The Best Optometrists in Bernard, IA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Bernard. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. O'Meara
O'Meara Eye Care
Dr. O'Meara is highly regarded for his exceptional care quality and patient-centered approach, with over two decades of experience serving the Dubuque area, including Bernard. His practice utilizes advanced diagnostic technology and emphasizes safety, thorough exams, and family satisfaction. Patients consistently praise his attentive staff and modern amenities, making it a top choice for comprehensive eye care.
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Dr. David A. Kies
Dubuque Family Eye Care
Dr. Kies leads a practice known for its strong safety records and high family satisfaction, offering personalized eye care with a focus on preventative health. With nearly two decades of experience, he provides reliable services for all ages, supported by a qualified team and positive reviews highlighting his compassionate care and efficient service.
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Dr. Thomas R. Welu
Welu Eye Care
Dr. Welu is recognized for his expertise in specialized services like vision therapy and has a proven track record of safety and excellent patient outcomes. Serving Bernard and the broader Dubuque region, his practice is praised for its friendly environment, advanced treatment options, and commitment to family-centered care, with many reviews noting his thoroughness and professional staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Bernard, IA?
Since Bernard is a small, unincorporated community, most residents look for optometrists in nearby larger towns. The closest options are typically in Dyersville, about 10 minutes away, which has several established practices. You can also search for providers in Epworth, Farley, or Cascade. Checking with your insurance provider's directory or asking for recommendations at Bernard's local pharmacy or from neighbors is a great way to find trusted eye doctors serving the area.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Bernard, IA area?
Given the rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and availability for appointments that fit a farming or local work schedule. Look for practices in Dyersville or Dubuque County that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage common conditions like dry eye (aggravated by Iowa's seasons), and have a good selection of frames. It's also wise to choose one who accepts a wide range of insurance plans common in Iowa, such as Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, and who can provide referrals to ophthalmologists in Dubuque if specialized care is needed.
Do optometrists near Bernard, IA accept walk-in appointments for eye emergencies?
Most optometry practices in the area, such as those in Dyersville, operate by appointment. However, many do accommodate urgent eye care needs for existing patients. If you have a sudden eye injury or severe infection, it's best to call your optometrist's office directly. They can often fit you in the same day. For after-hours emergencies, residents are typically directed to urgent care centers in Dyersville or the emergency room at MercyOne Dyersville Medical Center.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists serving Bernard, IA residents?
Optometrists in nearby towns provide full-scope primary eye care. This includes comprehensive eye exams for all ages, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis and management of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome—all relevant to the local community and agricultural workforce. Many also offer pre- and post-operative care for patients who have cataract surgery at facilities in Dubuque. Some practices may have advanced diagnostic technology like retinal imaging.
How can I schedule an eye exam if I live in Bernard and don't have reliable transportation?
Transportation can be a challenge in rural Iowa. First, check if the optometry office offers telehealth consultations for preliminary advice. When an in-person exam is necessary, some of the larger practices in Dyersville or Dubuque may have information on local transportation services for medical appointments. It's also worth asking if they offer Saturday or extended hours to coordinate a ride with a family member or friend. Community resources or senior centers in Dubuque County might also assist with transportation arrangements for residents.