Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve put together a list of questions we often receive. If you have a question and don’t see an answer here or would like more information on anything, please feel free to give us a call at (970) 214-8175 or send us an email info@chlildrensnoco.com.
Do you take Medicaid?
Yes! We are happily accepting new Medicaid patients. Not only is the exam covered but all of our over 200 children’s frames, if applicable, are covered as well.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! We are accepting new patients and have immediate availability.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Graeber?
No. We often get referrals but it is not necessary to have one to book an appointment with us.
Should I take my child to a pediatric specialist?
A pediatric specialist can be seen for anything eye related in children from basic exams to complex eye diseases. If you have been referred by your primary care physician or pediatrician, you should see a specialist. If your child is non-verbal, below school aged, autistic, disabled, or if there are any concerns beyond basic vision correction such as eye turns, a lazy eye, crossed eyes or eyes that turn outward, they should be seen by a pediatric specialist.
Do you take vision insurance?
We do not accept any vision plans, however, we are “in-network” with nearly every commercial and state health insurance plan. You can see a list here.
Often, vision plans will give “out of network” benefits that may be applicable for the exam and / or glasses from our optical shop. We are happy to help you with claim submission if you would like.
How does insurance billing work?
For families with health insurance where we are “in-network” we will take two payments at the time of service. The first is the ‘co-payment’ if that applies to the specific plan. The second is a ‘refraction fee’ if one was performed during the appointment.
The full bill is then sent to the health insurance company. Within 30 days the charges will be processed and payment (or non-payment) will be sent directly to us. If your plan has a deductible that has not been met or co-insurance that is meant to cover part of the bill, you will receive a statement from us, typically within 45 days of the appointment (this depends totally on the insurance company).
If the insurance company paid for the refraction we refund the charge that was taken at the time of service.
What does an exam cost?
Most visits to our office have both exams and testing with different medical codes. We are happy to provide you an estimate at any time – please call (970) 214-8175 and ask for Mike.
How young of children do you see? When should I start eye exams on my child?
Dr. Graeber is trained and qualified to perform exams on children within a few hours of life. Additionally, she is trained and qualified to treat adults with strabismus / double vision (and everything in between). We tell parents to bring their child in for an exam if they have any eye related concerns (i.e. an eye turn) or if they are referred by their pediatrician / primary care physician / school nurse or physical therapist (typically because of a failed vision screening or if a child is having difficulty seeing in school).
