The Best Optometrists in Gouldsboro, ME
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Gouldsboro. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James R. Brown
Coastal Eye Care
Coastal Eye Care is a highly regarded practice known for its patient-focused approach and advanced eye care services. Dr. Brown has over two decades of experience and is praised for thorough examinations, use of modern diagnostic technology, and a wide selection of eyewear. The practice maintains excellent safety records, offers family-friendly amenities, and has consistently high patient satisfaction ratings for its compassionate and professional staff.
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Dr. Susan K. Lee
Bar Harbor Optometry
Bar Harbor Optometry is celebrated for its personalized care and expertise in managing complex eye conditions. Dr. Lee leads a team that utilizes state-of-the-art equipment for comprehensive services, including emergency care and vision therapy. The practice emphasizes patient education, safety, and comfort, with numerous reviews highlighting the staff's professionalism and the office's inviting atmosphere. It serves Gouldsboro residents with reliability and high family satisfaction.
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Dr. Richard M. White
Down East Eye Care
Down East Eye Care is a trusted practice with a strong community presence, offering comprehensive eye care and specialized services like low vision and sports vision. Dr. White is known for his diagnostic skills and patient education, supported by a team that prioritizes safety and modern amenities. The practice has a proven track record of family satisfaction, with reviews often noting the thorough exams and friendly, efficient service for Gouldsboro and nearby areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there optometrists located directly in Gouldsboro, ME, or will I need to travel to a nearby town?
Gouldsboro is a small coastal town, and you will likely need to travel to a nearby community for optometry services. The closest options are typically in Ellsworth, which is about a 30-minute drive away and serves as the regional hub for healthcare services in the area. Some residents also travel to Bar Harbor or Bangor for a wider selection of practices. It's advisable to search for "optometrists in Downeast Maine" or "Ellsworth area optometrists" to find the most convenient locations.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Gouldsboro area?
Given the rural nature of Downeast Maine, key factors include travel distance, scope of services, and appointment availability. Look for an optometrist whose practice offers comprehensive eye exams, manages ocular diseases (important for an older demographic), and has an optical shop on-site to minimize extra trips. Checking if they have experience with conditions prevalent in coastal communities, like sun-related damage or dry eye from wind, can be beneficial. Reading local reviews or asking for recommendations at the Gouldsboro Town Office or local pharmacies can also guide your choice.
Do optometrists near Gouldsboro accept MaineCare or specific vision insurance plans?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. Most optometry offices in the Ellsworth region accept major medical insurance (like Medicare) and many vision plans (such as VSP or EyeMed). For MaineCare (Maine's Medicaid), it's crucial to call the specific optometrist's office in advance to confirm they are currently accepting new MaineCare patients, as provider participation can change. When scheduling an appointment from Gouldsboro, always have your insurance information ready to verify coverage and avoid unexpected costs.
Can I get an urgent eye care appointment near Gouldsboro, and what qualifies as an emergency?
For urgent concerns like sudden vision loss, severe pain, or a foreign object in the eye, you should call a nearby optometry or ophthalmology clinic in Ellsworth immediately. Some practices reserve slots for same-day emergencies. For true emergencies outside business hours, residents of Gouldsboro are typically directed to the Emergency Department at Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital in Ellsworth, which can provide initial stabilization. It's wise to save the contact information of a few local optometrists in your phone for quick access.
What specialized eye care services might be important for Gouldsboro residents to look for?
Given Gouldsboro's aging population and active outdoor lifestyle, seek optometrists who offer specialized services. These include management of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, which are common with older age. Additionally, services like fitting specialty contact lenses for dry eyes or providing high-quality, durable sunglasses and prescription sports eyewear for fishing, boating, and hiking are practical considerations. Some practices may also offer telehealth consultations for follow-ups, which can reduce travel time from Gouldsboro during the winter months.