By Sponsored Content

In Case of Emergency

In Case of Emergency

May 15, 2024 | 11:49 AM

Vision is one of our most treasured senses, so an eye injury or discomfort should have us seeking care as soon as possible. Not everyone, however, might think of going to their eye doctor.

“When our teeth hurt, we go to the dentist. When your eyes hurt, you should really be going to your optometrist,” said Dr. Mark Langer of IRIS Optometrists and Opticians.

Specialized care

Optometrists have education and experience that is specific to the eyes. A significant part of their education – and daily practice – is dealing with ocular disease and urgent care management. “We also have extensive technology and tools to accurately diagnose and treat various ocular conditions, with greater efficiency and confidence than a typical medical doctor has when dealing with eye conditions.” explained Dr. Langer.

No wait 

Balloon Ride Scam

Scammers again using Winter Carnival name to target victims

19h ago

Offences Spanned Multiple Countries

Kelowna RCMP investigation leads to arrest on luring, child pornography charges

22h ago

Vehicle Fires

Vehicles destroyed, apartment building damaged in fire

22h ago

The pain, discomfort, or vision problems associated with an eye emergency means getting care quickly can make a big difference.

“My policy at our clinic is if it’s an emergency for the patient, then we get them in,” stated Dr. Langer referring to the IRIS clinic in Vernon. “As long as I’m here, we’ll fit them in that day regardless of how busy we are.”

Coverage by MSP 

Cost shouldn’t be an obstacle to seeking specialized care quickly. For BC residents, eye emergencies have different coverage through BC Health than routine eye exams.

Dr. Langer said the exams for urgent care cases are either always partially or often completely billable to MSP.

What is an eye emergency

Symptoms to watch for:

• eye pain
• sudden vision loss or a change in vision
• irritation, itchiness, stinging, or burning
• discharge or other signs of an infection
• red or pink eyes
• a scratch or other trauma to the eye
• foreign object stuck in your eye
• Flashing lights or floaters in vision

Contact:

The IRIS clinic is in the Village Green Shopping Centre.

Call (250) 542-2239