The Best Optometrists in Lakeside, AZ
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Lakeside. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
White Mountain Vision Center
Independent
White Mountain Vision Center has been serving the Lakeside and White Mountains region for over 20 years, renowned for its high-quality care and family-friendly approach. They utilize advanced diagnostic technology, offer a wide range of services including pediatric optometry, and maintain excellent safety records. Patients consistently praise their experienced staff, personalized attention, and modern amenities, making them a top choice for comprehensive eye care.
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Advanced Eye Care
Independent
Advanced Eye Care is a well-established practice known for its thorough eye exams and specialized treatments like dry eye management. With over a decade of service, they emphasize patient education and use state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses. Their staff is highly qualified, and they have strong family satisfaction ratings due to their compassionate care and efficient service.
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Family Eye Care Center
Independent
Family Eye Care Center has built a strong reputation in the Lakeside area for nearly two decades, focusing on family-centered optometry with services like vision therapy and emergency care. They are celebrated for their friendly, knowledgeable team and commitment to safety, with many reviews highlighting their ability to make patients of all ages feel comfortable. Their longevity and consistent high ratings reflect their dedication to quality eye health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Lakeside, AZ?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care doctor at Summit Healthcare or from neighbors in the Lakeside/Pinetop area. You can also search the Arizona Optometric Association's online directory for licensed practitioners near you. Many local residents also rely on reviews for clinics along White Mountain Blvd or in the Hon-Dah area to find an optometrist with a strong community reputation for thorough eye exams and personalized care.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in the Lakeside area?
Optometrists in Lakeside provide comprehensive services crucial for the high-altitude, sunny environment of the White Mountains. This includes routine eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of conditions like dry eye (common in the arid climate), and detection of eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. Many also offer pre- and post-operative care for cataract surgery, which is commonly performed at nearby surgical centers, and can fit specialized eyewear for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Do Lakeside optometrists accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry offices in Lakeside accept a wide range of insurance plans commonly held by local residents, including Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, and plans from employers like the school district or local government. It's always best to call the specific office ahead of your appointment. Be sure to ask if they are in-network for your vision plan (like VSP or EyeMed) and also if they bill medical insurance for health-related eye issues, as policies can vary between practices on White Mountain Blvd and those in smaller plaza locations.
What should I consider when choosing between the optometrists in Lakeside and Pinetop?
Consider convenience, specialty needs, and practice philosophy. If you live in Lakeside proper, a clinic on White Mountain Blvd might be most accessible. Check if the optometrist has experience with specific concerns common in the area, such as managing UV protection due to high elevation sun exposure or sports vision for local athletes. Also, visit or call to assess the friendliness of the staff and the range of frame selections if you need glasses. Many smaller, independent practices in the area offer a highly personalized experience, which is valued by the close-knit community.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with a Lakeside optometrist?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak times like summer when seasonal residents return and before the school year starts. Appointments can fill up quickly. However, many optometrists in the Lakeside-Pinetop area keep slots open for urgent eye care needs (like infections or sudden vision changes). Calling as soon as you know you need an exam is best, and some offices may offer a waitlist for earlier cancellations, particularly at practices with multiple doctors.