The Best Optometrists in Friendsville, MD
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Friendsville. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael A. Bittinger, OD
Garrett Eye Care
Garrett Eye Care, led by Dr. Michael Bittinger, is a highly-rated independent practice known for its personalized care and advanced diagnostic technology. Serving Friendsville and surrounding areas for over two decades, they emphasize family-friendly services, thorough safety protocols, and a wide range of optical amenities. Patients consistently praise their attentive staff, comfortable environment, and expertise in managing complex eye conditions, making them a top choice for comprehensive vision care in Garrett County.
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Dr. James R. Durst, OD
Deep Creek Eye Care
Deep Creek Eye Care provides exceptional optometry services to the Friendsville community with a focus on patient satisfaction and safety. Dr. James Durst and his team offer state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses and a variety of frame selections. With nearly two decades of experience, they are renowned for their compassionate approach, especially in pediatric and senior eye care, and have built a strong reputation for reliability and high-quality outcomes in the Deep Creek Lake region.
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Dr. Sarah Johnson, OD
MyEyeDr.
MyEyeDr. in Cumberland is a trusted regional chain that serves Friendsville residents with comprehensive eye care solutions. Dr. Sarah Johnson leads a team dedicated to high safety standards, modern amenities, and family-centered care. With extensive review feedback highlighting their efficient service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable options, this practice combines national resources with local expertise to deliver consistent, quality vision care for all ages, including specialized services for diabetic eye health and advanced contact lens fittings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Friendsville, MD?
In Friendsville, a smaller town, you may find a local independent practice or need to look in nearby areas like Oakland or Grantsville. The best ways to find one are to search online directories like the American Optometric Association's 'Doctor Locator,' check with the Garrett County Health Department for referrals, or ask for recommendations from your primary care physician at a local clinic or from neighbors at community spots like the Friendsville Pharmacy. Many residents also find providers in the larger neighboring towns within a 20-30 minute drive.
What specific eye care services should I look for in a Friendsville-area optometrist?
Given Friendsville's rural setting and proximity to outdoor activities like those on the Youghiogheny River and in nearby state parks, look for optometrists who offer comprehensive services. These should include thorough eye exams for all ages, diagnosis and management of conditions like dry eye (common in varying mountain weather), sports vision assessments, and urgent care for minor eye injuries. Also, consider if they provide a good selection of durable eyewear, including sports glasses and sunglasses with UV protection, which are essential for the local lifestyle.
Do optometrists in the Friendsville area accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies. Many optometry practices in and serving the Friendsville area commonly accept major medical insurance (like Medicare, Medicaid, and plans from regional providers such as CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield) for medical eye care. For vision-specific plans (like VSP or EyeMed), it's best to call the specific office in Oakland, Grantsville, or Deep Creek Lake that you're considering to verify participation. Given the smaller number of providers, confirming insurance details before scheduling is highly recommended to avoid unexpected costs.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam and glasses near Friendsville without insurance?
In the Friendsville and greater Garrett County area, a comprehensive eye exam without insurance typically ranges from $100 to $150. The cost for glasses can vary widely based on frames and lenses. Basic single-vision glasses might start around $150-$200, while progressive lenses or specialized coatings (like anti-glare for driving on rural roads) can increase the price to $300-$500 or more. Some local or regional practices may offer package deals or discounts for self-pay patients, so it's worth asking about any available pricing options when you call.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist serving Friendsville?
Because Friendsville is served by a limited number of optometry practices, appointment lead times can vary. For a routine eye exam, it's advisable to book several weeks to a month in advance, especially before seasons like summer or back-to-school when demand may increase. For more urgent concerns, many practices in the region will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for issues like eye infections or sudden vision changes. The best strategy is to establish care with a local optometrist so you have a point of contact for both routine and urgent needs.