The Best Optometrists in Kirkwood, CA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Kirkwood. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark A. Bowers
Lake Tahoe Eye Care
Lake Tahoe Eye Care is a highly-rated practice serving the Kirkwood area with over 15 years of experience. Dr. Bowers specializes in family-friendly optometry, using advanced diagnostic technology for accurate eye exams and contact lens fittings. The practice is known for its excellent safety records, compassionate staff, and high patient satisfaction, making it a top choice for residents of Kirkwood and surrounding communities.
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Dr. Jennifer L. Martinez
Sierra Eye Associates
Sierra Eye Associates offers comprehensive eye care services with a focus on advanced treatments and patient education. Dr. Martinez brings 12 years of expertise in managing complex eye conditions and provides personalized care with modern amenities. The practice has a strong reputation for safety, staff qualifications, and family satisfaction, serving Kirkwood residents with reliable and accessible optometry services.
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Dr. Robert K. Lee
Placerville Vision Center
Placerville Vision Center extends its services to the Kirkwood area, with Dr. Lee offering over a decade of experience in specialized eye care. The practice is recognized for its high-quality diagnostics, friendly staff, and excellent family satisfaction ratings. They provide a range of services including diabetic eye exams and LASIK consultations, ensuring comprehensive care with a focus on safety and patient comfort.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Kirkwood, CA?
Given Kirkwood's smaller, mountain-town setting, many residents look to nearby communities for specialized services. You can start by searching online directories like the California Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for the 95646 area. Asking for recommendations from your primary care provider at the Kirkwood Medical Clinic or from local pharmacists can also yield trusted referrals. Many Kirkwood residents find convenient care from optometrists in Jackson, Sutter Creek, or the greater Amador County area, which are common commutes for services.
What specific eye care services should I look for in a Kirkwood-area optometrist?
For the active, outdoor lifestyle common in Kirkwood, look for optometrists offering comprehensive services beyond standard exams. Key services include management of UV and glare protection (crucial for high-altitude sun and snow reflection), sports vision assessments, and treatment for dry eye exacerbated by the dry mountain air. It's also beneficial to find a practice that offers a wide selection of durable, sport-friendly eyewear and can promptly handle repairs, as access to immediate replacements in Kirkwood itself is limited.
Do optometrists near Kirkwood accept my vision insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies. Most optometry practices in the surrounding Sierra foothill communities (like Jackson, Pioneer, or Placerville) accept major vision plans such as VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance like Medicare and Blue Cross for medical eye issues. It is crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be sure to mention you are calling from Kirkwood, as some offices may have specific networks for different regional areas.
What is the typical cost for an eye exam with an optometrist serving Kirkwood residents?
Without insurance, a comprehensive eye exam in the areas surrounding Kirkwood typically ranges from $100 to $150. However, costs can be higher for specialized contact lens fittings or advanced diagnostic testing. Many practices offer packages or discounts for cash-paying patients. Given the seasonal and tourist nature of Kirkwood, it's advisable to schedule routine exams during non-peak seasons (spring or fall) for better appointment availability and to ask about any local resident discounts that might be offered by nearby practices.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with an optometrist near Kirkwood?
Due to the limited number of optometry offices in the immediate mountain region, it's wise to schedule routine exams several weeks to a month or more in advance, especially if you need evening or weekend appointments. For more urgent but non-emergency issues (like a broken frame or sudden irritation), call offices in Jackson or Placerville as they may hold slots for same-day or next-day urgent care. Planning ahead is key, particularly before the winter ski season when local residents often update prescriptions for goggles and sunglasses.