The Best Optometrists in Gem, KS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Gem. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Richard L. Pape
Pape Eye Care
Dr. Richard L. Pape operates Pape Eye Care, a highly-rated practice known for its personalized care and advanced diagnostic technology. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and managing conditions like glaucoma. The practice emphasizes family-friendly services, including pediatric eye care, and has a strong reputation for safety and patient satisfaction in the Phillipsburg area, serving Gem and surrounding communities.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Dell
O'Dell Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. O'Dell leads O'Dell Eye Care, a trusted practice in Norton with a focus on thorough eye health evaluations and modern treatment options. With two decades of experience, he offers services like glaucoma testing, dry eye management, and optical dispensing. The practice is praised for its attentive staff, clean facilities, and high patient satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for residents of Gem and nearby regions.
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Dr. John A. Braun
Hays Vision Center
Dr. John A. Braun at Hays Vision Center provides expert optometric care with a commitment to safety and advanced technology. With 18 years of experience, the practice offers comprehensive services, including cataract evaluations and emergency eye care, and is known for its friendly environment and high-quality patient interactions. Serving a broad area that includes Gem, the center has consistently high ratings for its care quality and family-oriented approach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist serving the Gem, KS area?
Given Gem's small size, you may need to look at optometrists in nearby larger towns like Colby, Goodland, or Oakley. A good starting point is to search online for "optometrist near Gem, KS" or check with the Thomas County or Sherman County health departments for local referrals. Asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Gem Medical Clinic or from neighbors can also lead you to trusted eye care professionals in the region.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in or near Gem, Kansas?
When choosing an optometrist in this rural area, consider their proximity and availability for routine and urgent care. Look for practices that offer comprehensive services, including treatment for dry eye (common in Kansas's climate), diabetic eye exams, and pediatric optometry, so you don't have to travel far for different needs. Check if they have modern diagnostic technology. It's also wise to verify they accept your vision or medical insurance, as provider networks can be limited in western Kansas.
Do optometrists in the Gem area accept walk-in appointments for eye emergencies?
Most optometry practices in rural Kansas, including those serving Gem, operate by appointment. However, many will accommodate true eye emergencies (like sudden vision loss, injury, or severe pain) if you call ahead. It's crucial to have the contact information for a nearby optometrist saved. For after-hours emergencies, residents are typically directed to the emergency room at Colby or Goodland, where an on-call ophthalmologist may be consulted.
Can I get a comprehensive eye exam and purchase glasses all in one place near Gem?
Yes, many optometry practices in the larger towns surrounding Gem, such as Colby, offer full-service care. This includes comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and an on-site optical shop with a wide selection of frames. This one-stop-shop model is convenient for Gem residents to minimize travel. Some practices may even offer direct shipping of contact lenses to your home in Gem. Be sure to ask about these services when scheduling your appointment.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam in Gem, KS, and is insurance widely accepted?
The cost for a routine comprehensive eye exam in the Gem area typically ranges from $80 to $150 without insurance, though prices can vary by practice. Most optometrists in northwest Kansas accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers) for medically necessary visits. It is highly recommended to confirm insurance acceptance and any out-of-pocket costs specific to your plan when booking an appointment, as options are more limited than in urban areas.