Yes, you can ask for your eye prescription. An eye prescription is a medical document detailing the specific vision correction requirements determined during a refractive eye examination. You have a legal right to this information, allowing you to obtain corrective lenses wherever you choose.
The Federal Rules Protecting Your Prescription Rights
The legal foundation guaranteeing a patient’s right to their prescription is established by federal oversight. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the Eyeglass Rule and the Contact Lens Rule, which ensure consumers have freedom of choice in purchasing corrective eyewear.
These rules mandate that eye care providers must automatically give you a copy of your prescription immediately after the exam, even if you do not request it. This requirement prevents the provider from delaying the release or requiring you to come back later. Providers are also prohibited from requiring you to purchase eyeglasses or contact lenses from their office to receive your prescription.
The rules state that the provider cannot charge an extra fee solely for the prescription itself or condition its release on signing any liability waiver. They must furnish this document free of charge, ensuring you have the ability to shop around and compare prices from different retailers. The provider must also obtain a confirmation from you that you received the prescription, a measure designed to help the FTC monitor compliance.
Key Differences Between Eyeglass and Contact Lens Prescriptions
Eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions are not interchangeable because they sit differently on the eye. An eyeglass prescription primarily includes the Sphere (SPH) to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness, the Cylinder (CYL) for astigmatism, and the Axis, which indicates the orientation of the astigmatism correction. Eyeglasses sit approximately 12 millimeters away from the eye, which affects the power needed for stronger prescriptions.
A contact lens prescription requires several additional measurements because the lens rests directly on the cornea. This prescription must specify the Base Curve (BC), which is the curvature of the lens that matches the shape of your eye for a proper fit. It also includes the Diameter (DIA), which defines the width of the lens to ensure adequate corneal coverage and comfort.
A contact lens prescription must also specify the exact Brand and Material of the lens, as different manufacturers use varying materials. Since contact lenses are considered medical devices that require a precise fit, their prescriptions typically have stricter expiration dates, often limited to one year. This shorter window ensures that your eye health is regularly assessed and that the lens fit remains suitable.
Steps to Take If a Provider Withholds Your Prescription
If an eye care provider violates federal law by refusing to release your prescription, you have formal recourse. The first step is to submit a written request to the provider or the office manager, referencing your legal right under the applicable federal rules. This creates a paper trail and may prompt the office to comply without further action.
Should the provider continue to withhold the prescription, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which enforces both the Eyeglass Rule and the Contact Lens Rule. You may also file a complaint with the state licensing board that regulates optometrists or ophthalmologists, as withholding a prescription is often a violation of professional conduct rules. The FTC can issue warning letters and impose civil penalties up to tens of thousands of dollars per violation.