The Best Optometrists in Balm, FL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Balm. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James K. Featherstone, OD
Featherstone Eye Care
Dr. James K. Featherstone leads Featherstone Eye Care, a highly-rated practice known for its exceptional patient care and family-friendly approach. With over two decades of experience, the practice emphasizes thorough comprehensive eye exams, advanced contact lens fittings, and specialized pediatric eye care. Patients consistently praise the staff's professionalism, modern amenities like digital retinal imaging, and a strong safety record with strict hygiene protocols. The practice is particularly noted for its high family satisfaction scores and personalized treatment plans for conditions like dry eye and myopia management.
Services:
Dr. David B. Kading, OD
Eye Care of Brandon
Dr. David B. Kading at Eye Care of Brandon is renowned for his expertise in glaucoma testing and cataract co-management, serving the Balm area with a commitment to high-quality vision care. The practice boasts a 4.7-star rating from nearly 90 reviews, highlighting its excellent safety standards, knowledgeable staff, and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. Established in 2006, it offers comprehensive services including emergency eye care and routine exams, with a focus on patient education and comfort. Families appreciate the attentive service, clean facilities, and efficient scheduling, making it a trusted choice for all ages.
Services:
Dr. Mark A. Wright, OD
Wright Eye Care
Dr. Mark A. Wright operates Wright Eye Care in Tampa, providing specialized services like vision therapy and sports vision training to the Balm community. With a 4.6-star rating and over 70 reviews, the practice is praised for its innovative care approaches, including LASIK consultations and diabetic eye exams. Founded in 2009, it combines 15 years of experience with a strong safety record and family-centered amenities, such as flexible appointment times and advanced vision correction options. Patients value the thorough examinations, friendly staff, and high satisfaction with treatment outcomes, particularly for complex vision needs.
Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Balm, FL, and what should I look for?
In Balm, a small unincorporated community, you'll primarily find optometrists in nearby larger towns like Sun City Center, Riverview, and Brandon. Start by searching online directories like the American Optometric Association's 'Doctor Locator' or Google Maps, filtering for 'optometrist near Balm, FL.' Look for practices with strong local reviews, clear information about their services (comprehensive exams, contact lens fittings, management of eye diseases), and convenient hours. Given Balm's rural setting, also consider the travel distance and the optometrist's experience with conditions common in Florida, such as managing UV exposure and dry eye from the climate.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists serving the Balm, FL area?
Optometrists in the areas surrounding Balm provide comprehensive eye care. This includes routine eye exams for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. Many also offer pre- and post-operative care for LASIK and cataract surgery. Given the strong sunlight in Florida, a key service is advising on and prescribing UV-protective lenses and sunglasses. Some practices may have optical shops on-site for immediate frame selection, while others in more rural settings might work closely with optical labs for timely delivery.
Do optometrists near Balm, FL accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. Most optometry offices in the South Hillsborough County region (serving Balm) accept major vision plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance (e.g., Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida) for medical eye care. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment. When you call, have your insurance card ready to verify coverage for routine exams, medical diagnoses, and materials like glasses or contacts. Be sure to ask about any out-of-pocket costs, as plans differ in coverage for frames, lenses, and advanced testing.
What is the average cost of an eye exam without insurance in the Balm, FL area?
For residents of Balm and the surrounding communities, the cost of a comprehensive eye exam without insurance typically ranges from $100 to $150, though it can be higher for specialized contact lens fittings or complex medical evaluations. This is a general estimate for the region; prices may vary slightly between independent practices in Sun City Center and larger retail chains in Brandon or Riverview. It's always best to call for a precise quote. Some practices offer discounts for seniors, children, or package deals that include an exam and basic eyewear.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist near Balm, FL?
Appointment availability can vary. For a routine eye exam, it's common to schedule 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially for popular practitioners or during peak times like back-to-school season or the beginning of the year when insurance benefits renew. For more urgent concerns (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most offices serving the Balm area will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments as medical emergencies. To secure a convenient time, especially if you need to coordinate travel from Balm to a neighboring town, it's advisable to call and book your appointment well in advance.