The Best Optometrists in Ethelsville, AL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ethelsville. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. William A. Latham
Aliceville Family Eye Care
Dr. William A. Latham at Aliceville Family Eye Care is highly regarded for his personalized approach and extensive experience in family optometry. With a focus on patient safety and comprehensive care, the practice offers state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including digital retinal imaging and automated visual field testing. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, short wait times, and thorough explanations during exams. The practice has built a strong reputation for managing complex conditions like diabetes-related eye issues and providing affordable eyewear options. Its long-standing presence in the area ensures trusted care for Ethelsville residents, with an emphasis on children's vision and senior eye health.
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Dr. James R. Brown
Carrollton Eye Care
Carrollton Eye Care, led by Dr. James R. Brown, is known for its compassionate service and high-quality eye care tailored to rural communities. The practice emphasizes safety with sanitized equipment and individualized appointment scheduling to minimize crowds. Services include advanced contact lens fittings and treatment for common issues like cataracts and macular degeneration. Reviews highlight the staff's professionalism, modern facilities, and family-friendly environment, with many patients noting the ease of scheduling and follow-up care. Serving Pickens County for over a decade, this optometrist is a reliable choice for Ethelsville families seeking thorough exams and durable eyewear solutions.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
VisionFirst Eye Care
Dr. Sarah K. Johnson at VisionFirst Eye Care in Tuscaloosa brings a decade of expertise and a patient-centered approach, making her a top choice for Ethelsville residents. The practice is praised for its cutting-edge amenities, such as digital eye mapping and blue light protection services, alongside a strong safety record with HIPAA-compliant records and sterile protocols. Family satisfaction is high due to the inclusive care for all ages, including specialized pediatric vision screenings and senior eye health programs. With numerous positive reviews emphasizing minimal wait times and a wide selection of frames, VisionFirst combines the reliability of a regional chain with the personalized touch of a local practice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Ethelsville, AL?
Given Ethelsville's small size, you may need to look in nearby towns for a full-service optometry practice. Start by checking online directories like the Alabama Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for the 35461 zip code. Many residents of Ethelsville find care in nearby cities like Columbus, MS, or Fayette, AL. You can also ask for recommendations at the local pharmacy or from your primary care provider at the Pickens County Medical Center.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Ethelsville area?
When choosing an optometrist near Ethelsville, consider their proximity and availability, as travel to a neighboring town is often necessary. Look for practices that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage common conditions like diabetes-related eye issues (relevant to the region's health profile), and have a good selection of eyewear. It's also wise to verify they accept your specific vision or medical insurance, and check patient reviews to gauge their bedside manner and service quality.
Do optometrists near Ethelsville accept Alabama Medicaid or Medicare for eye exams?
Yes, many optometry practices in the surrounding northwest Alabama and northeast Mississippi region accept Alabama Medicaid (for eligible patients, typically covering exams for children) and Medicare. However, coverage specifics for routine exams versus medical eye exams can vary. It is crucial to call the optometrist's office directly—whether in Fayette, Carrollton, or Columbus—to confirm they are in-network with your plan and to understand what services are covered before scheduling an appointment.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Ethelsville community?
Optometrists serving the Ethelsville area typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Given the rural setting, some practices may emphasize managing diabetic eye disease and dry eye, which are common concerns. Many also offer an optical shop for glasses. For advanced surgical needs, they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in larger centers like Tuscaloosa or Birmingham.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist near Ethelsville?
Appointment availability can vary. For routine eye exams with popular practices in nearby towns, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common. For more urgent concerns (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most offices will work to accommodate you sooner. It's recommended to schedule your annual exam well ahead of time, especially if you need to coordinate transportation. Calling smaller, locally-owned practices directly can sometimes yield quicker appointments than larger regional chains.