Are retinal imaging and OCT scans part of a standard eye check-up?

Retinal imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) are advanced diagnostic tools used to capture detailed images of the retina and underlying structures of the eye. These technologies are incredibly useful in detecting early signs of serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment—often before any noticeable symptoms appear. As a patient, it’s important to know whether these tests are a standard part of your routine eye exam or only offered under specific circumstances or at an additional cost. Some clinics may include them automatically in comprehensive eye check-ups, while others may only recommend them based on your age, medical history, or symptoms. Asking this question helps you understand the thoroughness of the clinic’s diagnostic approach and ensures that you’re receiving preventive care that aligns with current best practices in ophthalmology.