Low Vision Services
What is Low Vision?
Low vision is trouble seeing and performing activities of daily living even with correction, surgery, or medications. If you have low vision, you can learn techniques to help you achieve your goals and perform activities of daily living using the vision
you have.
What is a low vision exam?
This is a specialized eye exam that checks your visual function and addresses your vision goals. The exam focuses on ways to help you achieve your visual goals and improve daily activities and independence by exploring devices and techniques that may help such as magnification, lighting, filters, contrast, technology, and adaptive devices.
Does a low vision exam check the health of the eye?
No, it only assesses your visual function. You must continue to see your regular eye doctor(s) for eye health examinations. Low vision evaluations require an eye health examination prior to the appointment.
Does insurance cover low vision services?
Low vision examination coverage depends on your medical insurance; most insurances are accepted. Devices available through the InSights shop are not typically covered
by insurance.
Scheduling a low vision exam
If your eye doctor recommends a low vision examination or you believe you would benefit from one, ask your doctor to place a referral to Goodwill Vision Enterprises (formerly ABVI) for a low vision exam with a Flaum Eye Institute Low Vision specialist.
Note: the referral process can take a few weeks
Low vision scheduling process.
■ Referrals are sent to Goodwill Vision, who will contact you to schedule a phone call to discuss your goals and get a brief visual/medical history.
■ You can then be scheduled for a low vision examination.
■ After the exam, you can meet with the team at Goodwill Vision Enterprises for further information and support.
■ You can browse the InSight Shop to explore tools and devices that may be helpful.
■ You may return for classes or support group meetings.
■ If your doctor determines that you are legally blind, you may qualify for additional services and support.
Flaum Low Vision Clinic
(585) 602-1521
Goodwill Vision Enterprises
(585) 697-5736
500 S. Clinton Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620
Our low vision specialists are a team of optometrists specifically trained in this discipline. Upon referral, they provide patients with comprehensive vision exams resulting in a complete profile of a patient’s visual abilities. Together with Goodwill vision therapists, patients receive training, adaptive technology, and counseling to maximize their ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Our low vision team includes:
Optometry Staff
Jennifer Krech, OD
Director
View Dr. Krech's Bio
Senior Instructor of Clinical Ophthalmology
Doctor Paul Caito, OD
Low Vision Specialist
View Dr. Caito's Bio
Scheduling Low Vision Exams
Low vision exams are available only by the referral of an eye doctor and with express permission from Goodwill Vision Services. Low vision exams should not be confused with medical therapy to treat ongoing eye disease. Patients should continue seeing their referring eye care team for these services to preserve their vision.
For more information about receiving a referral for a low vision exam, please contact Goodwill Vision Services at 1-888-859-1606. Flaum Eye Institute cannot independently schedule your low vision appointment.