The Best Optometrists in Collins, IA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Collins. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Jason Tiefenthaler
Tiefenthaler Family Eye Care
Dr. Tiefenthaler operates one of the most highly-rated eye care practices in the Collins service area, located just 15 minutes away in Newton. The practice is known for its comprehensive approach to vision care, featuring advanced diagnostic technology and personalized treatment plans. Patients consistently praise the thorough examinations, friendly staff, and family-friendly environment. The practice serves patients of all ages and accepts most insurance plans, making quality eye care accessible to the Collins community.
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Dr. Timothy Leonard
Leonard Family Eye Care
Located in nearby Newton, Dr. Leonard's practice has built an excellent reputation for serving families throughout the Collins area. The practice emphasizes preventive eye care and uses state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses. Reviews highlight the doctor's patience with children, clear explanations of conditions, and efficient service. The practice offers extended hours for working families and maintains strong relationships with local schools and organizations in the region.
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Dr. Michael Earll
Vision Care Associates
Serving the broader central Iowa region including Collins, Vision Care Associates provides comprehensive ophthalmology and optometry services. Dr. Earll and his team offer advanced medical eye care alongside routine vision services. The practice features an on-site optical lab and the latest diagnostic technology. Patients appreciate the professional yet welcoming atmosphere and the practice's ability to handle complex eye conditions while maintaining excellent patient satisfaction ratings across multiple review platforms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Collins, IA?
In Collins, you can find local optometrists by checking with the Collins Medical Clinic for affiliated eye care providers, asking for recommendations from your primary care physician or pharmacists at the local pharmacy, and searching online directories like the Iowa Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for Story County. Due to Collins' smaller size, many residents also find providers in nearby towns like Maxwell or Nevada, which are a short drive away.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a smaller community like Collins?
When choosing an optometrist serving Collins, prioritize those who offer comprehensive eye exams for all ages, have a strong reputation for managing conditions like dry eye (common in Iowa's climate), and provide clear information on where to fill prescriptions locally or through reliable mail-order services. Since you may need to travel to a neighboring town, also consider the optometrist's office hours and flexibility for scheduling, as well as their ability to handle emergencies or urgent eye issues promptly.
Do optometrists in the Collins area accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices serving Collins and Story County accept major vision insurance plans like VSP and EyeMed, as well as medical insurance (e.g., Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa, Wellmark) for medical eye care. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be sure to ask if they also accept the health insurance offered by major local employers in the area.
What specific eye care services are typically available from optometrists near Collins, IA?
Optometrists in the Collins area typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of eye diseases (like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration), pediatric eye care, and treatment for eye infections or injuries. Given the agricultural setting, some practices may have particular experience with eye issues related to farming. For specialized surgical care, they can refer you to ophthalmologists in larger nearby cities like Ames or Des Moines.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye exam with an optometrist in Collins, and what is the typical cost?
For routine eye exams in the Collins area, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for back-to-school or year-end insurance benefits periods. The cost for a comprehensive eye exam without insurance typically ranges from $100 to $150 in this region. However, costs can vary based on the specific tests needed. Many local practices offer self-pay discounts or payment plans. Always confirm the full cost and any potential additional fees for specialized testing when you book your appointment.