The Best Optometrists in California, MO
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in California. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James E. Brown
Brown Vision Center
Dr. James Brown has been serving the California community for over two decades with comprehensive vision care services. His practice is known for thorough eye examinations, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized patient care. Patients consistently praise his attention to detail, friendly staff, and ability to explain complex eye health issues in understandable terms. The practice offers a wide selection of frames and accepts most insurance plans.
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Dr. John R. Dampf
Dampf Family Eye Care
Located in nearby Tipton, Dr. Dampf's practice serves patients throughout Moniteau County including California. Specializing in family eye care with particular expertise in pediatric vision, the practice is praised for making children feel comfortable during exams. They offer same-day appointments for emergencies and maintain modern diagnostic equipment. Multiple reviews highlight the practice's warm, family-friendly atmosphere and Dr. Dampf's thorough approach to eye health.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Keefe
Jefferson City Vision Center
Serving the central Missouri region including California residents, Dr. O'Keefe's practice combines advanced technology with personalized care. The clinic features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment for detecting early signs of eye disease and offers extensive frame selections. Patients appreciate the efficient service, knowledgeable staff, and Dr. O'Keefe's expertise in managing complex eye conditions. The practice has built a strong reputation for both routine vision care and specialized treatments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in California, MO?
Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or your primary care physician in the California area. You can also check online directories like the Missouri Optometric Association or use search filters on health insurance provider websites to find in-network doctors. Reading verified patient reviews for local practices on platforms like Google can provide insight into patient experiences. Many established optometrists in California, such as those on Oak Street or near the High School, have long-standing community reputations.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in California, MO?
Optometrists in California provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. They also manage conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Most practices offer contact lens fittings, including for astigmatism and presbyopia. Given the rural setting, some optometrists may have strong relationships with local ophthalmologists for surgical referrals. Many also provide urgent care for eye injuries or infections and carry a selection of frames and lenses for immediate purchase.
Do optometrists in California, MO accept my vision insurance?
Most optometry practices in California accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers) for medically necessary visits. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network for your plan. Some smaller, independent practices might also offer competitive self-pay rates or payment plans for those without insurance, which is a common consideration in smaller Missouri communities.
What should I look for when choosing between the optometrists in California?
Consider the optometrist's experience, especially with any specific needs you have (e.g., pediatric eye care, managing glaucoma). Check office hours and location convenience—practices on or near Business 50 or Oak Street offer easy access. Evaluate the technology used; modern practices may offer digital retinal imaging for better disease detection. Also, assess the optical selection if you need glasses, and pay attention to the staff's friendliness and the ease of scheduling appointments, as smaller-town practices often pride themselves on personalized service.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam in California, MO?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is common at most California optometry offices. However, availability can vary by practice and time of year (back-to-school and end-of-year insurance periods are often busier). For urgent concerns, many local optometrists will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's best to call the office directly, as some may offer online scheduling. If you need a specific doctor or a complex fitting like for specialty contact lenses, you may need to plan further ahead.