The Best Optometrists in Houlton, ME
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Houlton. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David R. Hafford
Houlton Eye Care
Dr. David R. Hafford has been a trusted optometrist in Houlton for over two decades, providing personalized and family-focused eye care. The practice is known for its high safety standards, modern diagnostic technology, and excellent patient satisfaction. Services include comprehensive exams for all ages, contact lens management, and urgent eye care, with a reputation for thoroughness and compassionate service in the local community.
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Northern Maine Eye Care
Independent Practice
Serving Houlton and the wider Aroostook County region, Northern Maine Eye Care is highly rated for its comprehensive and advanced optometric services. With nearly 20 years of operation, the practice features experienced optometrists, state-of-the-art equipment, and a strong focus on patient education and safety. It receives consistent praise for family-friendly care, efficient service, and handling complex eye conditions.
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Aroostook Eye Care
Independent Practice
Aroostook Eye Care has built a solid reputation over 16 years for delivering high-quality, accessible eye care to residents of Houlton and surrounding areas. The practice emphasizes patient comfort, safety, and modern amenities, including an on-site optical lab. It is particularly noted for its friendly staff, thorough exams, and strong family satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for routine and specialized optometric needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Houlton, ME, and what should I look for?
You can find optometrists in Houlton by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from your primary care doctor at Houlton Regional Hospital, or checking with local pharmacies. Look for a practitioner who is licensed by the Maine Board of Optometry and has a convenient location, such as on Bangor Street or Market Square. It's also beneficial to choose an optometrist who offers comprehensive eye exams, manages ocular diseases common in our region, and has a good reputation for patient care in the community.
What specific eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Houlton?
Optometrists in Houlton provide essential services for the community's needs, including comprehensive eye exams for all ages, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/treatment of conditions like dry eye (exacerbated by Maine's cold winters), glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease. Many also offer pre- and post-operative care for patients referred to surgical centers in larger cities like Presque Isle or Bangor. Given Houlton's rural setting, some practices may emphasize managing eye health for patients who travel significant distances for specialized care.
Do optometrists in Houlton accept MaineCare or other specific insurance plans common in Aroostook County?
Many optometrists in Houlton do accept MaineCare (Medicaid) and other major insurance plans like Medicare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Maine, and Aetna. However, coverage for routine vision exams versus medical eye exams can vary. It is crucial to contact the optometry office directly before your appointment to verify they are in-network with your specific plan. Be sure to ask if they also accept vision insurance plans like VSP or EyeMed, which are often separate from medical insurance.
What is the average cost of a routine eye exam without insurance in Houlton, and are there affordable options?
In Houlton, the out-of-pocket cost for a comprehensive routine eye exam typically ranges from $80 to $150, depending on the optometrist and the tests performed. This is generally lower than in Maine's larger metropolitan areas. For more affordable care, inquire about cash-pay discounts or payment plans some offices may offer. Additionally, organizations like the Lions Club in Aroostook County sometimes provide assistance or vouchers for eye exams and glasses for qualifying individuals. It's always best to call ahead for precise pricing.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist in Houlton, and what is the typical availability like?
Appointment availability in Houlton can vary by practice and season. For routine exams, booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance is common. During back-to-school season or before the harsh winter months when residents prioritize health checks, schedules may fill up more quickly. For urgent issues like eye infections or sudden vision changes, most Houlton optometrists will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well in advance, especially if you need to coordinate travel from surrounding smaller towns in The County.