An ophthalmic examination is a series of tests conducted by an eye care professional to assess the health and function of the eyes. This examination typically includes checking visual acuity, which measures how well a person can see at various distances, and evaluating the overall structure of the eyes using specialized instruments. During the examination, the professional may also assess eye pressure to screen for conditions like glaucoma and examine the retina and optic nerve for signs of diseases such as diabetes or macular degeneration. These tests help in diagnosing eye conditions and determining the need for corrective lenses or treatments.