Free preparation

Which documents do you need?

The more complete your file, the more a review can tell you. This is what an optometrist likes to see — and where to find it. A photo of the paper version is perfectly fine.

The checklist

Glasses prescription or contact lens specification

The powers (SPH/CYL/AXIS, possibly ADD) for both eyes.

On your optician's prescription or in your account at the webshop where you order lenses.

OCT report

The scan of your retina or optic nerve, preferably with the measurement report (numbers and colour maps).

Made at your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist — ask for a print or PDF of the full report.

Eye pressure reading

The value per eye (in mmHg), and if available: corneal thickness (pachymetry).

Often in your optician's measurement report or the ophthalmologist's letter.

Fundus photo

The colour photograph of your retina.

Many opticians take one as part of an eye exam — ask for it.

Letter or report from the ophthalmologist/optometrist

Earlier findings, diagnoses or advice (for example a SOAP note).

You have a legal right to a copy — see below.

Your question

What exactly do you want to know? One clear question focuses a review better than ten documents.

You only need to write it down.

Tip: a clearly readable phone photo of a paper report is fine. Lay the paper flat, use daylight, and hold the camera straight above it.

You have a right to your own records

Under Dutch law (WGBO) and the GDPR you have the right to access and receive a copy of your own (eye) care records — including from your optician or optometrist. Requesting a copy is free and requires no reason. Feel free to use this template:

Template message to your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist:

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to receive a copy of my records, in particular:
- my most recent eye exam / glasses prescription;
- any OCT scans and fundus photos, including measurement reports;
- eye pressure readings and other examination reports.

I make this request under my right of access and copy (art. 7:456 Dutch Civil Code / art. 15 GDPR). A digital copy (PDF) is preferred.

Thank you in advance,
[name]
[date of birth]