The Best Optometrists in Holt, FL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Holt. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. John L. Burns
Burns Vision Center
Dr. John L. Burns operates one of the most highly-rated vision care practices in the Northwest Florida region, serving Holt and surrounding communities for over three decades. The practice is known for its comprehensive eye health evaluations, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized patient care. Patients consistently praise Dr. Burns' thorough examinations, clear explanations, and family-friendly approach. The practice offers extensive optical services including designer frames and specializes in managing complex vision conditions.
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Dr. Michael D. Brown
VisionFirst Eye Center
VisionFirst Eye Center, led by Dr. Michael D. Brown, has built an exceptional reputation throughout Okaloosa County for delivering high-quality eye care with advanced technology. The practice serves patients from Holt and surrounding areas with comprehensive vision services including medical eye care, contact lens fittings, and treatment for eye diseases. Reviews consistently highlight the professional staff, modern equipment, and Dr. Brown's expertise in diagnosing and managing complex eye conditions. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible scheduling.
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Dr. James R. Gills
Emerald Coast Eye Institute
Emerald Coast Eye Institute, founded by renowned ophthalmologist Dr. James R. Gills, includes a team of optometrists providing comprehensive eye care services to patients throughout the Northwest Florida region, including Holt residents. The practice offers state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and specializes in both routine vision care and complex medical eye conditions. Patients appreciate the extensive experience of the clinical team, thorough examinations, and comprehensive approach to eye health. The institute is particularly noted for its expertise in surgical co-management and treatment of advanced eye diseases.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Holt, FL?
In Holt and the surrounding Okaloosa County area, a good starting point is to ask for recommendations from your primary care physician at a local clinic or from neighbors. You can also search the Florida Board of Optometry's licensee lookup to verify credentials. Many residents in Holt find convenient care by looking at practices in nearby Crestview, which offers more options while remaining a short drive away. Checking online reviews for clinics in Crestview or Niceville can also provide insight into patient experiences.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Holt community?
Optometrists in the Holt area provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose vision issues like nearsightedness and astigmatism, which are common needs. They also manage and treat conditions like dry eye, often exacerbated by the local climate, and can detect eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. Most practices offer contact lens fittings and a wide selection of eyewear. For more specialized surgical care, they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in larger nearby cities like Fort Walton Beach or Pensacola.
Do optometrists near Holt, FL accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. Many optometry offices in the Crestview and North Okaloosa County area accept major vision plans like VSP and EyeMed, as well as medical insurance such as Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida for medically necessary visits. It's crucial to call the specific office you're considering in advance to verify they are in-network with your plan. Some smaller, independent practices in the region may also offer competitive self-pay rates or discounts for cash payments.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in this rural part of Florida?
Given Holt's rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and office hours that accommodate your schedule. Look for a practitioner with broad experience who can handle a wide range of needs, minimizing the need for distant referrals for common issues. Consider if the practice has modern diagnostic technology. Also, assess their policy for emergency eye care—knowing which local optometrist can see you promptly for a sudden eye problem is important when you're not near a large hospital eye center.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Holt?
Appointment availability can vary. For a routine comprehensive eye exam with a popular optometrist in Crestview or the immediate area, it's common to schedule 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially at the beginning or end of the year when insurance benefits renew. For more urgent but non-emergency concerns, many practices keep slots open for same-week or next-day appointments. New patient appointments may require more lead time. Calling in the summer or fall can sometimes yield quicker availability.