What should I do prior to arriving?

You will need to complete the registration package that was emailed to you at the time of booking. If you did not receive the email or are unable to open the attached form, please contact us. You will also need to complete the Covid-19 screening tool on the day of your appointment. This will be emailed to you by 6am on the day of your scheduled appointment.

What should I expect when I arrive?

We will verify that you have completed your registration package and screening tool.

We aim to keep the clinic neat and tidy for everyone, for this reason we ask that you do not bring any food or drinks into the waiting room. You may be asked to remove your footwear to keep the floor dry and clean and prevent slips and falls. We appreciate your cooperation. 

What happens at my appointment?

You will begin with some routine diagnostic tests to help us get a better picture of your ocular health and vision. Your may also have your eyes dilated. These tests are completed by our ophthalmic assistants. Then you will see the ophthalmologist. Your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes, discuss with you any relevant finding and discuss treatment options with you. Then our friendly staff can help you make a follow up appointment if necessary.

Do you prescribe glasses or contact lenses? 

No. The focus of our practice is diagnosing and treating conditions related to the eye that require specialist treatment and/or monitoring. If you need to have a new prescription for glasses or contact lenses, please see your optometrist.

What should I bring with me?

Remember to bring your valid OHIP card with you to present at registration and a list of medications. Your pharmacist can provide you with a convenient printout at your request. 

We ask that you bring your glasses (even if you don’t always wear them!) to your appointment. If you wear contact lenses, we advise you to wear glasses to your appointment instead. If this is not possible, bring your case and solution with you as you may be asked to remove them for your visit.

You may also wish to bring sunglasses to be more comfortable if your eyes are dilated.

Will I have my eyes dilated?

In most cases, your eyes will be dilated during your first visit in order to have a better view of the optic nerve and retina. Your vision may be blurred as a result. The effect and duration of dilation varies from person to person.  It is recommended that you come with a driver, arrange transportation, and bring your sunglasses. 

How long should I expect my visit to take?

As a specialist, Dr. Al Karmi is dedicated to spending as much time as needed with each patient. Our practice also sees urgent cases and emergencies. We appreciate your courtesy when waiting becomes necessary and promise that you too will receive the time you need with the doctor. 

Ophthalmology visits routinely take 1-2 hours. This is related to initial wait time, additional time required to move through the phases of diagnostic tests and time for your eyes to dilate for proper examination. This can be surprising for new patients who expect a quick visit. We do our best to provide this information in advance to help new patients manage their expectations accordingly and be prepared for their visit.