Many agencies provide a loaner program so individuals can borrow aids to try them out. After the vision exam, the individual may be referred to other professionals who work with visually impaired persons, such as mobility instructors. Though there are some ophthalmologists that specialize in low vision, most low vision specialists are optometrists. Effective low vision rehabilitation requires expertise and technology for the thorough evaluation of visual function as well as full access to available optical and electronic low vision devices. Additionally, the Center offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including counseling and instruction in independent living and safe travel skills, that is not offered by ophthalmologists or optometrists.
Charges vary depending on who is providing the services and their level of expertise.
Low vision services are offered by private doctors and by non-profit agencies. The non-profit Center for the Partially Sighted, staffed by highly trained specialists, charges for some services while others are offered for free. Fees can, however, be adjusted on a sliding scale, based on ability to pay. Medicare and Medi-Cal may cover a portion of this optometric exam and some of the psychological services provided by the Center. Remaining fees can be placed on a sliding scale, based on ability to pay.