The Best Optometrists in Ellis, KS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ellis. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Jason Brull
Hays Vision Center
Dr. Jason Brull leads Hays Vision Center, serving Ellis and surrounding communities with exceptional comprehensive eye care. The practice is known for its advanced diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. Patients consistently praise Dr. Brull's thorough examinations, clear communication, and family-friendly approach. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers an extensive selection of eyewear. Their commitment to patient education and preventive care makes them a top choice for families throughout the region.
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Dr. Ryan Unrein
Hays Eye Care Center
Dr. Ryan Unrein operates Hays Eye Care Center, providing comprehensive optometric services to Ellis area residents. The practice specializes in both routine vision care and medical eye conditions, with particular expertise in diabetic retinopathy management and dry eye syndrome treatment. Patients frequently mention the friendly staff, minimal wait times, and Dr. Unrein's attentive approach to addressing individual vision concerns. The clinic features modern examination equipment and offers convenient appointment scheduling for busy families.
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Dr. Scott R. Simpson
Hays Regional Eye Center
Dr. Scott R. Simpson established Hays Regional Eye Center with a focus on providing advanced medical eye care to western Kansas communities including Ellis. The practice is recognized for its expertise in managing complex ocular conditions and offering specialized services like scleral contact lenses and pre/post-operative surgical care. Multiple patient reviews highlight Dr. Simpson's diagnostic accuracy and compassionate bedside manner. The center operates with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and maintains strong relationships with regional ophthalmologists for comprehensive patient care coordination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Ellis, KS, and what should I look for?
In Ellis, you can find local optometrists by searching online directories, checking with the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, or asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Hays Medical Center's Ellis clinic or from neighbors. Look for a practitioner who is licensed in Kansas, has a clean record with the Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry, and offers the specific services you need, such as comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, or management of conditions like dry eye, which can be common in the region's climate. Considering the smaller population, many residents also find success by looking at optometrists in nearby Hays, which offers more options just a short drive away.
Do optometrists in Ellis, KS, typically accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Ellis and the surrounding Ellis County area accept a range of vision and medical insurance plans. Common providers in the region include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, Medicare, and Medicaid (KanCare). However, due to the limited number of practices in a small town like Ellis, it is crucial to call the specific optometrist's office ahead of time to verify they are in-network with your plan. Some residents may find that for specialized services or a wider network, they visit optometrists in Hays, which may have more insurance partnerships. Always bring your insurance card to your appointment.
What eye care services are typically available from an optometrist in Ellis?
Optometrists serving the Ellis community typically provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose vision issues (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) and eye health problems like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Given the agricultural and outdoor lifestyle in Ellis County, they are also adept at diagnosing and managing conditions related to sun exposure and dry, dusty environments. Services often include prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, treatment of eye infections and injuries, and pre- and post-operative care for patients who need surgery referred to an ophthalmologist in Hays or Salina. Some may also offer pediatric eye exams.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist in Ellis, KS?
Appointment availability in Ellis can vary. For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's advisable to call at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially before the start of the school year or during the busy season after people have met their insurance deductibles. For more urgent concerns, such as a sudden eye infection or injury, most practices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. Be aware that with fewer providers in a small town, schedules can fill quickly, so planning ahead is key. Some clinics may also have longer wait times during harvest seasons when the local community is especially busy.
If I need specialized eye care or surgery, will an Ellis optometrist refer me to a specialist?
Yes, absolutely. Optometrists in Ellis are trained to diagnose a wide range of eye conditions. If you require specialized surgical care, such as cataract surgery, LASIK, or treatment for a retinal disease, your local Ellis optometrist will provide a referral to a trusted ophthalmologist or surgical center. The most common referral destinations are in Hays, which has several ophthalmology practices, or in larger cities like Salina or Wichita for highly specialized procedures. Your Ellis optometrist will typically coordinate care and manage your pre- and post-operative follow-ups locally, saving you travel for routine check-ups.