Your First Appointment
Our goal is to make your visit to Duke Eye Center as easy and efficient as possible so that you can focus on what’s important -- your eye health. This page provides details on visiting our clinics, including where to park, how to prepare, and more.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Duke Health visitation guidelines are updated based on recommendations from the CDC and our infectious disease experts.
When You Arrive
What to Bring
If you are a new patient, please have your medical records sent to our office before your appointment, if possible. Your current provider can fax your medical records to us at 919-681-1013. You should also bring a list of medicines you or your child is currently taking, insurance information, and payment for co-pays and other out-of-pocket fees your insurance may not cover.
Parking
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time for parking, getting to the clinic, and checking in. Please park in the parking garage adjacent to the Eye Center. A covered walkway leads from the parking garage to the main building. Parking rates are $2 per hour, and valet parking is available for a flat fee of $9.
Checking In
When you arrive for your appointment, you will check in and register at the front desk, located on the main (second) floor. The check-in desk for surgery is on the third floor. You will be asked to show your photo ID and insurance cards and pay your required co-pay(s).
Appointment Length
Most appointments with Duke eye care specialists take one to three hours, but this can vary based on your specific eye care needs. For conditions related to retinal health, retinal genetics, glaucoma, corneal issue, cataracts, ocular surface disease, and complex pediatric issues, your appointment may last several hours.
Our appointments are comprehensive, meaning that they include exams, dilation, imaging, and more -- everything your doctor needs to diagnose your condition, create a treatment plan, and begin treatment promptly. We try to schedule all required tests during one visit to avoid multiple trips.
At Your Appointment
A typical first appointment at the Eye Center may involve some or all of the following steps:
- A specialty trained ophthalmic technician will review your medical history and medications and will perform testing based on your condition.
- Depending on the reason for your appointment, your eyes may be dilated. This can take up to 45 minutes in some cases.
- You will have eye imaging tests. The results will help your eye doctor diagnose, treat, or determine changes in your condition.
- You may speak with a medical resident or fellow pursuing specialty training in ophthalmology before you see your doctor.
- Your eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist) will perform a detailed evaluation. They will talk with you about your condition and treatment plan.
- If surgery is needed, you will meet with a surgery coordinator to schedule surgery and review insurance coverage and any payments not covered by insurance. Financial counselors are available to discuss payment options.
If have questions about your visit, call 919-681-3937. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call 919-681-3937.