The Best Optometrists in Avenue, MD
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Avenue. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Southern Maryland Eye Care Associates
Southern Maryland Eye Care Associates
Southern Maryland Eye Care Associates is a highly-rated practice known for its exceptional care quality and patient-centered approach. With over two decades of service, they feature experienced optometrists and staff using state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses and treatments. They emphasize safety, thorough eye health evaluations, and family-friendly services, including pediatric care and management of ocular conditions. Patients consistently praise their attentive service, modern amenities, and high satisfaction rates, making them a top choice in the region serving Avenue and surrounding areas.
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Chesapeake Eye Care
Chesapeake Eye Care
Chesapeake Eye Care has built a strong reputation for personalized and comprehensive eye care services over nearly two decades. Their team of skilled optometrists focuses on patient education, safety, and using advanced diagnostic tools to ensure optimal vision health. Services include routine exams, contact lens fittings, and urgent care, with high marks for staff professionalism and family satisfaction. Located in Leonardtown, they conveniently serve Avenue residents with a commitment to quality and comfort, supported by positive reviews highlighting their reliable and friendly environment.
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America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses
National Vision, Inc.
America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses offers affordable, high-quality eye care through a reputable national chain with a strong local presence in Southern Maryland. Established for over 15 years, this location provides comprehensive services including thorough eye exams, a wide selection of frames, and contact lens options. They are known for their efficient service, safety protocols, and family-friendly approach, with optometrists dedicated to patient education and satisfaction. Serving Avenue and nearby communities, they receive consistent praise for their value, convenience, and positive patient experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Avenue, MD?
Start by checking with your primary care physician at the MedStar Health or University of Maryland Charles Regional facilities for local referrals. You can also use online directories like the Maryland Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for Southern Maryland. Many residents in Avenue also find trusted providers by asking for recommendations in community groups like the 'Avenue, MD Community' Facebook page or at local pharmacies. Given Avenue's rural location, you may also consider optometrists in nearby larger towns like La Plata or Leonardtown for more options.
What specific eye care services are commonly offered by optometrists serving the Avenue area?
Optometrists in the Avenue and greater St. Mary's/Charles County region typically offer comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings (including for astigmatism and presbyopia), management of dry eye (common in Maryland's seasonal climates), and treatment of conditions like glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's demographics, many also specialize in pediatric eye care and myopia control. For more complex surgical needs, they coordinate with ophthalmologists at centers like the MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center.
Do optometrists in Avenue, MD accept Maryland Medicaid and other major insurance plans?
Yes, many optometry practices in the area accept Maryland Medicaid (including the Maryland Physicians Care and Jai Medical Systems managed care organizations prevalent in St. Mary's County), as well as Medicare, and private plans from providers like CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare, and Cigna. It's always crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan, as coverage can vary even within the same town. Some smaller private practices in rural areas like Avenue may operate on a fee-for-service basis.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a rural community like Avenue?
In a rural community, consider the optometrist's scope of practice and availability. Look for a practice with modern diagnostic technology (like digital retinal imaging) on-site to minimize referrals to distant specialists. Check their hours and emergency protocols, as access to immediate eye care can be limited. Reviews from other Southern Maryland residents can highlight bedside manner and wait times. Also, consider the optical shop's inventory if you need glasses; a local practice with a good selection can save you a trip to a larger commercial retailer in Waldorf or California, MD.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist in Avenue, MD?
For routine eye exams, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common for established practices in the Avenue area. New patient appointments may require longer lead times, sometimes 4-6 weeks, especially for popular independent optometrists. Many practices offer more availability during weekdays. For urgent issues (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most offices in the region will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well before the end of the year if you have FSA/HSA funds to use, as appointments can fill up.