Detecting changes in your vision before you notice them

visual field test

A visual field test (also known as a peripheral field test or field of vision test) assesses your side vision to detect early signs of conditions that may affect your visual field. This important test helps identify changes that often go unnoticed, supporting early diagnosis and long-term eye health.

Assessing your peripheral vision

What is a visual field test?

A visual field test measures how well you can see objects outside your central line of sight. Your peripheral vision plays a key role in everyday activities such as driving, walking, and spatial awareness. Changes in peripheral vision can be an early sign of conditions such as glaucoma, neurological issues, or retinal disease, often before you notice any symptoms. Regular testing allows us to detect these changes early and take appropriate action. Visual field testing is commonly included as part of a comprehensive eye exam or recommended if there are concerns about your peripheral vision. Visual field tests are available at our Ringwood & Croydon locations.
It is recommended you make an appointment for your eye test to avoid long wait times however we can also accommodate walk-ins at our Ringwood and Croydon locations.

What Does a visual field test Involve?

A visual field test involves assessing how well you can detect objects in your side vision while focusing on a central point. You’ll typically be asked to respond when you see lights or stimuli appear in different areas of your visual field. This allows us to map your visual field and identify any areas where vision may be reduced or missing.

Does a visual field test hurt or feel uncomfortable?

A visual field test is completely painless and non-invasive. The test is simple to perform and generally well tolerated by patients.

Do I need to prepare for a visual field test?

No preparation is needed for a visual field test.

What does a visual field test cost?

A visual field test may be included as part of a comprehensive eye exam, which is often covered by Medicare for eligible patients. If performed as a specialised test, there may be an additional fee, which will be discussed beforehand.

Visit our pricing page to view our current prices and rebates. 

 

What happens after the test?

After your visual field test, your optometrist will explain your results and whether your visual field is within normal range. If any abnormalities are detected, we’ll discuss the next steps, which may include further testing, monitoring, or referral to a specialist. You’ll receive your results immediately, and the test provides valuable insight into your overall eye health and function.

Frequently Asked Questions

You do not need a referral from a doctor for a visual field test. Simply book online or call your preferred Harris Blake and Parsons practice to make an appointment.
You should allow 30-45 minutes for your appointment
Yes, you will be able to drive after your eye test. A visual field test does not affect your ability to drive, so you can continue with your day as normal immediately after your appointment.
To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking an appointment in advance. Walk-ins may be available at our Ringwood and Croydon locations, depending on appointment availability on the day.
Harris Blake & Parsons offers visual field tests at our Ringwood, Croydon, Healesville and Yarram practices. Visit our locations page to view open hours and make an appointment.

The process

Your eye check journey

1. Book Appointment

Book online or call us to book your eye check. 

2. New Patient Form

If you have not visited us before, fill out our New Patient Form before your appointment. Alternatively complete this in-person prior to your appointment. 

3. Attend Appointment

Attend your eye check appointment. 
Your appointment will begin with a brief consultation, followed by a series of thorough, painless eye tests tailored to you.

4. Results & Treatment

In most cases you will receive your results immediately.
In your appointment your optometrist will assess your results and provide the findings and recommended next actions if required. 

Locations

4 convenient locations in Melbourne’s east

With four convenient locations across Melbourne’s East, accessing quality eye care is easy. All 4 of our Harris Blake & Parsons locations offer an extensive range of eye checks and eye treatments.
In addition, our Ringwood and Croydon clinics offer a large range of eyewear available to browse and purchase in-store.

To book an eye check at our Ringwood or Croydon stores, use the button below. For appointments at our Healesville and Yarram locations, please call us.

Ringwood
03 9870 5478

Croydon, Healesville & Yarram
03 9723 3218

About

Harris Blake & Parsons

Providing premium optometry in Melbourne for over 65 years

A local and independent optometry practice, we are known for providing the highest quality eye checks, personalised treatments and an unmatched range of eyewear products to our community for over 65 years.
We offer a broad range of eye exams and eye treatments as well as eyewear and contact lens retail.
With locations in Ringwood, Croydon, Healesville & Yarram, we’re the perfect choice for eyecare in Melbourne’s East.

Reviews

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Which location would you like to attend?

Online bookings are available at Ringwood and Croydon. To make a booking at Healesville or Yarram, please call us. 

Ringwood

Bookings preferred, walk-ins welcome

Open Hours:

Mon-Thurs: 9am – 5:30pm
Fri: 9am – 6:30pm
Sat: 9am – 5pm
Sun: Closed

Croydon

Bookings preferred, walk-ins welcome

Open Hours:

Mon-Tues: 9am – 5:30pm
Weds: 9:30am – 2:30pm
Thurs-Fri: 9am – 5:30pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Healesville

By appointment only

Open Hours:

Tues: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Closed all other days

Call (03) 9723 3218 to book

Yarram

By appointment only

Open Hours:

Visiting two days every six weeks, by appointment only.

Call (03) 9723 3218 to book

If you are a new patient please complete our NEW PATIENT FORM prior to your appointment. If you are unable to complete this online, please arrive 15 minutes early to your appointment to complete a paper copy.