FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Dr. Ukegbu serves as a principal investigator for clinical research programs focused on ocular therapeutics, dry eye disease, myopia management, and novel contact lens technologies. She collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to bring cutting-edge treatment options to patients in her communities.

Eligibility varies by study and depends on factors such as your age, medical history, current medications, and specific eye conditions. During your consultation, Dr. Ukegbu will review your profile against active studies to determine if you qualify. We encourage all patients to ask about open trials at their next visit.

In most cases, study-related eye care, investigational treatments, and study visits are provided at no cost to participants. Some trials also offer compensation for your time and travel. All costs and benefits will be clearly explained during the informed consent process before you enroll.

You can express interest by clicking the "Participate in a Trial" button on our homepage, or by contacting our office directly. A member of our research team will reach out to discuss active studies, answer your questions, and schedule a screening appointment if appropriate.

Yes. Participation in any clinical trial is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any time without penalty or loss of any benefits to which you are otherwise entitled. Your ongoing care with Dr. Ukegbu will not be affected by your decision to withdraw.

We carry a curated selection of designer and independent frames including Gucci, Ray-Ban, Maui Jim, Tom Ford, Kate Spade, and many more. Our optical boutique is updated seasonally to offer fresh, on-trend styles for every face shape, lifestyle, and budget.

Yes! If you have a valid prescription from any licensed provider, you can use it to purchase prescription eyewear through our online store. Prescriptions are typically valid for one to two years depending on your state. If you're unsure, we recommend scheduling an eye exam to get a current prescription.

Yes! Our Virtual Try-On feature lets you see how frames look on your own face using your device's camera before you buy. Simply visit the Virtual Try-On page, allow camera access, and browse our frame collection. It's a great way to find the perfect pair from the comfort of your home.

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, HSA/FSA cards, and Apple Pay / Google Pay. For in-office purchases, we also accept cash and checks. Financing options are available for larger purchases — ask our team for details.

Standard shipping typically takes 5–7 business days. Expedited shipping (2–3 business days) and overnight options are available at checkout. Prescription eyewear may take an additional 7–10 business days to fabricate before shipping. You will receive a tracking number once your order ships.

Yes! We offer free standard shipping on all orders over $100. Orders under $100 have a flat-rate shipping fee applied at checkout. Free shipping promotions may also be available periodically — sign up for our newsletter to stay informed.

Non-prescription accessories and frames may be returned within 30 days of delivery in their original, unworn condition with tags attached. Prescription eyewear is custom-made and is eligible for exchange or store credit within 30 days if there is a prescription error or manufacturing defect. Sale items are final sale unless defective.

Once your order ships, you will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. You can use this number on the carrier's website (UPS, FedEx, or USPS depending on your shipping method) to track your package in real time. If you have any issues, contact us at hello@theneighborhoodeyedoctor.com.

If your frames don't fit comfortably, visit any of our office locations for a complimentary adjustment. Our opticians are trained to adjust most frame styles for a secure, comfortable fit. If the frames need to be exchanged for a different size, we'll work with you to find the right solution.

Your health information is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). We use secure, encrypted electronic health records and take administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to prevent unauthorized access. Only authorized staff involved in your care may access your records.

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your health information with other providers involved in your care, your insurance company for billing purposes, or as required by law. For clinical research participants, data is de-identified and shared only per the terms of the study's IRB-approved protocol.

We retain medical records for a minimum of 7 years from the date of last service for adult patients, and until a minor patient's 21st birthday (or 7 years from the date of service, whichever is longer), in accordance with applicable state laws.

Yes. You have the right to request a copy of your medical records at any time. Please contact our office to submit a written records request. We will process your request within 30 days. A small administrative fee may apply for copies of records.

You can update your personal information (address, phone number, insurance) by contacting our office by phone or in person. For online store account information, log in to your account and navigate to Account Settings. If you believe any health information in your record is inaccurate, you may submit a written amendment request.

You can book an eye exam online at any time by clicking the "Book an Eye Exam" button on our website. You can also call the office nearest you or email us at hello@theneighborhoodeyedoctor.com. We offer flexible appointment times including early morning and Saturday slots at select locations.

We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Spectera, Davis Vision, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare, and Medicaid (where applicable). Please contact your local office to verify coverage before your appointment, as accepted plans may vary by location.

Office hours vary by location. Most locations are open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with select Saturday hours from 9 AM to 2 PM. Please visit our Locations page or call your local office to confirm current hours, as hours may change around holidays.

For urgent eye care concerns such as sudden vision loss, eye injury, or severe eye pain, please call your nearest office immediately. If it is after hours, our voicemail will direct you to an emergency contact. For life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Dr. Ukegbu is available for speaking engagements at healthcare conferences, corporate wellness events, schools, and community organizations on topics including eye health, clinical research, and entrepreneurship in optometry. To submit a speaking request, please visit our Speaking Request page or email hello@theneighborhoodeyedoctor.com.