The Best Optometrists in New Sharon, ME
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in New Sharon. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David R. Gagnon
Farmington Eye Care
Dr. David R. Gagnon at Farmington Eye Care is highly regarded for his extensive experience and patient-centered approach. With over two decades in practice, he specializes in comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and managing conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. The practice is known for its friendly staff, modern technology, and high family satisfaction, with numerous reviews praising the thorough care and comfortable environment. Located just 10 miles from New Sharon, it serves the broader Franklin County area with a focus on safety and quality.
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Dr. John A. Keefe
Waterville Eye Care
Dr. John A. Keefe leads Waterville Eye Care with a reputation for excellent diagnostic skills and compassionate service. The practice offers a range of services including routine exams, diabetic eye care, and dry eye treatments, utilizing advanced equipment for accurate results. Patients highlight the staff's professionalism and the practice's clean, welcoming atmosphere. With nearly 20 years of experience, Dr. Keefe focuses on family-friendly care and has built a strong safety record. Waterville is approximately 20 miles from New Sharon, making it accessible for residents.
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Dr. James B. Long
Augusta Eye Care
Dr. James B. Long at Augusta Eye Care is celebrated for his expertise in vision therapy and emergency eye care, serving the central Maine region including New Sharon (about 30 miles away). The practice emphasizes personalized care with services like LASIK consultations and senior eye health programs. Reviews consistently note the high level of patient satisfaction, modern amenities, and thorough safety protocols. Founded in 2008, the practice has grown to become a trusted option for families, with a team dedicated to ongoing education and community outreach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near New Sharon, ME?
Since New Sharon is a smaller town, you may need to look in nearby communities for a full-service optometry practice. Start by checking with your primary care provider at the New Sharon Health Center for a referral. Many residents also find optometrists in larger neighboring towns like Farmington (approx. 10 miles away), Skowhegan, or Waterville. You can search online directories like the Maine Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for Franklin County and the surrounding area.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the New Sharon area?
Given the rural nature of the area, key factors include proximity and travel time, especially during Maine winters. Look for an optometrist whose office hours align with your schedule. Check if they offer comprehensive eye exams, manage conditions like dry eye (common in New England's climate), and have an on-site optical lab for quicker glasses repairs. Reading reviews from other patients in Franklin County can provide insight into their bedside manner and the practicality of scheduling follow-up visits.
Do optometrists near New Sharon accept MaineCare or specific vision insurance plans?
Insurance acceptance varies. It's crucial to call ahead to practices in Farmington, Skowhegan, or Waterville to verify they accept your specific plan, whether it's MaineCare, Medicare, or a private vision insurer like VSP or EyeMed. Some rural practices may have more limited participation with certain HMOs. Be sure to also ask about their policy for patients paying out-of-pocket, as some may offer discounts or payment plans for uninsured residents.
What specialized eye care services might I need to travel for from New Sharon?
While routine exams, glasses, and contact lens fittings are available at local optometrists, more specialized services like advanced dry eye clinics, myopia control for children, or treatment for specific retinal diseases may require a referral to an ophthalmologist or a specialty clinic in a larger city like Lewiston, Augusta, or Portland. Your local New Sharon area optometrist can often coordinate this care and handle follow-up management.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye exam with an optometrist serving New Sharon?
For popular practices in the region, especially those serving multiple small towns, it's advisable to schedule routine exams several weeks to a couple of months in advance. Demand can be higher at the end of the year when patients use remaining insurance benefits or before the school year starts. For urgent issues like sudden vision changes or eye injuries, most offices in the area will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. Calling early in the day is best for urgent slots.