The Best Optometrists in Towaoc, CO
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Towaoc. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Southwest Eye Care
Independent Practice
Southwest Eye Care is the premier optometry practice serving the Towaoc and surrounding Montezuma County area. Located just 20 miles from Towaoc in Cortez, this highly-rated practice has built an exceptional reputation for comprehensive eye care services. Dr. Ryan Fitting and his team provide advanced diagnostic technology including retinal imaging and visual field testing. The practice is known for its patient-centered approach, serving all ages from children to seniors, with particular expertise in managing diabetic eye disease and glaucoma. They accept most insurance plans and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate patients from Towaoc and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
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Mesa View Optometry
Independent Practice
Mesa View Optometry has been serving the Four Corners region for over two decades, providing exceptional eye care to patients from Towaoc and surrounding communities. Dr. Michael Dequria leads this established practice known for its thorough examinations and personalized care. The practice features an extensive optical department with hundreds of frame choices and advanced lens technology. They specialize in managing complex vision conditions and offer emergency eye care services, making them a reliable choice for Towaoc residents needing immediate attention. Their commitment to community health includes serving local schools and tribal health programs.
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Vision Source of Cortez
Vision Source Network
Vision Source of Cortez provides advanced optometric care as part of the national Vision Source network while maintaining local practice values. Serving Towaoc residents for nearly two decades, this practice offers state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment including digital retinal photography and optical coherence tomography. The practice is particularly noted for their expertise in contact lens fittings for difficult prescriptions and their comprehensive approach to eye health management. They work closely with regional ophthalmologists for surgical co-management and provide specialized services for children's vision development. Their convenient Cortez location makes them easily accessible for Towaoc community members.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there optometrists located directly in Towaoc, or will I need to travel to a nearby town?
As a smaller community within the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Reservation, Towaoc itself has limited on-site medical services. For comprehensive eye exams and optical services, residents typically travel to nearby Cortez, CO (approximately 15 miles away), which has several optometry practices. It's advisable to check if any visiting optometrists or mobile vision clinics schedule appointments at the Ute Mountain Ute Health Center in Towaoc periodically.
How can I find an optometrist near Towaoc that accepts Native American/IHS health benefits?
Start by contacting the Ute Mountain Ute Health Center in Towaoc. They can provide referrals to optometrists in the region, such as in Cortez or Durango, that have agreements with Indian Health Service (IHS) or accept your specific benefits. Many practices in Montezuma County are familiar with IHS and tribal health protocols. Always confirm insurance and payment acceptance directly with the optometrist's office when scheduling.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Towaoc/Cortez area?
Given the rural setting, prioritize convenience and comprehensive care. Look for practices in Cortez that offer full services—eye exams, treatment for conditions like diabetes-related eye issues (which have higher prevalence in the area), and an on-site optical lab for glasses. Check if they have experience working with patients from the Ute Mountain Ute community. Also, consider their hours and ability to handle emergencies, as traveling to larger cities like Durango for urgent care is a longer trip.
Do optometrists serving the Towaoc area offer appointments for specific needs like diabetic eye exams or pediatric eye care?
Yes, many optometry practices in nearby Cortez are equipped to provide specialized care. Diabetic eye exams are a critical service offered, given the importance of monitoring for diabetic retinopathy. Pediatric eye care is also available. When calling to book, specify your needs—whether it's a routine exam, a child's first visit, or management of a chronic condition like glaucoma or diabetes. Some offices may also have diagnostic technology for dry eye treatment, which can be relevant in Colorado's dry climate.
What is the typical process for scheduling an eye exam, and how far in advance should I book near Towaoc?
For the optometry clinics in Cortez that serve Towaoc residents, it's best to call directly to schedule. Appointment availability can vary, so booking 2-4 weeks in advance for a routine exam is common. Be prepared to provide your insurance information (including IHS/tribal details if applicable) and mention if you need a specific type of appointment. Some offices may offer online scheduling. Due to the travel involved, confirm the location, ask about cancellation policies, and check if they can order contact lenses for mail delivery to Towaoc to reduce trips.