Questions about Insurance and Appointments

Is Dr. Roat accepting new patients? How can I make an appointment?

Yes! Appointments can be made by calling 610-645-5755 and telling us whether you would like to schedule a routine eye exam (vision exam, no ocular symptoms) or an appointment for an eye problem (pain, redness, floaters, etc).


Do I need a referral to see Dr. Roat?

Patients can make an appointment to be seen on their own. Some insurances require referrals from Primary Care physicians to have the exam be a covered service. If you are unsure whether or not you need a referral, please contact your insurance company.


What types of insurance does Dr. Roat accept?

Dr. Roat accepts most insurances. If you have an unusual insurance or are unsure, please contact your insurance company to confirm.


Does Dr. Roat accept Medicare and Medicaid?

Dr. Roat accepts Medicare but not Medicaid.


Will my vision coverage insurance pay for my exam with Dr. Roat?

Yes, if your exam is a routine vision exam and you have no eye problems or symptoms, we will bill your vision insurance. If there are eye problems or symptoms then we will bill your medical insurance. For example, if you have diabetes or other systemic illnesses, floaters or an eye infection, your exam will be billed to your medical insurance.


Will my health insurance cover my visit if I was referred by my family doctor for a specific medical issue with my eyes?

Yes, that would be covered by your regular medical insurance. Please ask your Primary Care physician for a referral if your insurance requires one.


What are Dr. Roat's payment options?

Dr. Roat accepts cash, checks, Visa, or Mastercard.


Questions about Dr. Roat

What does Dr. Roat specialize in?

Dr. Roat is an ophthalmologist with experience in caring for patients with all forms of eye disease. He has additional training and expertise in cornea, dry eyes, allergies, and infections. He is also experienced in cataract surgery and corneal transplantation surgery.


Does Dr. Roat see adults and children?

Dr. Roat sees patients ages 12 and older.


Does Dr. Roat perform surgery? Where?

Yes, Dr. Roat performs surgery at both Lankenau and Riddle Hospitals, as well as at Wills Eye Hospital.


Does Dr. Roat see patients with contact lenses?

Although Dr. Roat takes care of infections, allergies, and other issues stemming from contact lenses, he does not prescribe new contact lenses or renew prescriptions.


Does Dr. Roat have an optical shop?

No, but there are several excellent optical shops nearby.


What does it mean to be Board Certified?

To become board certified, an ophthalmologist must pass several days of challenging, comprehensive written and oral exams.  In 1987, Dr. Roat became Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, placing in the top 3%.  In addition, he placed in the top 2% on the exam of the National Board of Medical Examiners of the United States of America, which is used to grant a medical license to doctors.  


Questions about our offices

What's the parking like at the office? 

Both Riddle and Lankenau Hospitals have paid parking garages. There is limited free parking at Riddle Hospital. 


Are the offices handicap accessible?

Both offices are handicap accessible.


Questions about Eye Exams

How often should I have an eye exam?

Most patients who have no eye problems have an eye exam every other year up until age 60, then once a year. Some eye conditions require more frequent visits.


Do I need an eye exam if my vision is fine?

It is important to have your eyes screened for eye conditions regularly. Additionally, there are some eye diseases that present no early symptoms, such as glaucoma, that can be discovered during an eye exam.