The Best Optometrists in Orange Lake, FL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Orange Lake. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James R. Gills
St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute
Dr. James R. Gills is a world-renowned ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon with over 25 years of experience serving the Ocala area, including Orange Lake residents. While technically an ophthalmologist, his practice provides comprehensive eye care services including routine exams. The institute is known for exceptional patient satisfaction, state-of-the-art technology, and pioneering surgical techniques. Patients consistently praise the thoroughness of exams, friendly staff, and outstanding surgical outcomes. The practice maintains the highest safety standards with advanced diagnostic equipment and highly trained clinical teams.
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Dr. Michael A. Rizzuti
Marion Eye Center
Dr. Michael Rizzuti leads Marion Eye Center, serving Orange Lake and surrounding communities for over 15 years. The practice specializes in family eye care with particular expertise in pediatric optometry and contact lens fittings. Patients consistently highlight the doctor's patience, thorough explanations, and excellent bedside manner. The center features modern diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and offers comprehensive care for various eye conditions. Multiple reviews mention how well they handle children's exams and complex prescription needs.
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Dr. Christopher L. Walton
Ocala Eye
Dr. Christopher Walton at Ocala Eye provides comprehensive optometric services to Orange Lake residents with over 12 years of clinical experience. The practice is known for its extensive medical eye care services including management of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Patients frequently commend the practice for efficient scheduling, minimal wait times, and detailed explanations of eye health conditions. The facility features advanced diagnostic equipment and offers both routine vision care and complex medical eye management. The practice maintains strong relationships with local ophthalmologists for surgical referrals when needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Orange Lake, FL?
Start by searching online directories like the Florida Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for the 32686 area. Ask for recommendations from neighbors in communities like Orange Lake Resort or from local primary care providers. Many residents also find well-reviewed practices in nearby towns like Summerfield or The Villages, which are a short drive away and offer comprehensive eye care services.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Orange Lake area?
Optometrists in and around Orange Lake provide comprehensive services crucial for the local community, including full eye exams for glasses and contacts, management of age-related conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, dry eye treatment, and pre- and post-operative care for procedures done at nearby surgical centers. Given the active retiree population, many practices also specialize in low vision aids and detailed retinal health monitoring.
Do optometrists near Orange Lake, FL accept Medicare and other common insurance plans?
Yes, most optometry practices in the area accept Medicare for covered services like annual diabetic eye exams or glaucoma testing, along with major vision insurance plans like VSP and EyeMed. It's always best to call the specific office in Summerfield, The Villages, or Ocala to verify they are in-network with your plan, as coverage for routine vision exams (for glasses/contacts) can differ from medical eye care under Medicare.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Orange Lake community?
Consider an optometrist's experience with age-related eye conditions, which are prevalent in the area. Look for convenient location and hours, especially if you live within Orange Lake Resort and prefer minimal travel. Check if they have a modern optical dispensary on-site for glasses, offer contact lens fittings, and provide emergency care for issues like sudden vision changes. Reading reviews from other local residents can also provide insight into their bedside manner and practice efficiency.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Orange Lake?
For routine exams, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common, especially during the winter months when seasonal residents are present. For more urgent medical concerns, many practices keep slots open for same-day or next-day appointments. New patient appointments may require more lead time. To secure a convenient time, especially if you need an appointment that fits around community activities or golf outings, it's advisable to call practices in early fall or schedule your next appointment before leaving the office.