Allison Powell

When hiring an optometrist, experience matters more than credentials alone. Look for someone who performs retinal imaging and tonometry as standard—not as add-ons. They should test your eyes in different lighting conditions and ask detailed questions about your daily routine before prescribing. A good optometrist will explain *why* they're recommending a particular lens type or coating, not just sell you the most expensive option. They'll spend time ensuring your frames fit properly and that your lenses are correctly positioned; a poor fit renders even an accurate prescription uncomfortable. Check whether they stock their own frames or work with external dispensaries—transparency about this matters. They should also discuss alternatives: sometimes contact lenses work better than glasses; sometimes multifocals aren't necessary yet. Most importantly, they'll establish a baseline during your first visit and track changes over time. Regular monitoring—not just when your vision noticeably deteriorates—catches conditions like glaucoma early. Avoid practitioners who rush through tests or pressure you into unnecessary upgrades.