Preparing For Your Appointment

You have been referred for a glaucoma or cataract consultation because you may have a problem with your eyes that requires special knowledge, testing and treatment. This brochure answers questions about Glaucoma Center of Michigan and what you can expect during your visit. If you have additional questions, please call us at (248) 356-0098.

The Glaucoma Center of Michigan (GCM) is the first and only facility in Michigan dedicated exclusively to the evaluation and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts. We have over 80 cumulative years of experience in providing the highest quality of care for complex glaucoma and cataract problems.

What if You Need to Reschedule Your Appointment?

For the convenience of our other patients, we would appreciate 24-hours notice of your cancellation. We generally can reschedule your appointment within a few days.

What Can You Expect During Your Visit?

You will first be asked to complete several forms providing us basic information about you, your eyes, any medical problems, and your insurance coverage. In addition to the name of the eye doctor who referred you to us, we would like the name, address and phone number of your family or general medical doctor. Our staff will assist you in completing the forms if necessary.

When your registration has been completed, you will be directed from our reception area to our examination area. One of our ophthalmic technicians will review the reason for your consultation and take some preliminary measurements of your eyes and your eyesight. Then you will see the doctor, who will evaluate your eyes. Following that, you will have a visual field test which checks your peripheral vision. The technicians may instill eye drops to dilate your pupils. Dilation of the pupils is usually necessary in order to completely examine your eyes. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes for your pupils to fully dilate after the drops have been given.

When your pupils are fully dilated, you will again be examined by the doctor. Do not hesitate to ask questions about your eye condition or its treatment. Depending upon the nature of your problem, additional tests will be performed the same day as your consultation. A complete report of your consultation and any test results are sent to both your eye doctor and general medical doctor.

How Long Should Your Consultation Last?

The average consultation requires 2 to 3 hours. If special testing or scheduling of surgery is required, you can expect to spend an additional hour at our facility. We make every effort to follow closely to our patients’ scheduled times. Therefore, we ask that you arrive by your scheduled appointment time, and call us if you will be unusually delayed.

What Should You Bring With You For Your Visit?

• Your eyeglasses.
• A list of medications that you take (including eye drops).
• The name and address of your referring eye doctor.
• The name, address and phone number of your general medical or family doctor.
• Information on your insurance coverage or HMO/PPO referral forms.
• Someone to drive you home after your appointment.
• Remember, your appointment will last 2 to 3 hours.

Will You Able to Drive After Your Eyes Are Dilated?

Dilating your pupils with eye drops does cause temporary blurring of vision and increased light sensitivity. You may be more comfortable having someone accompany you to the office so that he or she can drive you home. The major effect of the eye drops generally wears off after 3 to 4 hours. We suggest you bring sunglasses.