FAQ
1. Do you prescribe glasses?
Yes, we do. We can give you a prescription for glasses that you can take to any optical shop. You can also get the prescription filled in Japan as the notations are the same. We do not have an optical shop.
2. Do you prescribe contact lenses?
Yes, we prescribe most soft contact lenses. We do not prescribe multifocal lenses. You can apply vision benefits from HMSA (EyeMed). Please call our office to inquire pricing.
3. Does Dr. Yamamoto perform surgeries?
Yes, she performs surgery to treat many eye conditions including cataracts and pterygium. She also performs laser procedures for treating glaucoma and retinal diseases. In addition, she performs intraocular injections to treat certain retinal conditions.
4. What type of advanced technology cataract surgeries does Dr. Yamamoto perform?
During a standard cataract surgery, Dr. Yamamoto places a monofocal lens implant based on the eye measurements taken in the clinic. Dr. Yamamoto also performs cataract surgeries using advanced technologies, such as a laser-assisted cataract surgery, implantations of multifocal and astigmatism-correcting lenses, and intraoperative real time measurements of the eye to accurately calculate the power of lens implants.
5. Can I see Dr. Yamamoto for a second opinion? Can I transfer care to Hawaii Eye Clinic?
Due to high demand for new patient appointments, we no longer take appointments for a second opinion only. If you'd like to transfer care, with your permission, we may request records from your previous doctor depending on your diagnosis after your initial visit.
6. Can I get referral from my doctor?
Yes. Please ask your doctor to fax us a referral letter to (808) 943-7001. We will message or call you to make a new patient appointment. Since Dr. Yamamoto is a specialist, some insurances such as HMSA Quest plans require a referral letter from your primary care doctor prior to your visits.
7. I’m a patient of Dr. Yamamoto, and would like to get second opinion from or transfer care to another doctor.
We think you should be absolutely comfortable with your diagnosis and the care that you are receiving from us. If you feel that you would like to get a second opinion or to transfer care, upon request, we will be happy to provide your medical records to take with you.
8. What should I do if I have an eye emergency during off hours?
If you are an established patient of our practice, please call physician’s exchange at 808-524-2575 and ask to speak with Dr. Yamamoto.
9. Can I have eye exams more than once a year under my insurance?
If you have any medical diagnosis, such as dry eyes, cataract, diabetes, glaucoma or glaucoma suspect, or have any visual symptoms like blurry vision or floaters, your service will be covered under your medical plan.
In this case, you can see us as many times as appropriate under your medical insurance. If you do not have any symptoms or medical diagnosis and you are seeing us for a glasses prescription only, it will be covered under your vision plan. Most vision plans allow only one visit per calendar year.
10. Do you take walk-in patients?
If you are experiencing an eye problem, please call our office, and we will be happy to accommodate you.
11. Do you see babies?
Unfortunately, we are not equipped to see small children under school-age. We can refer you to a pediatric ophthalmologist.
12. I do not have insurance coverage. Can I see the doctor or have surgeries?
Yes. Please call our office for an estimate for services.
13. What is an ophthalmologist?
Dr. Yamamoto is a board certified ophthalmologist who can provide all ranges of eye care from prescribing glasses to performing surgeries. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who has graduated from college and medical school, followed by completion of an internship year and 3 years of ophthalmology residency.
Dr. Yamamoto received additional training by completing a fellowship in medical retina. There are other eye care providers such as optometrists and opticians, but they are not physicians and cannot perform surgeries.