1.  Do you make a full series of near-point visual tests?  If the answer is "no" or anything that indicates that a doctor does not feel these tests are important, there is no need to continue the questions.  If the answer is vague or qualified, the next question is very important.

2.  Do you give academically-related visual perception tests?  If the answer is "no" or if you are asked what you mean, the questioning need continue no further.  Again, if the answer is vague, hesitant, or qualified, the next question becomes even more important.

3.  Do you provide vision care and vision therapy in your office for children who are having learning problems?  If the answer is "no" there is no need for further questioning unless the doctor can refer you to a colleague who does provide this very important care.  A visual performance examination, no matter how detailed and complete, is insufficient.  The doctor must do something about the visual problems that have been identified.  In almost every instance where there is an interfering problem, there must be specific and individualized clinical care toward the solution.  If the answer is "yes", then the next four questions become pertinent.

4.  What is the length of time a child is in vision therapy?  If a SPECIFIC period of time is given there is no need to go any further.  The exact length of a treatment program CANNOT be pre-determined.  No two children are alike; they will progress through the program at different speeds.  Factors such as the severity of visual malfunction, the child's systems ability to accept the new functional behavior, and the child's (and family's) dedication to the program will all affect the program length.

5.  What is the patient-to-professional ratio in vision therapy?  Again, if a specific answer is given, there is probably no need to continue.  Some children work better in a group situation and some will require one-on-one training.

6.  Can we get a written report that all adults concerned can understand and apply to assist this child?  If the answer is "no" or "I do not have time for written reports" or even "only in the most critical cases", this clinician is probably too busy to give the child the full attention needed.  The written report need not be long or loaded with technical terms.  It is VERY IMPORTANT that a concise explanation of the visual problem is provided to aid in communication among all concerned.  This report should be added to the child's school file.  If the answer is "yes", the report should be expected within a reasonable time.  All concerned should feel free to call the doctor if there are any questions or any further information is necessary in assisting the child in his performance.

7.  Will you see this child again during the school year to ascertain his progress?  If the answer is "no", the entire vision care program breaks down as a re-examination and re-evaluation is essential.  There must be reasonable assurance that the child is acquiring the functional and developmental visual performance skills he must have for his ultimate performance in the classroom.