The Best Optometrists in South Boardman, MI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in South Boardman. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Family Eye Care Center of Kalkaska
Family Eye Care Center
Family Eye Care Center of Kalkaska is the closest highly-rated optometry practice to South Boardman, located just 8 miles away in neighboring Kalkaska. With over two decades of service to the local community, Dr. Jeffrey D. Fylling and his team provide comprehensive eye care for the entire family. The practice is known for its thorough examinations, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized approach to vision care. They offer extensive contact lens services including specialty fittings and maintain a wide selection of eyewear. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, professional service, and excellent patient education.
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Great Lakes Eye Care
Great Lakes Eye Care
Located approximately 30 minutes from South Boardman in Traverse City, Great Lakes Eye Care has served northern Michigan communities for over 20 years. The practice is led by Dr. Thomas R. Fite and offers state-of-the-art eye care services using the latest diagnostic technology. They specialize in managing ocular diseases including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. The practice is particularly noted for their emergency eye care services and comprehensive dry eye treatment programs. Patients appreciate the modern facility, extensive optical selection, and the practice's commitment to thorough, educational examinations.
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Northern Optical
Northern Optical
Serving the South Boardman area from Grayling (approximately 25 miles away), Northern Optical has built a strong reputation for quality eye care over nearly two decades. The practice offers comprehensive vision services including specialized sports vision assessments and vision therapy programs. They maintain an extensive optical dispensary with a wide variety of frames and lens options. The optometrists are known for their patient-centered approach and take time to explain conditions and treatment options thoroughly. The practice receives consistent praise for their knowledgeable staff, comfortable atmosphere, and ability to handle complex vision needs for patients of all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist serving the South Boardman, MI area?
In South Boardman, a rural community, finding a local optometrist often involves looking at nearby towns. You can start by searching online directories for 'optometrist near South Boardman, MI' or checking with the Kalkaska County Health Department for referrals. Many residents also find providers in the larger nearby hubs like Kalkaska (about 15 minutes away) or Traverse City (about 45 minutes away). Asking for recommendations at local pharmacies or from your primary care provider in the area is also a common and effective method.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the South Boardman region?
Given the rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and availability for South Boardman residents. Look for practices that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage common conditions like dry eye (aggravated by Michigan's seasons), and have a good selection of frames. It's also wise to check if they have strong relationships with ophthalmologists in Traverse City for specialized referrals. Reading local reviews or asking neighbors in Kalkaska County about their experiences with bedside manner and follow-up care is highly recommended.
Do optometrists near South Boardman accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies. Most optometry practices in the Kalkaska and Grand Traverse region accept major medical insurance (e.g., Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Priority Health) for medical eye exams and major vision plans like VSP or EyeMed. However, due to the smaller number of providers, it's crucial to call ahead. When scheduling an appointment at an office in Kalkaska or Traverse City, explicitly confirm they are in-network with your specific plan and ask about coverage for both the exam and potential eyewear.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists in the South Boardman area?
Optometrists serving the South Boardman community typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the area's older demographic and outdoor lifestyle, look for services like dry eye management, sports vision, and fitting of specialized lenses for activities like hunting or fishing. Many practices also have an on-site optical shop for convenience, saving you a trip to a larger city for frames and lenses.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist near South Boardman, MI?
Appointment availability can vary significantly. For routine eye exams with popular local optometrists in Kalkaska, you may need to book several weeks to a couple of months in advance, especially for evening or Saturday hours. For more urgent concerns (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most practices will work to accommodate you sooner. It's advisable to plan ahead for annual exams, particularly before the end of the year if you have insurance benefits to use. Calling practices directly is the best way to gauge current wait times.