The Best Optometrists in Jacksonville, FL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Jacksonville. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Jacksonville Eye Center
Independent
Jacksonville Eye Center is a highly regarded independent practice known for its exceptional care quality and advanced diagnostic technology. With over two decades of service, the practice boasts board-certified optometrists who provide personalized eye exams, including specialized services for children and glaucoma management. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, modern amenities, and thorough safety protocols, resulting in high family satisfaction and numerous positive reviews highlighting their reliable and compassionate approach.
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Florida Eye Specialists
Independent
Florida Eye Specialists has built a strong reputation for comprehensive eye care with a focus on family-friendly services and state-of-the-art equipment. Established in 2004, the practice emphasizes safety and patient education, offering services like diabetic eye exams and dry eye management. Reviews frequently highlight the knowledgeable staff, clean facilities, and high levels of patient satisfaction, making it a top choice for families seeking dependable optometric care in the Jacksonville area.
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VisionFirst Eye Center
VisionFirst Management
VisionFirst Eye Center is a trusted chain with a strong local presence in Jacksonville, known for providing affordable, high-quality eye care since 2007. The practice features experienced optometrists and modern amenities, including a wide selection of eyewear and emergency services. Patient reviews often commend the efficient service, safety measures, and family-oriented approach, with many families returning for routine care due to the consistent satisfaction and accessible locations throughout the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Jacksonville, FL?
Start by checking online directories like the Florida Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, which filters by Jacksonville. Reading verified patient reviews on Google, Yelp, or Healthgrades for local clinics is also crucial. Many Jacksonville residents get strong referrals from their primary care physicians at networks like Baptist Health or Mayo Clinic Florida. Additionally, consider optometrists affiliated with the University of North Florida's pre-optometry program, as they often stay current with the latest practices.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Jacksonville for my family?
Look for a practice that offers comprehensive family eye care, including pediatric optometry. Given Jacksonville's spread-out nature, consider location and convenience—practices in areas like Mandarin, Southside, or the Beaches often serve specific communities. Ensure they provide a wide range of services: routine exams, contact lens fittings (important for our sunny, active lifestyle), and management of conditions like dry eye, which can be exacerbated by Florida's climate. Checking if they have evening or weekend hours to accommodate school and work schedules is also beneficial.
Do Jacksonville optometrists typically accept vision insurance, and how does it work?
Most optometry practices in Jacksonville accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as some medical insurance for health-related eye issues. It's always best to call the office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your specific plan. Be aware that insurance often covers the annual comprehensive exam but may have separate allowances or discounts for frames and lenses. Some Jacksonville practices also offer in-house savings plans for patients without insurance.
What are the common costs for an eye exam with an optometrist in Jacksonville without insurance?
In Jacksonville, the out-of-pocket cost for a comprehensive eye exam typically ranges from $80 to $150, depending on the optometrist's expertise and the clinic's location. A basic contact lens fitting can add $50 to $125 to that fee. Some practices, including larger retail chains in areas like St. Johns Town Center, may offer promotional exam prices. For the most accurate pricing, it's recommended to call a few local offices directly, as costs can vary between neighborhoods like Riverside, San Marco, and Orange Park.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with a popular optometrist in Jacksonville?
For a routine eye exam with a well-regarded independent optometrist or a specialist in Jacksonville, booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance is common, especially at the start of the school year or before the end of the year when insurance benefits reset. Appointments at large retail optical stores may have more availability, sometimes within a week. For urgent issues, many Jacksonville practices keep slots open for same-day or next-day emergencies. Utilizing online booking tools, which many local clinics now offer, can help you find the earliest available appointment.