The Best Optometrists in East Tawas, MI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in East Tawas. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David L. Tice
Tice Vision Center
Dr. David Tice operates one of the most highly-rated independent optometry practices in the East Tawas area, serving the community for over two decades. Patients consistently praise his thorough examinations, personalized care approach, and extensive experience with complex eye conditions. The practice features modern diagnostic equipment and offers comprehensive vision care services for all ages. Dr. Tice is known for his detailed explanations and commitment to patient education, with many families returning for generations.
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Dr. Michael J. LaFave
Oscoda Family Eye Care
Located just 15 minutes from East Tawas in Oscoda, Dr. Michael LaFave's practice receives exceptional reviews for family-friendly care and comprehensive services. The practice specializes in pediatric optometry and offers same-day emergency appointments. Patients highlight the modern facility, friendly staff, and Dr. LaFave's expertise in managing complex vision needs. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible scheduling for busy families.
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Dr. Jeffrey A. Harrow
West Branch Eye Care
Serving patients throughout the Tawas area, Dr. Jeffrey Harrow operates a well-established practice in West Branch (approximately 30 minutes from East Tawas). The practice is known for its advanced diagnostic technology including retinal imaging and visual field testing. Dr. Harrow specializes in managing ocular diseases and offers comprehensive pre- and post-operative care for cataract and LASIK patients. The practice receives consistent praise for its thorough examinations and professional, caring staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in East Tawas, MI?
In East Tawas, you can find local optometrists by searching online directories like Google Maps or Healthgrades, asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital or other local healthcare providers, and checking with the Tawas Area Chamber of Commerce. Many optometrists in the area have practices along US-23 or in the downtown Tawas City area, serving both East Tawas and the surrounding Iosco County communities.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the East Tawas area?
When choosing an optometrist in East Tawas, consider their experience with both routine eye exams and managing conditions common in the area, such as dry eye exacerbated by seasonal lake winds. Look for practices that offer comprehensive services, including treatment for eye infections, glaucoma monitoring, and diabetic eye exams. It's also beneficial to choose an optometrist who has established referral relationships with ophthalmologists in nearby cities like West Branch or Saginaw for specialized care if needed. Checking patient reviews specific to their Tawas Bay area practice can provide valuable insight.
Do optometrists in East Tawas accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in East Tawas accept a range of vision and medical insurance plans. Common insurers in the region include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Medicare, Medicaid (Michigan Medicaid), and plans through Priority Health. However, coverage can vary by practice. It's highly recommended to contact the optometrist's office directly before your appointment to verify they are in-network with your specific plan and to understand what services (like frames or contact lenses) are covered, as some smaller local practices may have more limited networks than larger chains.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in East Tawas?
Optometrists in East Tawas typically offer comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of eye diseases (like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration), and treatment of eye injuries and infections. Given the community's demographic, many also provide specialized services for age-related vision changes and dry eye syndrome. Some practices may offer a limited selection of frames on-site, while others may focus solely on medical eye care and refer patients to local optical shops in Tawas City for eyewear.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with an East Tawas optometrist, and what should I bring?
For a routine eye exam with an optometrist in East Tawas, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer before school starts or fall for use-it-or-lose-it insurance benefits. For urgent concerns, many practices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. For your visit, bring your current glasses or contact lens information, a list of any medications, your vision and medical insurance cards, and a form of ID. If you have a complex medical history, consider bringing relevant records or your primary care doctor's contact information.