tinyverbose t1_isr9cyy wrote on October 18, 2022 at 2:47 AM

Reply to comment by skeptivore in A 'game-changer' for millions of Americans: You can now buy hearing aids over the counter by zDraxi

I fully support easier access to glasses, but prescriptions ensure that people get the proper correction for their visual needs, which needs to be done on a custom basis. There’s an argument to be made for having prescriptions last longer, but eye exams also provide valuable insight into the health of a persons eyes beyond their need for glasses. IMO the problem here (as with many healthcare issues in the US) is a lack of access and coverage for important healthcare services.

Skyblacker t1_isrbxik wrote on October 18, 2022 at 3:09 AM

I think the above comment refers to websites like Zenni. The glasses are a fraction of the price, but you still need a prescription from an in person eye exam that's like $40.

tinyverbose t1_isrgkjp wrote on October 18, 2022 at 3:48 AM

yes, the prescription is what allows the lenses to be custom to your vision

ScientistNo906 t1_isrm1fu wrote on October 18, 2022 at 4:42 AM

Didn't have a good experience with Zenni, lens distorted my vision. Sent them back, they sent me another pair with same distortion. Tossed them.

tinyverbose t1_isrq54a wrote on October 18, 2022 at 5:29 AM

this is basically the gamble anyone takes when ordering from zenni/other online retailers - the measurements and adjustments that the opticians make at the eye doctors office create a custom fit for your glasses. When you order a pair online, a lot of this process can’t be performed to the same standard. For most people with low/relatively normal prescriptions, this doesn’t really make much of a difference. But for those with larger amounts of refractive error, small adjustments can make a big difference and it can be hard to get that right online.

[deleted] t1_istq5m4 wrote on October 18, 2022 at 5:09 PM

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Cranberry_Glade t1_issxn4x wrote on October 18, 2022 at 1:57 PM

Agreed. There's no way I could just walk in and get OTC glasses, with my screwy prescription. Glasses have been, somewhat least, more affordable and better covered by insurance than hearing aids have been. You can't just skimp in and buy something off the rack and hope you'd be able to see.