Question 1

What is a Doctor of Optometry?

Accepted Answer

According to the American Optometric Association, doctors of optometry are independent primary health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures — as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.

Optometrists examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders; systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes; and vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. They also test focusing and eye coordination, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy, and medicines to treat eye diseases.

As primary eye care providers, optometrists are an integral part of the health care team and an excellent source of referral to other health care professionals. The optometrist completes undergraduate education and four years at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete a residency.

Question 2

I've been told I have astigmatism. Can I still wear contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

In most cases the answer is "Yes!" There are several lenses on the market made especially for people with astigmatism — daily, monthly, and frequent-replacement options depending on your prescription. Color contact lenses for astigmatism are not available at our practice. Schedule a contact lens evaluation to find the best option for your eyes.

Question 3

How often should I have my eyes examined?

Accepted Answer

We recommend annual comprehensive eye exams for patients of all ages. Regular exams are especially important if you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, wear contact lenses, or have noticed recent vision changes. Children should have their first exam at 1 year old, then continue annually.

Question 4

Why do babies need their eyes examined?

Accepted Answer

It is important to identify eye conditions at an early stage so treatment can begin as soon as possible. Many eye conditions can be corrected if detected early. We recommend a baby's first comprehensive eye exam at 1 year old. During the exam, we test for nearsightedness, farsightedness, significant astigmatism, and eye health problems.

Question 5

What does "20/20" vision mean? How does it compare to "20/200" vision?

Accepted Answer

Vision is measured using a visual acuity chart placed at the equivalent of 20 feet from the patient. The first number is the testing distance; the second is the size of the smallest object you can discern. Someone with 20/200 vision sees at 20 feet what a person with 20/20 vision can see at 200 feet — meaning 20/20 identifies smaller detail at the same distance.

Question 6

I've been told I have perfect or "20/20" vision. Do I still need a regular eye exam?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many eye diseases begin without noticeable symptoms. A comprehensive exam can detect glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, retinal problems, and other conditions when treatment is most effective — often before vision is permanently affected.

Question 7

Why does the doctor need to dilate my pupils?

Accepted Answer

The pupil regulates how much light enters the eye. During a standard exam, only a portion of the internal eye is visible while pupils are in their natural state. Dilating drops temporarily enlarge the pupils so your doctor can evaluate more of the retina and optic nerve for conditions such as retinal tears, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic changes.

At Clear Sight Hawaii, Optos ultra-widefield imaging captures about 82% of the retina in one image — often without dilation. If we see something that requires further investigation, we may still need to dilate your eyes — but you can schedule that for another day if needed.

Question 8

Who should have their pupils dilated?

Accepted Answer

Anyone with risk factors — including diabetes, a family history of eye disease, significant nearsightedness, recent vision changes, head or eye trauma, or certain medications — may need dilation more often. We recommend annual comprehensive exams for all patients and will advise whether dilation or widefield imaging is appropriate at your visit. If we see something that requires further investigation, we may still need to dilate your eyes — but you can schedule that for another day if needed.

Question 9

What's the difference between a contact lens evaluation and a regular eye exam?

Accepted Answer

A contact lens evaluation is a separate appointment from a routine eye exam. It includes cornea measurements, tear film evaluation, trial lens fitting, and insertion/removal training when needed. A separate fee applies.

Question 10

Can my child wear contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

Readiness depends on maturity and motivation, not a specific age. We will discuss whether contacts are appropriate during your child's exam.

Question 11

Can I wear contact lenses if I need reading glasses?

Accepted Answer

Yes — multifocal contact lenses can reduce reliance on reading glasses for many patients, though they may not eliminate the need entirely. We specialize in multifocal contact lens evaluations.

Question 12

What insurance plans do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept HMSA, UHA, UnitedHealthcare, AlohaCare, VSP, EyeMed, Tricare, Tricare for Life, Tricare Retirees, Medicare, and Medicaid. Please call us to verify your specific plan before your appointment.

Question 13

Does Medicare cover eye exams?

Accepted Answer

Medicare Part B does not cover routine vision exams. It does cover medically necessary eye care — such as annual diabetic eye evaluations, glaucoma screening for high-risk patients, and treatment of eye disease.

Question 14

What if I don't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

We welcome self-pay patients. Please call us for current exam and contact lens evaluation pricing.

Question 15

How do I pay my bill?

Accepted Answer

You can pay online through our AkamaiPay portal or in person at the office.

Question 16

Do you accept walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

Walk-ins welcome — same-day availability depends on our schedule, but we always do our best. For routine eye exams, we recommend calling ahead or submitting a request online.

Question 17

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We're at 1131 Kuala Street, Pearl City, HI 96782 — Inside Pearl City Walmart. Plenty of free parking in the Walmart lot.

Question 18

What languages does your staff speak?

Accepted Answer

English, Ilocano, and some Tagalog at the front desk. Dr. Murakami speaks limited Japanese.

Question 19

Do you see children?

Accepted Answer

Yes — from infants (first exam at 1 year old) through seniors. We welcome families.

Question 20

What are your phone and fax numbers?

Accepted Answer

Phone: (808) 455-5650 | Fax: (808) 455-5625

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