The Best Optometrists in Collins, MS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Collins. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. William S. Shoemake
Shoemake Eye Care
Dr. Shoemake is a highly respected local optometrist serving Collins and surrounding communities for over a decade. His practice is known for personalized care, advanced diagnostic technology, and comprehensive eye health services. Patients consistently praise his thorough examinations, clear communication, and family-friendly approach. The practice offers a wide selection of frames and accepts most insurance plans.
Services:
Dr. John D. Fortenberry
Fortenberry Eye Clinic
Located just 15 minutes from Collins in Purvis, Dr. Fortenberry's practice serves the entire Lamar County area. The clinic is particularly noted for excellent pediatric care and emergency eye services. With modern equipment and a compassionate staff, they provide comprehensive vision care for all ages. Multiple reviews highlight their efficient service and comfortable patient experience.
Services:
Dr. Michael A. Niolet
Hattiesburg Eye Clinic
While located in Hattiesburg approximately 20 minutes from Collins, this highly-regarded practice serves patients throughout South Mississippi. Dr. Niolet and his team provide advanced medical eye care with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. The practice is particularly recognized for managing complex eye conditions and offering extensive frame selections. Patients consistently report exceptional care quality and professional staff interactions.
Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Collins, MS?
In Collins, you can start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Covington County Hospital or from local pharmacists. Checking online reviews for clinics like Collins Family Eye Care or Southern Eye Associates can also be helpful. The Mississippi Board of Optometry's website provides a license verification tool to ensure any optometrist you consider is properly licensed in the state.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Collins?
Optometrists in Collins, such as those at Collins Vision Center, typically offer comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's demographics, many also provide pediatric eye exams and fitting for specialty lenses. Some clinics may offer a limited selection of frames on-site, while others focus solely on the exam and provide a prescription to be filled elsewhere.
Do optometrists in Collins accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Collins, like those throughout Mississippi, commonly accept major vision plans such as VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance like Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment, as acceptance can vary. Be sure to have your insurance card ready when you call to verify coverage for your eye exam and any potential materials.
What should I look for when choosing between the optometrists in Collins?
When choosing an optometrist in Collins, consider their experience, especially with any specific needs you have (e.g., children's vision, glaucoma management). Check their office hours and location convenience—some may have more flexible schedules than others. It's also wise to inquire about the technology they use; modern diagnostic equipment can lead to more accurate assessments. Finally, consider the overall patient experience, including staff friendliness and the clarity of communication about costs and treatment plans.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam in Collins, MS?
For a routine eye exam in Collins, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. However, for more urgent concerns, most practices will work to accommodate you sooner. New patient appointments may require more lead time than follow-ups. The best approach is to call the optometry office directly, as wait times can fluctuate seasonally. Some clinics may also have cancellation lists you can join for an earlier appointment.