The Best Optometrists in Eglin AFB, FL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Eglin AFB. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David L. Hill
Eyecare Associates of Niceville
Eyecare Associates of Niceville is a highly-rated independent practice known for its personalized care and advanced technology. Dr. David L. Hill leads the team with over 18 years of experience, focusing on family-friendly services including pediatric eye care and management of complex conditions like glaucoma. The practice emphasizes safety with modern diagnostic equipment and has strong family satisfaction records, making it a top choice for Eglin AFB personnel and families. Amenities include a wide selection of frames and same-day appointments for urgent needs.
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Dr. Michael J. Ward
Fort Walton Eye Care
Fort Walton Eye Care, under Dr. Michael J. Ward, has served the Eglin AFB community for over 20 years with a reputation for thorough, compassionate care. The practice offers comprehensive services, including emergency eye care and LASIK consultations, using state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses. With a strong safety record and high patient satisfaction, it is well-regarded for its attentive staff and family-oriented approach. The clinic provides amenities like extended hours and accepts most insurance plans, ensuring accessibility for military families.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
Visionworks
Visionworks in Fort Walton Beach is part of a reputable national chain with a strong local presence, serving Eglin AFB residents with reliable and affordable eye care. Dr. Sarah K. Johnson brings 12 years of experience, specializing in diabetic eye exams and vision therapy. The practice is praised for its efficient service, modern amenities, and high care quality, with a focus on patient safety and satisfaction. It offers a wide range of eyewear options and convenient scheduling, making it a popular choice for families seeking consistent, quality optometry services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find an optometrist near Eglin AFB who accepts TRICARE?
Finding an optometrist who accepts TRICARE near Eglin AFB is straightforward. Your first and most convenient option is to visit the optometry clinic at the Eglin Hospital or the 96th Medical Group. For off-base care, use the TRICARE provider directory online or call the TRICARE regional contractor for the Southeast (Humana Military) to get a list of in-network civilian optometrists in the Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Destin areas. Many local practices are familiar with military families and TRICARE billing.
What should I look for when choosing a civilian optometrist in the Eglin AFB area?
When choosing a civilian optometrist near Eglin AFB, prioritize those with experience serving military personnel and families. Look for practices that efficiently handle TRICARE referrals and paperwork if required for your plan. Consider proximity to base for convenience, office hours that accommodate your schedule, and whether they offer comprehensive services like pediatric eye exams, contact lens fittings, and treatment for conditions like dry eye, which is common in Florida's climate. Reading reviews from other military families can also be very helpful.
Can I get a routine eye exam and new glasses on base at Eglin AFB, or do I need a referral?
Yes, active duty service members can typically receive routine eye exams and glasses directly through the optometry clinic at the 96th Medical Group on Eglin AFB. For family members and retirees, eligibility depends on your specific TRICARE plan (Prime, Select, etc.). Those enrolled in TRICARE Prime usually require a referral from their Primary Care Manager (PCM) for specialty care like optometry, whether on or off-base. It's best to contact the Eglin AFB Appointment Line or your PCM's office to confirm your specific benefits and referral requirements before scheduling.
Are there optometrists near Eglin AFB that offer emergency eye care for issues like sudden vision loss or eye injuries?
For true eye emergencies (sudden vision loss, severe pain, chemical burns, trauma), you should proceed immediately to the Emergency Department at Eglin Hospital. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues (like a foreign object, sudden redness, or flash floaters), contact the Eglin AFB optometry clinic during duty hours. After hours or if the clinic cannot accommodate you, they can provide guidance. Several civilian optometry and ophthalmology practices in Fort Walton Beach and Destin offer urgent care appointments. It's wise to identify one such practice in advance and verify they accept your insurance.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam and glasses for a military family member using TRICARE off-base near Eglin AFB?
Costs for family members using TRICARE off-base near Eglin AFB vary by plan. With TRICARE Prime, you will need a referral and will likely pay a small copay for the specialist visit (optometrist) and may have a cost-share for glasses or contact lenses. With TRICARE Select, you can see an in-network optometrist without a referral but will pay an annual deductible and cost-share (a percentage of the negotiated rate). It is crucial to confirm that the civilian optometrist is in-network, obtain any needed referrals, and get a cost estimate for frames and lenses beforehand, as TRICARE vision benefits for glasses are often limited to a specific allowance.