The Best Optometrists in Alma, KS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Alma. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Daniel H. Lickteig
Lickteig Family Eye Care
Dr. Lickteig has built one of the most respected independent optometry practices in northeast Kansas, serving Alma and surrounding communities for over two decades. The practice is known for its thorough comprehensive eye exams, advanced diagnostic technology, and family-friendly approach. Patients consistently praise Dr. Lickteig's detailed explanations, gentle manner with children, and commitment to finding the right vision solutions for each individual. The practice offers same-day appointments for emergencies and maintains a clean, modern facility with a wide selection of frames.
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Dr. Craig A. Brown
Brown Eyecare Associates
Dr. Brown leads a well-established optometry practice that serves patients throughout the Flint Hills region, including Alma residents. The practice is recognized for its advanced diagnostic capabilities and comprehensive approach to eye health. Specializing in managing complex conditions like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, Dr. Brown combines clinical expertise with personalized patient education. The office features state-of-the-art equipment including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. Patients consistently note the friendly staff, minimal wait times, and thorough follow-up care.
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Dr. James R. Shouse
Shouse Eye Care
Dr. Shouse operates a patient-focused optometry practice that has served the Manhattan area and surrounding communities including Alma for over a decade. The practice is particularly noted for its expertise in contact lens fittings for difficult prescriptions and its comprehensive vision therapy program. Dr. Shouse takes time to understand each patient's lifestyle and visual needs, offering customized solutions from basic vision correction to complex ocular health management. The practice maintains a comfortable, modern office with an extensive frame selection and accepts most insurance plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Alma, KS?
In a smaller community like Alma, word-of-mouth is often the best resource. Ask for recommendations from your primary care doctor at the Wabaunsee County Health Department or from neighbors and friends. You can also search the Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry's online licensee database to verify credentials. Local optometrists often have deep community ties, so checking with local pharmacies or the Alma City Library for bulletin board postings can also be helpful.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving Alma, Kansas?
Optometrists in the Alma area typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the rural setting, many also prioritize managing ocular diseases, as patients may have longer travel times to ophthalmologists in larger cities like Topeka or Manhattan. Some may offer pediatric eye care and have connections with local schools for vision screenings.
Do optometrists in Alma accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Alma and the surrounding Wabaunsee County area accept major medical insurance (like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, Medicare) and vision plans (like VSP or EyeMed). However, due to the limited number of providers, it's crucial to call ahead and verify directly with the optometrist's office. Be sure to ask if they are in-network for your specific plan and what your co-pay or deductible might be for an exam and materials.
What should I consider when choosing between the optometrists available in the Alma area?
Key considerations for Alma residents include the optometrist's experience with rural and often older patient demographics, office hours that accommodate farming or shift work schedules, and the availability of emergency care. Also, consider whether the practice has an on-site optical lab for quicker glasses turnaround or if they work closely with a specific optical retailer. Proximity is important, but also check if they have modern diagnostic technology for thorough exams without needing to travel far.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist in Alma, KS?
Appointment availability can vary. With a smaller pool of eye care providers serving Alma and the wider county, it's common to need to schedule routine exams several weeks, or even a couple of months, in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. For more urgent concerns, practices often keep slots open for same-day or next-day appointments. It's best to call early, and if your preferred optometrist has a long wait, ask if they have a cancellation list you can join.