Frequently Asked Questions
Please select the appropriate topic from the two categories:
About My Visit
Billing / Financial
Cannot find the answer to your question? E-mail Us
About My Visit
Can I be seen today or before the next available appointment?
When you speak to a patient care representative at 713-798-6100, they will be happy to assist you with any urgent or emergency situation. We will work diligently with you to accommodate all of your scheduling needs.
Will you confirm my appointment?
Yes. A patient care representative will contact you to confirm your appointment two days prior to your appointment date.
What doctor would you recommend?
Each of the Alkek Eye Center physicians is qualified to treat a broad range of ophthalmic conditions. Based on your eye problem, your appointment will be with a specialist who best meets your needs.
How can I find out more information about my physician?
The easiest way would be to look up your doctor from Our Physicians web page.
May I speak to the doctor or technician?
Alkek Eye Center physicians and technicians maintain a full patient care schedule. A patient care representative can be reached at 713-798-6100. He/she will be happy to deliver your message to the appropriate physician or technician who will then take steps to take care of your request.
How do I refill a prescription?
For your convenience, you may complete an on-line prescription refill request form for prescription refills or, contact a patient care representative at 713-798-6100.
Is there a pharmacy in the building? An optical shop?
Alkek Eye Center does not have a pharmacy or an optical shop as a part of our facility, however, Scurlock Tower Pharmacy and Christy Optical are both located in Scurlock Tower 6560 Fannin, 2nd floor crosswalk. Scurlock Tower Pharmacy may be reached by calling 713-790-6350. Christy Optical may be reached by calling 713-790-1085 or christyopt@aol.com
How long will my appointment last?
Usually a patient's visit can range from 1-3 hours. Our physicians and technical staff take extra care in making sure all of your questions and eye care needs are met.
Does Alkek Eye Center have a program to assist low-income patients?
There are several organizations whose mission is to provide ophthalmic care for those patients who qualify for these programs. Please refer to one of the following organizations:
- The American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Ben Taub General Hospital
- Lighthouse in Houston
- Texas Commission for the Blind
Where are you located?
All of our clinics are located in the Texas Medical Center, near Hermann Park, in Houston, Texas. To obtain driving instructions, please visit our "Directions/ Find Us" section.
How much is parking? Will you pay for my parking?
Parking rates vary at each clinic location. To find out more information on parking, fees and locations, please view our "Directions/ Find Us" section.
Do you provide transportation?
To learn about the various amenities we provide or amenities in the local area, visit the "amenities" section in the "Patient Care" section to your left. View the amenities page.
What if I have a problem during the night or on the weekend?
Alkek Eye Center physicians are available to address your eye care needs 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Please call 713-798-6100 and the answering service will contact the physician on-call.
Will I receive a prescription for contact lenses or glasses with my general eye exam?
A general or comprehensive medical eye examination is designed to reveal both existing and potential eye problems, even in the absence of specific symptoms. The examination consists of a patient history, examination and testing to assess the functional behavior, anatomic status of the eye and the related structures. The physician will evaluate the findings and diagnose any potential abnormalities or diseases. The components of a contact lens exam are used to determine the correct refractive error for the contact lens and to ensure proper fitting. The appointment will also provide instructions on how to wear and care for your contact lenses. The doctor will then select the appropriate treatment for you. If eyeglasses or contact lenses are needed, a prescription will be given for an additional fee. If you know in advance that you are interested in contact lenses, please inform the patient care representative so that an appointment will be made for you to be seen when you are here for your general eye exam.
What diagnostic services does your clinic provide?
Specific screening tests include:
Retinal Photography
- Flourescein Angiography
- Anterior Segment Photography
- Slit - Lamp Photography
- Gonio Photography
- Specular Microscopy and Endothelial Cell Counts
- Diagnostic A - Scan Ultrasound
- B - Scan Ultrasound
- Biometry with IOL Calculations
- Color Vision Testing
- Low Vision
- Visual Fields
Billing / Financial
What is the cost of an initial visit?
Alkek Eye Center physicians are among the most renowned doctors worldwide. The cost of your visit will depend on your diagnosis, the service requested by your referring doctor and the service provided by your treating physician.
Who do I call if I don't understand my bill?
For your convenience, you may e-mail the Billing Department with your question or call a patient account representative. Patient account representatives can be reached at 713-798-6100.
Does Alkek Eye Center participate with my insurance plan?
Alkek Eye Center participates in several different insurance plans. Please refer to our financial policy or contact your insurance carrier to determine your benefits.
If I see a physician and a contact lens technician, is that considered two office visits with two co-pays?
This depends on your insurance coverage. Alkek Eye Center recommends that all patients consult with their insurance carrier to determine your covered benefits. All patients will be asked to pay for any services that are not covered by their insurance plan.
Do I need a referral from my primary care physician?
A referral or an authorization number is needed if you are a participant of a managed care insurance plan. Managed care plans include HMO's, EPO's and POS's. If your doctor has referred you to Alkek Eye Center, be sure to ask if a referral name or number is needed. If you are uncertain of the type of insurance plan you currently have or if a referral or authorization is needed, contact your insurance carrier prior to your visit. Patients are primarily responsible for obtaining referrals.
Will Alkek Eye Center send my clinic bill to my insurance company(ies)?
We will gladly file your bill with any insurance company(ies) for those services that are a covered benefit with your insurance plan.
How long will it take to settle my balance with the insurance company?
Generally, it takes from 60 to 90 days to obtain payment from an insurance carrier. We will work with the carrier for up to 90 days to resolve your bill. If it has not been resolved in that time, the bill becomes your responsibility.
What methods of payment do you offer?
Alkek Eye Center accepts VISA, Mastercard, American Express, personal checks, travelers checks and cash.