The Best Optometrists in Melville, LA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Melville. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. Bordelon
Opelousas Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. Bordelon has been serving the Melville and Opelousas areas for over two decades with a focus on high-quality, personalized eye care. His practice is known for thorough comprehensive exams, advanced diagnostic technology, and a family-friendly environment. Patients consistently praise his attention to detail, gentle approach with children, and effective management of conditions like glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. The practice maintains excellent safety records and offers a wide selection of eyewear, making it a top choice for families in the region.
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Dr. James P. Fontenot
Vision Center of Opelousas
Dr. James P. Fontenot leads a well-established practice that has been providing reliable optometry services to the Melville area and surrounding communities since 2005. With high ratings for care quality and staff professionalism, the practice excels in contact lens fittings, dry eye management, and sports vision therapy. Families appreciate the comfortable, safe environment and the optometrist's expertise in handling diverse eye health needs. The practice is noted for its modern amenities and strong patient satisfaction records.
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Dr. David Soileau
Soileau Eye Care
Dr. David Soileau operates a highly-rated practice in Eunice that serves Melville residents with comprehensive eye care services. Known for exceptional patient satisfaction and safety standards, the practice offers everything from routine exams to emergency care and myopia control for children. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Soileau is recognized for his compassionate approach and use of advanced diagnostic tools. The practice receives consistent praise for its efficient service, friendly staff, and ability to address complex eye conditions effectively.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Melville, LA?
In a smaller community like Melville, word-of-mouth is often the best resource. Ask for recommendations from your primary care doctor at the local clinic, pharmacists, or neighbors. You can also search online directories like the Louisiana Optometry Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for the 71453 area code. Since Melville is a small town, you may also consider reputable optometrists in nearby larger communities such as Opelousas or Alexandria for a wider selection of providers and services.
What specific eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Melville area?
Optometrists in the Melville region 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 focus on primary eye care. For more specialized treatments or surgery, they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in larger regional medical centers. It's important to ask a local optometrist if they offer emergency eye care services, as access to immediate care can be limited in small towns.
Do optometrists in Melville accept Louisiana Medicaid or Medicare?
Acceptance of Medicaid (Healthy Louisiana) and Medicare varies by practice. Given the demographics of the area, many optometrists in and around Melville do accept these plans, but it is crucial to verify before scheduling an appointment. When calling a practice, specifically ask if they are enrolled providers for your specific plan (e.g., Louisiana Medicaid Managed Care plans like Aetna Better Health or UnitedHealthcare Community Plan). Also, inquire about any vision-specific supplemental plans they accept, as traditional Medicare does not cover routine eye exams for glasses.
What should I consider when choosing between a local Melville optometrist and one in a bigger city?
Choosing a local Melville optometrist offers convenience, personalized care, and support for the local community. They often have more flexible scheduling for established patients. However, for access to the latest diagnostic technology, a wider selection of eyewear frames on-site, or specific specialty contact lens fittings, you might consider an optometrist in a city like Alexandria. Consider your primary needs: for routine care and prescriptions, a local provider is excellent. For complex issues or if you desire a specific brand of eyewear, a short drive may be worthwhile. Always check if the out-of-town provider is still within your insurance network.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist in Melville?
Wait times can vary. For a routine comprehensive eye exam with a popular local optometrist in Melville or a nearby town, booking several weeks in advance is common, especially at the end of the year when many patients use remaining insurance benefits. New patient appointments may also have a longer lead time. For more urgent, non-emergency concerns (like a sudden change in vision), practices often reserve slots for same-day or next-day appointments for existing patients. It's best to call the office directly to inquire about their current scheduling timeline and if they have a cancellation list.