I've been looking into vision correction lately and plan to get consultations at various clinics.

A friend told me to look for an ophthalmology clinic with no consultation fee first.

I assumed that getting an examination was usually free at most places, but are there places where that isn't the case?

I'm confused about whether the criteria for a "consultation-free" clinic includes the free examination as well, or if it only applies to the consultation itself.

If anyone has visited a clinic with no consultation fee, I would appreciate it if you could let me know under what circumstances costs are incurred.