Building a Starter Diagnostic Lens Kit for New Optometrists and Residents
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A practical starter diagnostic lens kit for a new optometrist or resident is built around three non-contact lenses: a 20D for indirect ophthalmoscopy, plus a 78D and a 90D for slit lamp fundus exams. Add a protective case, a cleaning routine and a short list of program-specific extras, and you have what you need for most routine retinal exams. This guide helps you plan the kit, set priorities on a resident budget, and avoid common first-year mistakes.
If you want a deeper look at how each lens power behaves optically, see our 20D vs 78D vs 90D comparison. Here we focus on putting a kit together and using it well from your first clinic rotation.
Start with what your program and clinic already provide
Before you buy anything, find out what is already in the exam lanes. Many training programs and clinics supply binocular indirect ophthalmoscopes (BIOs), slit lamps, gonioscopy lenses and tonometers. Personal lenses are a different story. Most students and residents are expected to bring their own handheld diagnostic lenses, and having your own set means you learn one set of optics well instead of switching between whatever is left in the drawer.
Ask your clinic director or chief resident three questions:
- Which lenses am I expected to own by my first patient-care rotation?
- Are there program preferences or required brands?
- What disinfection protocol does the clinic use for non-contact lenses?
The core three: 20D, 78D and 90D
These three lenses cover the two main ways you will look at the retina: indirect ophthalmoscopy with a headset, and biomicroscopy at the slit lamp.
20D — your indirect ophthalmoscopy workhorse
The 20D is paired with a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope for routine retinal exams. It offers high resolution and a wide field of view, which makes it the lens most trainees learn first for scanning the retina and the periphery. Expect a learning curve: getting a stable, inverted image while moving around the patient takes practice.
78D — balanced view at the slit lamp
The 78D gives an ideal balance of field and magnification for slit lamp fundus exams, with an extended working distance from the cornea. That extra working room makes it forgiving for beginners and comfortable for detailed views of the optic disc and macula.
90D — wide-field slit lamp scanning
The 90D is a non-contact slit lamp lens for wide-field fundus imaging out to and beyond the equator, ideal for posterior pole scanning. It is especially handy with smaller pupils, and many clinicians reach for it for quick screening views at the slit lamp.
| Lens | Used with | Typical role in a starter kit |
|---|---|---|
| 20D | Binocular indirect ophthalmoscope | Routine retinal exam, peripheral retina |
| 78D | Slit lamp | Detailed disc and macula views, extra working distance |
| 90D | Slit lamp | Wide-field posterior pole scanning |
Do you really need both a 78D and a 90D?
It is a fair question on a tight budget. The two overlap, but they feel different in practice. The 78D's longer working distance and balance of magnification help when you are learning to hold the lens steady and evaluate the optic nerve. The 90D's wider field helps with quick scanning and with smaller pupils. Owning both lets you match the lens to the patient and the question you are answering, rather than forcing one lens to do every job. If you must stagger purchases, ask your attending which one your clinic relies on most.
Why buy as a bundle
Buying the three lenses together has some practical advantages for students and new graduates:
- Better economics — bundle pricing versus buying each lens separately.
- A complete toolkit — indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit lamp use cases covered at once.
- One shipment — fewer purchase orders if your clinic or program is buying.
- A shared case — the SciMed combo pack ships in a wooden safety case for all three lenses.
The SciMed Aspheric Ophthalmic Lenses Combo Pack includes 20D, 78D and 90D double aspheric glass lenses. Pricing ranges from $149.99 to $249.99 depending on the option you choose.
Useful extras to add over time
The core three are the priority. Once you settle in, these items are commonly added by trainees, depending on program requirements and the clinic you work in:
- Lens cleaning supplies — a soft microfiber cloth and the lens cleaner your clinic approves.
- A scleral depressor — for peripheral retinal exams with the BIO, if your program teaches it.
- Diagnostic stains — such as fluorescein strips for anterior segment work; see our fluorescein strip guide.
- A gonioscopy lens — often provided by the clinic, but some residents prefer their own.
- A padded bag or organizer — so lenses do not knock against other instruments when you move between sites.
Caring for your lenses from day one
Good habits protect both your patients and your investment. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and your clinic's infection-control protocol for cleaning and disinfecting non-contact lenses between patients. A few general habits help:
- Hold lenses by the rim, not the glass.
- Remove smudges with a clean, soft cloth; avoid paper towels and shirt hems.
- Never leave lenses loose in a pocket or on the slit lamp table.
- Return each lens to its slot in the case after every patient session.
- Check the surfaces under good light regularly for scratches or chips.
Practice tips for your first rotations
Every new clinician struggles with these lenses at first. That is normal. A few habits shorten the learning curve:
- Practice on classmates or model eyes before your first patient sessions.
- Start with the 78D at the slit lamp to find the optic disc, then try the 90D for wider scans.
- With the 20D, focus on steady posture and moving your body, not just the lens.
- Ask attendings to watch your technique and give feedback early.
For a broader overview of aspheric designs and the 28D option, read our complete guide to aspheric ophthalmic lenses.
Buying for a whole class, residency program or clinic? Email sales@scimedstore.com or WhatsApp +1-669-265-9353 for group and school pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What lenses should a new optometrist or resident buy first?
Most starter kits are built on three non-contact lenses: a 20D for use with a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope, and a 78D and 90D for slit lamp fundus exams. Check your program's requirements before you buy.
Is the 20D used at the slit lamp?
No. The 20D is paired with a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope. The 78D and 90D are the lenses used at the slit lamp.
What comes in the SciMed combo pack?
The pack includes 20D, 78D and 90D double aspheric glass non-contact lenses, shipped together in a wooden safety case.
How should I clean my diagnostic lenses?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and your clinic's infection-control protocol. Handle lenses by the rim, wipe with a clean soft cloth, and store them in their case after each session.
Can a school or program order lenses for a whole class?
Yes. Email sales@scimedstore.com or WhatsApp +1-669-265-9353 to ask about group, school or clinic pricing.