The Best Optometrists in Columbus, KS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Columbus. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Steven R. Hite
Hite Eye Center
Hite Eye Center is a top-rated practice serving the Columbus area with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Hite is known for his expertise in advanced diagnostic techniques and personalized care. The practice maintains a 4.8-star rating from 142 reviews, reflecting high patient satisfaction, modern amenities, and a strong safety record. Services include comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and specialized pediatric care, making it a trusted choice for families.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Dell
O'Dell Eye Care
O'Dell Eye Care has been serving the Columbus region since 2006, with Dr. O'Dell bringing 18 years of experience. The practice is praised for its thorough exams, patient education, and friendly staff, earning a 4.7-star rating from 98 reviews. It features state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses and offers a range of services, including dry eye treatment and cataract co-management, ensuring high-quality, family-focused care.
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Dr. Jennifer L. Brown
Brown Vision Clinic
Brown Vision Clinic, established in 2012, is renowned for its compassionate and advanced care, serving Columbus and surrounding areas. Dr. Brown has 12 years of experience and specializes in vision therapy and low vision aids. With a 4.6-star rating from 75 reviews, the clinic emphasizes family satisfaction, safety, and comprehensive services, including emergency eye care. Patients appreciate the personalized approach and modern facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Columbus, KS?
In Columbus, KS, you can start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Columbus Medical Center or from friends and family in Cherokee County. Checking online reviews for local practices on platforms like Google is also helpful. The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce may have a list of local healthcare providers. Many residents also rely on word-of-mouth referrals within the community to find trusted eye care professionals.
What specific eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Columbus?
Optometrists in Columbus, KS, generally provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the rural setting, many practices focus on essential primary eye care. Some may offer pediatric eye exams for local families. For more specialized surgical care, such as cataract surgery, patients are often referred to ophthalmologists in larger nearby cities like Joplin or Pittsburg.
Do optometrists in Columbus, KS, accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Columbus accept a range of vision and medical insurance plans common to the region, including Medicare, Medicaid (KanCare), and plans from major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. It is highly recommended to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Some smaller local practices may also offer affordable self-pay options or payment plans for patients without insurance.
What should I look for when choosing between the optometrists available in Columbus?
When choosing an optometrist in Columbus, consider their experience, office hours, and proximity to your home or work. Check if they have the technology for modern diagnostic testing. It's also important to see if they have a good rapport with patients of all ages, especially if you need family eye care. Since options within the city limits may be limited, also consider their referral network to specialists in case you need advanced care not available locally.
How far in advance do I typically need to schedule an eye exam in Columbus, KS?
Appointment availability in Columbus can vary. For a routine eye exam, it's advisable to call a few weeks in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays if offered. For more urgent concerns, many local optometrists will try to accommodate patients quickly. During back-to-school season or the end of the year when insurance benefits reset, schedules may fill up faster, so planning ahead is beneficial.