The Best Optometrists in Blackey, KY
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Blackey. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Scott Mullins
Mullins Eye Care Center
Dr. Scott Mullins operates one of the most highly-rated optometry practices in southeastern Kentucky, serving patients throughout the Blackey area. With over 15 years of experience, his practice is known for comprehensive eye care services including advanced glaucoma testing and diabetic eye examinations. Patients consistently praise the thoroughness of exams, modern equipment, and friendly staff. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible scheduling for families.
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Dr. William Hylton
Hylton Family Eye Care
Dr. William Hylton leads a family-focused optometry practice that serves the Blackey community with comprehensive vision care. The practice is particularly noted for its emergency eye care services and personalized approach to vision therapy. With modern diagnostic equipment and a comfortable office environment, patients appreciate the detailed explanations of eye health conditions and the wide selection of eyewear options. The practice has built a strong reputation for reliability and patient-centered care.
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Dr. James Brown
Appalachian Eye Care
Dr. James Brown operates Appalachian Eye Care, serving patients from Blackey and surrounding communities for nearly two decades. The practice offers advanced diagnostic services including cataract evaluations and works closely with ophthalmologists for surgical co-management. Known for their expertise in managing complex eye conditions and providing low vision services, the practice receives consistent praise for professional staff and comprehensive care approach. They maintain modern equipment and offer extensive eyewear selections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there optometrists located directly in Blackey, KY, or will I need to travel to a nearby town?
Blackey is a very small city, and there are typically no full-time optometry practices located directly within the town limits. Residents usually travel to nearby larger towns such as Whitesburg, Hazard, or Harlan for comprehensive eye care. It's best to search for optometrists in "Letcher County" or these surrounding areas and plan for a short drive.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist serving the Blackey, KY area?
Given the rural nature of the area, key factors include travel distance, office hours that accommodate your schedule, and the range of services offered. Look for practices that explicitly mention serving Letcher County and surrounding communities. Check if they offer advanced diagnostic technology for conditions like glaucoma or diabetes, which are prevalent in the region, and if they have strong relationships with local ophthalmologists for referrals if needed.
Do optometrists near Blackey, KY accept Kentucky Medicaid (Passport) or Medicare for eye exams?
Yes, many optometry practices in the surrounding counties like Letcher, Perry, and Harlan accept Kentucky Medicaid (including managed care plans like Passport) and Medicare for medically necessary eye exams. It is crucial to call the specific office ahead of time to verify they are currently accepting new patients with your specific insurance plan, as provider networks can change. Be sure to ask if the exam is covered for a specific concern (like diabetes) or for a routine vision check, as coverage differs.
Can I get an emergency eye care appointment near Blackey, KY, for issues like an injury or sudden vision loss?
For true eye emergencies, the nearest hospital emergency room (such as in Whitesburg or Hazard) is the first point of contact. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues like a foreign object, severe infection, or sudden floaters, you should call local optometry offices immediately. Many practices in the region will work to accommodate urgent cases, even for new patients, but availability can be limited. It's wise to identify a practice beforehand so you know who to call.
How far in advance do I typically need to book a routine eye exam with an optometrist near Blackey, KY?
Appointment wait times can vary. For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's common to schedule 2 to 6 weeks in advance, especially for popular practitioners or if you need a specific time like a Saturday. New patient appointments may have longer wait times. Calling in the spring or early summer (outside of the back-to-school rush) can sometimes yield sooner appointments. Some offices may also have cancellation lists you can join for an earlier slot.