Phrases and vocabulary for the eye test, choosing frames, health insurance subsidies, and questions at the optician or eye doctor.
You can have an eye test at the eye doctor (covered by insurance with a referral) or directly at the optician. The eye doctor's prescription is valid for twelve months.
Statutory health insurance pays subsidies for glasses only at certain prescription strengths or for children. Ask the optician beforehand what is reimbursed.
If you buy progressive lenses, allow one to two weeks for adjustment. Anyone having trouble during this time can go back to the optician and have the grinding values corrected.
You notice your vision has worsened and go to the optician.
I think my prescription strength has changed. Can you do an eye test?
Do I need a prescription from the eye doctor for that?
You want to find a suitable frame.
I am looking for a lightweight frame that suits my face. Can you recommend something?
Are there models subsidised by the health insurer?
You pick up your finished glasses and they do not quite fit right.
The glasses do not sit quite right. Could you please adjust them?
What do I do if the lenses are giving me headaches?
Ask: Will my health insurer cover all or part of the costs for these glasses? The optician or the insurer can clarify that directly.
The eye doctor is a medical specialist who makes medical diagnoses, for example for eye diseases. The optician carries out eye tests and makes glasses, but is not a doctor.
Say: The glasses do not fit properly. They press on the bridge of my nose or keep slipping. Could you please adjust them? This is a completely normal customer request at the optician.