In POB’s low vision rehabilitation program, individuals with chronic vision loss receive customized care and guidance from our low vision optometrists. Working closely with these specialists, patients learn to adapt to their condition and develop compensatory strategies to maintain their independence, safety and quality of life.
What is low vision rehabilitation and why might I need it?
Low vision rehabilitation helps determine the best tools and techniques to meet your goals. This typically involves eye exams and the use of optical and non-optical visual aids or adaptations. It also includes education and counseling about resources such as state rehabilitation agencies, occupational therapy, support groups, etc.
Low vision rehabilitation does not replace any medical management of your eye condition. Most patients who undergo low vision rehabilitation typically continue to receive medical treatments for their eye conditions whenever possible.
How is low vision rehabilitation different from medical treatment?
Low vision rehabilitation is not a substitute for ongoing medical treatment; it is intended to help you adapt to your vision loss. It will not cure or control whatever eye condition or disease that caused your vision loss, so maintaining regular appointments with your normal provider is very important. Your low vision specialist and medical provider will be able to work as a team to help ensure both your eye health and vision function are the best they can be.
An examination with a low vision specialist is typically longer than an exam with your managing eye care provider. Examinations are scheduled to be at least one hour, and follow-up visits may be necessary. While Medicare and most medical insurances can be billed for the examination itself, not all aspects of the examination will be covered.
Is a referral required for low vision rehabilitation?
Referrals are recommended. Any healthcare provider can refer a patient for low vision rehabilitation. A patient can also ask their eye care provider if a referral is appropriate. Contact us at (703) 652-7803 for more information or to make an appointment for low vision rehabilitation.
Do you accept Medicare or other medical insurance?
While Medicare and most medical insurances can be billed for the examination itself, not all aspects of the examination will be covered. Contact us at (703) 652-7803 for more information.
Locations
415 2nd Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
4942 St. Elmo Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814
105 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
For more information or to make an appointment, contact:
(703) 652-7803
info@lowvisionservices.org
Services made possible, in part, through the generosity of the Julius Fleischman Foundation, Virginia Lions Eye Institute Foundation, and District 24-A Lions Club.
