Visual Field Test
Comprehensive Visual Field Eye test
A visual field test is an important part of a comprehensive eye examination. It assesses how well you can see objects to the side, above, and below your direct line of sight while focusing straight ahead. At Spectacle Hub Optometrists, visual field testing is used to help detect, monitor, and manage a range of eye and neurological conditions, often before symptoms are noticed.
For eligible Medicare card holders, visual field testing is provided at no out-of-pocket cost, including the Binocular Esterman test required for VicRoads fitness to drive assessments.
Book Your Visual Field Test Today and Protect Your Vision from Glaucoma and Other Eye Diseases
What Is a Visual Field Test?
A visual field eye test measures your peripheral vision, sometimes referred to as side vision. While a standard eye test checks how clearly you see straight ahead, a visual field examination identifies areas where vision may be reduced or missing.
Many eye conditions affect peripheral vision first, which is why a visual field screening test is such a valuable diagnostic tool. Changes can occur gradually and often go unnoticed without proper testing.
Why Is a Visual Field Eye Test Important?
Your peripheral vision plays a major role in everyday activities such as driving, walking in busy areas, and navigating stairs. A visual field eye exam helps identify changes that may impact safety and long-term eye health.
Visual field testing is commonly used to:
- Detect early signs of glaucoma
- Monitor known eye disease
- Assess optic nerve function
- Identify changes linked to neurological conditions
- Meet vision requirements for driving and certain occupations
Early detection allows treatment or monitoring to begin sooner, helping preserve vision over time.
What Happens During a Visual Field Examination?
A visual field examination is simple, comfortable, and non-invasive. During the test:
- You will be seated comfortably and asked to focus on a central target
- Small lights or symbols will appear in different areas of your vision
- You press a button whenever you see a stimulus
- The test maps how your visual field responds
The results help your optometrist identify any areas of reduced sensitivity or vision loss.
Types of Optical Field Tests We Perform
At Spectacle Hub, we perform different types of optical field tests depending on your clinical needs.
Standard Visual Field Test
This test assesses peripheral vision in one eye at a time and is commonly used to detect and monitor conditions such as glaucoma and optic nerve disease.
Binocular Esterman Visual Field Test
The Binocular Esterman test measures vision using both eyes together and is often required for VicRoads fitness to drive assessments. It evaluates how your vision functions in real-world situations, particularly when driving.
For Medicare card holders, this test is performed at no additional cost when clinically indicated.
Who May Need a Visual Field Screening Test?
Your optometrist may recommend a visual field screening test if you:
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
- Experience unexplained vision changes
- Have been diagnosed with an eye condition
- Require vision clearance for driving or work
Visual field testing may also be repeated over time to monitor any changes in your vision.
Visual Field Testing and Glaucoma Monitoring
Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. A visual field test is one of the most effective ways to detect and track glaucoma-related vision changes.
Regular testing allows your optometrist to monitor progression and adjust management plans if needed. When combined with other clinical tests, visual field testing provides a clear picture of your eye health.
Medicare-Covered Visual Field Eye Tests at Spectacle Hub
At Spectacle Hub, we believe essential eye care should be accessible. That is why visual field eye tests are bulk billed for eligible Medicare card holders when clinically required.
This includes:
- Visual field testing as part of eye disease monitoring
- Follow-up visual field examinations
- Binocular Esterman tests for VicRoads fitness to drive
Our team will always explain what testing is recommended and confirm Medicare eligibility before proceeding.
Why Choose Spectacle Hub Optometrists?
Patients choose Spectacle Hub for:
- Experienced and caring optometrists
- Modern diagnostic equipment
- Clear explanations and personalised care
- Multiple locations across Melbourne and Geelong
- Commitment to bulk billed eye tests for eligible patients
We take the time to ensure you understand your results and feel confident about your eye health.
Book Your Visual Field Test Today
If you have been advised to undergo a visual field eye exam, or if you are due for an eye check, our team is here to help. Early testing can play a crucial role in protecting your vision and supporting safe driving.
