At VBA, we strive to make sure our members have a pleasant and positive experience when visiting their eye care provider. That’s why we asked Chad Cygnarowicz, our Underwriting Manager and certified optician, to explain the dispensing process and what members should expect.
VBA: Thanks for taking the time to tell us about dispensing, Chad! So, let’s cut right to the chase…what exactly is the dispensing process?
Chad: The dispensing process begins the moment the completed eyewear arrives to the optical dispensary from the lab. It’s not as simple as unpacking them and handing them over; there are many important stages, which includes a series of verifications that opticians should check before sending you on your way. There’s an extensive inspection process and delivery (dispensing) technique.
VBA: As an optician, you mentioned that this is one of your favorite parts of the process. Why’s that?
Chad: That’s true; it is one of my favorite parts of the process because I feel it is the most important part. As an optician for over 14 years, I take it very seriously. Dispensing is the moment of truth! You go through the process of setting up an appointment, having your vision care exam and discussing your lens and frame options with your eye doctor and optician. Then you spend a significant amount of time trying on frames until you pick the perfect pair(s). Dispensing is the big reveal. Are you happy and confident in your purchase? Do the frames fit properly? Did we uncover your needs enough to make the right lens selection for you? Is your prescription correct and functioning for you the way that you would like? There’s a lot to check!
VBA: Sounds like it’s certainly an important process. Can you give us some more detail?
Chad: Sure. Typically, before you are even notified that your eyewear is available for pickup, the optician will have a “check-list” of things that they’ll inspect. This will include an extensive verification process to ensure what was ordered is what was received.
You may not realize it, but the optician will have performed a pre-adjustment on the frame to fit your face properly before the measurements were taken to ensure accurate results. The optician will verify that this pre-adjustment has not been skewed at the lab or during the shipping and handling process. It will be put back into adjustment to ensure that the frame fits like a glove when you put them on.
The measurements that were taken during the fitting need to be confirmed. The lens options may arrive from the lab with markings or stickers that show how the lens should align with the eye, which the optician should also confirm by having you try on the frame before removing the markings.
The optician will ask for the glasses to be put on to evaluate the initial feel. Although, a pre-fit was most likely performed, they will check that the nose pads rest comfortably. They should also be sure that the temples aren’t skewed and that there isn’t a large gap between the head and the frame. Lastly, the optician should ensure that the tilt of the frame front is situated appropriately for the lens options ordered.
It may take several adjustments to get the glasses to fit just right.
Most importantly, the optician should double-check that you can see properly and address any questions or concerns that you may have.
VBA: Wow! There’s a lot that goes into the dispensing process. Thanks for breaking that down for us. Anything else members should know?
Chad: After the glasses are adjusted, the optician may go over cleaning and care procedure. They might tell you what products are safe to use and clarify any warranties or guarantees. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially if this is your first pair of prescription eyewear or if you are being introduced to a new product.
Obviously, each eye-care professional has his or her own procedure, so this process will vary from office to office. But in general, this is what members will experience when picking up their glasses.
VBA: Great! This has been so helpful, Chad.
As noted, the steps Chad described are not set in stone. If you have questions about the dispensing processes, contact your eye care provider.
