The Best Optometrists in Charleston, IL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Charleston. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Charleston Eye Care
Independent Practice
Charleston Eye Care is a highly-rated independent practice known for its exceptional patient care and use of modern technology. With over 18 years of service, they offer comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and specialized pediatric care. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, thorough examinations, and family-friendly environment, highlighting their strong safety records and high satisfaction rates.
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Mattoon Eye Center
Independent Practice
Mattoon Eye Center has been serving the Coles County area for over 23 years with top-rated eye care services. They are recognized for their advanced diagnostic equipment, experienced optometrists, and wide selection of eyewear. The practice maintains high family satisfaction and safety records, with reviews emphasizing personalized care and reliable follow-up services for all ages.
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Effingham Eye Associates
Regional Chain
Effingham Eye Associates is a well-established regional practice with a strong reputation for comprehensive eye care. Offering services from routine exams to vision therapy, they have high patient satisfaction ratings and a track record of safety and quality care for over 24 years. Their team of licensed optometrists is known for thorough assessments and a patient-centered approach, making them a trusted choice for families in the broader Charleston service area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Charleston, IL?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center or from friends and neighbors in the Charleston community. You can also search the online directory of the Illinois Optometric Association, filtering for Charleston. Checking reviews on local platforms and verifying that the optometrist is licensed with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation are key steps. Many residents also trust established practices that have been serving Coles County for years.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Charleston?
Optometrists in Charleston provide comprehensive eye exams for all ages, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the agricultural and university setting, many practices also specialize in sports vision for EIU athletes, computer vision syndrome for students and professionals, and safety eyewear. Some clinics may offer advanced diagnostic testing, but for complex surgical needs, patients are typically referred to ophthalmologists in nearby Mattoon or Champaign.
Do optometrists in Charleston, IL accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry offices in Charleston accept a wide range of insurance plans commonly held in the area, including those from State of Illinois employees, BCBS of Illinois, Medicare, and VSP. It's very important to call the specific practice ahead of your appointment. Be sure to ask if they are in-network for your plan and what your copay or deductible might be for an exam and materials. Some clinics near the Eastern Illinois University campus may also have experience with student health insurance plans.
What should I consider when choosing between the optometrists in Charleston?
Consider the optometrist's experience, office hours, and location convenience relative to your home, work, or EIU campus. Check if they offer the specific services you need, such as pediatric eye care, emergency appointments, or a wide selection of frames. The atmosphere of the practice and friendliness of the staff are also important. Many Charleston residents value a personal touch and a doctor who takes time to explain conditions, so reading patient reviews can offer insight into the patient experience at different local offices.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam in Charleston, and what should I bring?
For a routine eye exam in Charleston, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common, though some practices may have sooner availability. New patient appointments might require more lead time. Be sure to bring your current glasses or contact lenses, a list of any medications, your vision and/or medical insurance cards, and a form of ID. If you have a specific concern, bringing any relevant medical records can be helpful. Drivers should also note that a vision exam is required for an Illinois driver's license renewal, so planning ahead is wise.