Risk Management

Contact Lens Expired Prescription (Sample Letter)

LETTER TO A PATIENT REQUESTING MEDICAL RECORD WHICH CONTAINS EXPIRED CONTACT LENS PRESCRIPTION

(Physician’s Letterhead)

(date)

Dear (Patient):

You have provided me with a signed, written request for a copy of your medical record. Your medical record contains specifications of contact lenses based on a previous examination and contact lens fitting. The contact lens specifications in your records were valid at the time I prescribed your contact lenses. However, a comprehensive ophthalmic examination is necessary prior to obtaining new lenses. Additional testing and diagnostic lens fitting evaluation is necessary to determine your new contact lens prescription. Follow-up exams are necessary because lens design modifications may be needed before I can arrive at a final contact lens prescription.

In addition, there are eye conditions that may have developed since your last examination that may keep you from wearing contact lenses. Some of the conditions that might keep you from wearing contact lenses are: frequent eye infections; severe allergies; and dry eye (improper tear film). An ophthalmologist is the physician specialist who can diagnose and treat conditions that may prevent optimal contact lens wear.

There are also certain environmental conditions or personal practices that may have changed since your last examination that may prevent you from wearing contact lenses, such as: a work environment that is very dusty or dirty or your improper handling and care of the lenses. An important aspect of contact lens wear is properly wearing, disinfecting, and cleaning the lenses. Even if you have worn contact lenses before, I believe it is important for my office to reevaluate your proper handling and care of the lenses. We can also advise you regarding the use of appropriate cosmetics. Improper use of cosmetics can lead to eye irritation as well as infection.

Please call my office if you would like to schedule an appointment. The health of your eyes is our main concern and should be yours.

Sincerely,

                                                                        , M.D.