The Best Optometrists in Drummond Island, MI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Drummond Island. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James R. Harte
Sault Ste. Marie Eye Care
Dr. James R. Harte at Sault Ste. Marie Eye Care is highly regarded for his extensive experience and patient-centered approach. With over 18 years in practice, he provides thorough comprehensive eye exams, advanced contact lens fittings, and specialized pediatric care. The practice emphasizes safety with modern diagnostic equipment and maintains a strong record of family satisfaction, offering amenities like same-day appointments and a wide selection of eyewear. Patients consistently praise his attentive care and the friendly, professional staff, making it a top choice for Drummond Island residents seeking reliable optometry services.
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Dr. David A. Brown
St. Ignace Family Eye Care
Dr. David A. Brown leads St. Ignace Family Eye Care with a focus on comprehensive and emergency eye services, serving the Drummond Island community for over 14 years. The practice is known for its high care quality, with a safety record that includes sterile environments and updated technology. Services cover routine exams, diabetic screenings, and urgent care, supported by a qualified team. Family satisfaction is high due to personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and a comfortable office atmosphere. Reviews highlight Dr. Brown's expertise and the practice's commitment to accessible, quality vision care.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Brien
Upper Peninsula Eye Care Associates
Dr. Michael J. O'Brien at Upper Peninsula Eye Care Associates brings 16 years of expertise, offering advanced services like vision therapy and retinal imaging. The practice is celebrated for its high safety standards, state-of-the-art amenities, and strong family satisfaction ratings. With a team of skilled professionals, they provide thorough eye health assessments and specialized care for conditions like low vision. Patients appreciate the compassionate approach, efficient service, and commitment to ongoing education, making it a trusted option for Drummond Island families seeking top-tier optometry care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly on Drummond Island, MI?
Drummond Island does not have a resident optometrist or eye care clinic on the island itself. Residents and visitors typically travel to the mainland for comprehensive eye exams and optical services. The closest options are in cities like Sault Ste. Marie, MI, or St. Ignace, which are accessible via the Drummond Island Ferry. It's advisable to plan appointments considering the ferry schedule, especially during winter months.
How do I find an optometrist near Drummond Island that accepts my insurance?
Since you'll need to travel off-island, the most efficient method is to use your insurance provider's online directory to search for in-network optometrists in the Eastern Upper Peninsula, specifically in Sault Ste. Marie (Chippewa County) or Mackinac County. You can also call clinics directly in those areas to verify they accept your specific plan. Some island residents also find it helpful to ask for recommendations within the local community, as others will have experience with specific mainland providers.
What eye care services are most important to look for in an optometrist serving Drummond Island residents?
Given the remote nature of Drummond Island, it's beneficial to choose an optometrist on the mainland who offers comprehensive services in one visit. Look for practices that provide full eye health exams, have an on-site optical lab for quicker glasses repairs and adjustments, and can manage common conditions like dry eye (exacerbated by island winds) and UV protection consultations. Some practices may also offer telehealth follow-ups for minor concerns, reducing the need for frequent ferry trips.
What should I consider when scheduling an eye exam appointment as a Drummond Island resident?
The primary consideration is the Drummond Island Ferry schedule and travel time. Book appointments well in advance, preferably for mid-morning or early afternoon to allow for ferry crossings and potential weather delays, which are common in the Straits of Mackinac. Inform the clinic's staff that you are traveling from the island when scheduling; some may be able to accommodate slightly later arrivals if the ferry is delayed. Also, consider combining your eye care visit with other errands or appointments on the mainland.
Can I get an emergency eye issue treated while on Drummond Island?
For true eye emergencies (sudden vision loss, severe injury, chemical burns), you should call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room. For urgent but non-emergency issues (like a sudden red eye, foreign body, or broken glasses), your first call should be to an optometrist's office on the mainland (e.g., in Sault Ste. Marie). They can provide phone triage and, if necessary, arrange for a timely appointment. It's wise to have the contact information for a chosen mainland clinic saved before an urgent situation arises.