The Best Optometrists in Amherst, MA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Amherst. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David A. Jordan
Eye Health Vision Centers
Dr. David Jordan has been serving the Amherst community for over two decades with exceptional comprehensive eye care. His practice is known for thorough examinations using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and personalized attention to each patient. Specializing in family eye care, Dr. Jordan provides everything from routine vision checks to managing complex ocular conditions. Patients consistently praise his detailed explanations, gentle approach with children, and commitment to finding the perfect vision solutions. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers an extensive selection of eyewear.
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Dr. Robert A. Stein
Amherst Family Eye Care
Dr. Robert Stein leads Amherst Family Eye Care with a focus on comprehensive vision health for the entire family. The practice is renowned for its friendly staff, modern facility, and thorough approach to eye health. Dr. Stein specializes in managing ocular diseases while providing exceptional routine care. The practice features advanced diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and offers an extensive optical department with fashionable frames. Patients consistently highlight the practice's welcoming atmosphere, minimal wait times, and Dr. Stein's expertise in solving complex vision problems.
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Dr. Michael J. Kessler
Northampton Eye Care
Located just minutes from Amherst in neighboring Hadley, Dr. Michael Kessler's practice serves the entire Pioneer Valley with exceptional eye care services. The practice is known for its cutting-edge technology, including optical coherence tomography and visual field testing. Dr. Kessler specializes in complex contact lens fittings and myopia management for children. Patients consistently praise the practice's modern approach, thorough examinations, and excellent customer service. The office features a comprehensive optical center with hundreds of frame options and accepts most major insurance plans, making it a popular choice for Amherst residents seeking top-quality eye care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find an optometrist in Amherst that accepts my university student health insurance?
Many optometrists in Amherst are experienced with the major student health plans from UMass Amherst, Amherst College, and Hampshire College. It's best to call the optometry office directly and provide your specific insurance details (e.g., UMass Student Health Insurance Plan - SHIP, Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA). Offices near the campuses, such as those in Amherst Center or on University Drive, often have staff familiar with processing these claims. You can also check your insurance provider's online directory for in-network eye doctors in the 01002 zip code.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Amherst for a child's first eye exam?
Look for an optometrist in Amherst who specializes in pediatric eye care or is known for being great with kids. Several practices in the area offer a family-friendly environment. Check if they have experience with developmental vision issues common in school-aged children. It's also helpful to choose an office with a wide selection of children's frames, as many local opticians in Amherst Center carry durable, stylish options popular with kids. Reading reviews from other Amherst parents can provide insight into a doctor's bedside manner.
Are there optometrists in Amherst that offer same-day appointments for urgent eye issues?
Yes, some optometry practices in Amherst do accommodate same-day appointments for urgent concerns like eye infections, sudden vision changes, or foreign object removal. Your best bet is to call offices as soon as they open. Practices with multiple doctors may have more flexibility. For after-hours emergencies, patients in Amherst are typically directed to the nearest emergency room or an ophthalmology urgent care center in the broader Pioneer Valley, such as in Northampton or Springfield.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam and glasses in Amherst without insurance?
In Amherst, a comprehensive eye exam without insurance typically ranges from $100 to $150, though prices can vary by practice. The cost for glasses depends heavily on frames and lenses. Many local optometrists have optical shops on-site with a wide price range. You can find basic prescription glasses starting around $150-$200 for a complete pair. For more budget-conscious options, some Amherst practices work with affordable online retailers, or you can visit larger optical chains in nearby Hadley for promotional packages.
Which optometrists in Amherst provide specialized services like myopia control or dry eye treatment?
Several optometrists in the Amherst area offer advanced specialty services. For myopia control in children and teens, look for practices that mention treatments like Ortho-K, MiSight contact lenses, or atropine therapy. For dry eye disease, which can be exacerbated by seasonal allergies and indoor heating common in New England, seek out optometrists with dedicated dry eye clinics. These practices often offer in-depth diagnostics (like meibography) and treatments such as LipiFlow or intense pulsed light (IPL). Checking individual practice websites or calling to inquire about these specific services is recommended.