The Best Optometrists in Hartford, IL
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Hartford. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark A. Bussen
Bussen Family Eyecare
Dr. Mark A. Bussen leads Bussen Family Eyecare, a highly respected practice known for its exceptional patient care and family-friendly approach. With over two decades of experience, the practice emphasizes thorough eye health evaluations, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized treatment plans. Patients consistently praise the staff's professionalism, short wait times, and compassionate service, particularly for children and seniors. The practice maintains a strong safety record, uses state-of-the-art equipment, and offers a wide range of eyewear options. Located just a short drive from Hartford, it serves the broader Madison County area with reliability and high satisfaction ratings.
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Dr. James R. Kimmey
Alton Eye Care Center
Dr. James R. Kimmey at Alton Eye Care Center is renowned for his expertise in managing complex eye conditions and providing comprehensive vision care. The practice has built a strong reputation over 18 years for its meticulous attention to detail, modern facilities, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Services include advanced dry eye therapies and co-management for surgical procedures, with a focus on patient education and preventive care. Reviews highlight the center's clean environment, efficient scheduling, and ability to handle emergencies promptly. Serving Hartford and surrounding communities, it is a top choice for families seeking dependable, high-quality optometric care.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Brien
Granite City Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. O'Brien operates Granite City Eye Care, a well-established practice celebrated for its comprehensive services and patient-centered approach. With 15 years of experience, the practice specializes in vision therapy and sports vision, catering to both routine and specialized needs. It features a full-service optical lab, experienced support staff, and a commitment to using the latest technology for accurate diagnoses. Patient feedback frequently commends the practice for its affordable pricing, minimal wait times, and excellent follow-up care. Conveniently located near Hartford, it provides accessible, top-tier optometric services with a focus on long-term eye health and satisfaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Hartford, IL?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care doctor at a local clinic or from friends and family in the Hartford area. You can also search the Illinois Optometric Association's online directory for licensed optometrists near you. Checking online reviews for practices in Hartford or nearby communities like Wood River or Alton can provide insights into patient experiences. Many Hartford residents also find it convenient to visit optometrists in neighboring towns that offer a wider selection of practices and services.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists serving the Hartford community?
Optometrists in and around Hartford, IL, provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. They also manage and treat conditions such as dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease, which are relevant to the local population. Most practices offer contact lens fittings, including for astigmatism and presbyopia. Given Hartford's proximity to industrial areas, some optometrists may specialize in safety eyewear prescriptions and fittings. They can also provide pre- and post-operative care for patients considering cataract or LASIK surgery, often referring to surgical centers in larger nearby cities.
Do optometrists in Hartford accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in the Hartford area accept a range of vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as major medical insurance providers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Medicare, and Medicaid. It is crucial to call the specific optometrist's office in Hartford or the surrounding Riverbend region before your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be sure to ask if the exam is billed to medical or vision insurance, as this can affect your coverage for health-related eye issues versus routine vision checks.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Hartford?
Consider the optometrist's experience, credentials, and areas of specialization, especially if you have specific needs like pediatric eye care, diabetic retinopathy management, or hard-to-fit contact lenses. Evaluate the practice's location and hours for convenience within the Hartford area. Check the technology they use; modern equipment like digital retinal imaging can enhance diagnostic accuracy. Read patient reviews to gauge the quality of care and customer service. Finally, ensure the office staff is helpful in navigating insurance claims and scheduling, which is particularly important in a smaller community where options might be more limited.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist in Hartford?
For a routine eye exam, booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance is common for optometrists serving Hartford and the immediate Riverbend area. However, availability can vary significantly. New patient appointments may require more lead time, especially with popular practices. For urgent concerns like eye infections, sudden vision changes, or injury, many offices in the region will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well in advance, particularly if you need to coordinate time off work, as some local practices may have limited evening or weekend hours.