During an eye exam, what does the refraction assessment help to determine?

The refraction assessment is a crucial part of an eye exam, as it specifically helps in determining the correct lens prescription needed for vision correction. During this process, the eye care professional uses various methods, including a phoropter and an eye chart, to evaluate how light rays are focused by the eye, aiming to discern the exact correction needed for clearer vision. This evaluation leads to the identification of the appropriate lenses, whether they are for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia.

In contrast, other assessments during an eye exam, such as the status of the health of the eyes, may involve testing for diseases or evaluating peripheral vision, but these are not the focus of the refraction assessment. The procedure is strictly centered on measuring refractive error and prescribing corrective lenses, which is why it specifically answers the question regarding lens prescriptions for vision correction.