The American Optometric Association (AOA) urged patients with emergency eye care needs to get in touch with their local optometrist prior to seeking treatment in hospital emergency rooms. Doing so not only eases the burden on emergency departments but also helps prevent the spread of illness.

What Is Considered an Eye Emergency?

Most eye-related conditions can be treated in an outpatient optometry office or clinic. Emergency eye care includes urgent clinical advice or intervention for eye injuries and conditions such as:

• A foreign object in the eye
• Chemical burns
• A sudden change in vision
• Flashes and floaters (which might suggest a retinal detachment)
• Contact lens discomfort
• Red eyes or any other problems that may impact daily activities

Prioritizing Your Eye Care Needs

During times of high demand on healthcare systems, we go above and beyond to ensure that people receive the emergency eye care they need. Patients should first contact Dayton Optometric Center for guidance and potential treatment. Our eye doctor can assess the level of care needed — whether telehealth or an in-person visit.

Research has shown that treating eye emergencies at eye doctors' offices can potentially divert over a million patients away from emergency rooms per year.

While we schedule routine appointments in advance, Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio continues to provide emergency care for those who need it. Call us at (937) 228-2020.