FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions for Existing Patients

A guide to your evolving care experience with Dr. Folkers

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Is Dr. Folkers retiring?

No. He’s continuing to provide care—just in a new format that allows for deeper focus and more personalized visual optimization.

Can I still see Dr. Dave and get his help?

Yes. Dr. Folkers will continue to help with all things VISION:

  • Optimize your eye measurements using THE SILICON VALLEY REFRACTION™, a proprietary method that goes far beyond traditional refraction.

  • Demonstrate, educate, and help you decide on the best options and strategies for your visual needs.

  • Tailor prescriptions and coach you on how and when to use them.

  • Carefully work through your daily tasks, hobbies, and challenges to address your individual visual needs.

  • Advocate, train, prepare, and refer for eye surgeries and procedures—both pre- and post-op—to ensure confident decision-making and the best possible outcomes.

Will Dr. Folkers’ office still accept my eye insurance?

No. After Monday, December 15, 2025, the office will no longer directly accept insurance plans for services or materials.

Will Dr. Dave be my only eye doctor?

No. You’ll still need a separate provider for your comprehensive eye health exams.

If I’m a private-pay patient, do I still need another doctor for comprehensive exams?

Yes. Dr. Folkers will focus exclusively on visual performance and optimization. You’ll need another provider for your routine eye health evaluations.

Can I still use my vision insurance benefits?

Yes. You can use your insurance with another provider for:

  • Comprehensive eye health exams.

  • Glasses and contact lens purchases.

Note: The last day to directly use insurance benefits at Dr. Folkers’ office is December 15, 2025.

Can I use my HSA or FSA funds at Dr. Folkers’ office?

Yes, absolutely. These funds can be used for services and eyewear.

What is THE SILICON VALLEY REFRACTION™?

It’s a proprietary, in-depth process that redefines how prescriptions are measured and applied. Unlike the traditional 2–5 minute refraction during a routine exam, this method involves:

  • A significant time commitment.

  • Detailed coaching and education.

  • Demonstration and adaptation timelines.

  • A focus on long-term comfort, clarity, and performance.

Patients who’ve experienced dramatic improvements—like reduced headaches and all-day comfort—already understand the difference. This level of care is not feasible in most insurance-based or retail environments, and Dr. Folkers’ model may be the only venue offering this depth of refractive excellence.

Will my new eye doctor also provide a prescription?

Yes. Most comprehensive exams include a basic prescription. However, THE SILICON VALLEY REFRACTION™ offers a deeper, more personalized approach.

Bringing Dr. Folkers’ prescription to your new doctor is not offensive. It reflects a collaborative approach, with Dr. Dave serving as your visual performance specialist.

What should I do in case of an eye emergency?

  • Traumatic injuries or urgent issues: Call 911.

  • Serious but non-emergent concerns: Contact your medical insurance provider’s ophthalmology department.

  • General or minor concerns: Reach out to your new comprehensive eye health provider.

Will Dr. Dave see children as new patients after December 15, 2025?

No. The practice will focus on patients aged 18 and older.

Exception: Children seen before 12/15/25 may continue care if desired.

Can I still purchase contact lenses through Dr. Folkers’ office?

No. Contact lens sales will be discontinued.

Can I still purchase glasses through Dr. Folkers’ office?

Yes. We will continue to offer high-quality eyewear with:

  • Trusted progressive lens designs

  • Anti-reflective coatings

  • Photochromic tints

  • Precision measurements

All available on a private-pay basis.

Is this becoming a concierge or boutique practice?

Absolutely not. While we are transitioning to a 100% private-pay model, we are committed to:

  • Avoiding high membership fees or hidden charges.

  • Keeping services fair, affordable, and accessible.

  • Maintaining the same high standard of care you’ve come to expect.

What does the new care model look like?

We recommend the following steps:

  1. Start with Dr. Folkers for a comprehensive vision evaluation and optimized prescription.

  2. Schedule a comprehensive eye health exam with a new provider of your choice.

  3. Bring your prescription from Dr. Folkers to your new provider and use your insurance benefits for glasses or contacts.

Will Dr. Folkers provide referrals for comprehensive eye exams?

No. While Dr. Folkers knows many local providers, he has not personally received care from them and cannot make specific referrals.

We encourage you to ask friends, explore nearby offices, and do a little research—you’ll find a great fit.

Will Dr. Folkers provide surgical referrals?

Yes. He will continue to offer guidance and referrals for:

  • Refractive surgery (pre-op)

  • Cataract surgery (pre- and post-op care)

When should I see Dr. Folkers first?

  • If your vision has changed or you have concerns.

  • If you need new glasses or contacts and want a personalized prescription strategy.

  • If you’re considering or recovering from refractive or cataract surgery.

What are the service levels and costs?

There will be three service levels, based on time and complexity. Full details will be available on our new website (launching early December):

  • Level 1: Glasses wearers or those without prior prescriptions; pre/post cataract surgery.

  • Level 2: Contact lens wearers (must wear lenses to the appointment).

  • Level 3: Full pre-op evaluation for laser refractive surgery (includes dilation, coaching, and referral).

Will Dr. Folkers fit new contact lens wearers or manage ongoing fits?

No. Your new comprehensive eye health provider will handle all contact lens fittings and ongoing management.

Will Dr. Folkers help manage existing contact lens prescriptions?

Yes, with limitations.

  • Most Preferred: Wear your current lenses to the appointment. Dr. Folkers will perform an over-refraction and provide optimized advice (Level 2 service).

  • Least Preferred: Bring your current contact lens prescription. Dr. Folkers will offer guidance based on spectacle measurements and your current lens data (Level 1 service).

Why the name change to THE REFRACTIONIST Optometry?

It’s a fresh start—reflecting our evolved mission and identity. The new name emphasizes our commitment to visual excellence and personalized care.

The legacy name Sunnyvale Optometric Center remains valid and may still appear on some documents.

Is Dr. Folkers accepting new patients?

Yes. The new format allows us to serve a broader range of patients, including those:

  • Seeking better visual comfort and performance.

  • Struggling with persistent headaches or visual discomfort.

  • Needing tailored solutions for specific lifestyles, workstations, or passions.

We’re also collaborating with professionals in neurology, occupational therapy, ergonomics, and more to support visual wellness.

Will there be a YouTube channel?

Yes! Stay tuned for updates. The channel will offer insights for patients, parents, students, and professionals interested in vision and eye care.