Family physicians are often the most knowledgeable about specialists in the area and can facilitate transfer of records, set up appointments, etc. Another option might be to seek a referral from an academic medical center in your area. Look for these hospitals in the phone directory under teaching hospitals. When choosing a specialist, check to see if he or she is certified. Certification is not required for a physician to practice, however, a board-certified physician has taken a written exam, thereby demonstrating a knowledge at least equal to other specialists in that field.
Many hospitals now have physician referral number.
If you do not live near a larger hospital, call the nearest one and ask for a referral to a physician practicing in your area. Low-vision clinics are becoming increasingly common so chances are good you can find one in or near your community. In Columbia there is one at the Mason Eye Insitute at the Health Sciences Center. I would like to know about the effect of benzocaine on the eye. According to our references, benzocaine is not to be used in the eye.