The Best Optometrists in Carterville, IL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Carterville. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark A. Slightom
Carbondale Eye Care
Dr. Mark A. Slightom at Carbondale Eye Care is highly regarded for his exceptional patient care and use of advanced diagnostic technology. With over two decades of experience, he specializes in comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and managing conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. The practice is known for its family-friendly environment, high safety standards, and personalized approach, earning consistent praise for staff expertise and patient satisfaction. Serving Carterville and the broader Southern Illinois region, they offer modern amenities including digital retinal imaging and a wide selection of eyewear.
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Dr. Jeffrey D. Barger
Marion Eye Center
Dr. Jeffrey D. Barger leads Marion Eye Center with a focus on comprehensive and emergency eye care, serving Carterville and surrounding areas. With nearly 20 years of experience, he provides services ranging from routine exams to specialized treatments for dry eye and LASIK consultations. The practice is celebrated for its compassionate staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and strong safety record. Patients frequently highlight the comfortable atmosphere, efficient service, and Dr. Barger's dedication to explaining conditions clearly, making it a top choice for families and individuals seeking reliable optometric care.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Brien
Southern Illinois Eye Center
Dr. Michael J. O'Brien at Southern Illinois Eye Center is known for his expertise in cataract evaluations, myopia control, and comprehensive vision care. With 16 years in practice, he emphasizes patient education and uses cutting-edge technology to ensure accurate diagnoses and treatments. The center serves Carterville and the wider region, offering a full range of optical services and a friendly, professional staff. Reviews consistently praise the practice for its thorough exams, clean facilities, and high level of family satisfaction, making it a trusted option for routine and specialized eye care needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Carterville, IL?
Start by checking with the Carterville Chamber of Commerce for local business listings, or search online directories like Healthgrades or Zocdoc filtered for Carterville. Many residents also get recommendations from their primary care physician at Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) or from friends and family in the Williamson County area. Look for practices that have been serving the community for several years and check their online reviews for patient experiences specific to the Carterville area.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Carterville?
Optometrists in Carterville provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's proximity to SIU Carbondale, some practices may also specialize in myopia control for children or offer sports vision services. Most Carterville optometrists can diagnose and co-manage post-cataract surgery with local ophthalmologists, but for complex surgical needs, they often refer patients to larger centers in Marion or Carbondale.
Do Carterville optometrists accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Carterville accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance from providers common in Southern Illinois, such as BCBS of Illinois, Health Alliance, and Medicare. It's always best to call the specific office ahead of your appointment. Some smaller, independent practices in Carterville may also offer affordable self-pay options or in-house vision plans for patients without insurance.
What should I consider when choosing between independent and retail optometrists in Carterville?
Carterville has both independent optometry clinics and optometrists located within retail optical stores. Independent practices often offer more personalized, continuity of care and may have longer appointment times. Retail locations (like those in shopping plazas near the highway) might offer greater convenience for one-stop shopping and evening/weekend hours. Consider your priorities: for complex eye health management, an independent practice might be preferable, while for routine updates and quick service, a retail location could be suitable.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam in Carterville, IL?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam in Carterville, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. New patient appointments may require more lead time. However, many Carterville optometrists keep slots open for urgent care needs, such as eye infections, sudden vision changes, or foreign body removal, often offering same-day or next-day appointments for these situations. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well before the start of the school year or your insurance benefits reset, as calendars fill up quickly during those periods.