The Best Optometrists in Ethel, MO
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ethel. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James R. Smith
Macon Eye Care
Macon Eye Care, led by Dr. James R. Smith, is a highly-rated independent practice known for its exceptional patient care and safety standards. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Smith utilizes advanced diagnostic technology to provide thorough eye exams and specializes in pediatric optometry and contact lens fittings. The practice features a family-friendly environment, modern amenities, and consistently high satisfaction ratings from families in the Ethel area, emphasizing personalized care and preventive health.
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Dr. Lisa M. Johnson
Kirksville Vision Center
Kirksville Vision Center, under the guidance of Dr. Lisa M. Johnson, is renowned for its patient-centered approach and strong safety record. With 15 years of expertise, Dr. Johnson offers specialized services like dry eye management and emergency eye care, supported by state-of-the-art equipment. The center prioritizes family satisfaction, with a comfortable setting, knowledgeable staff, and high care quality ratings, making it a trusted option for residents of Ethel and surrounding regions.
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Dr. Michael Brown
Brookfield Eye Associates
Brookfield Eye Associates, operated by Dr. Michael Brown, delivers high-quality optometric care with a focus on advanced technology and sports vision services. With a decade of experience, Dr. Brown maintains excellent safety protocols and patient satisfaction, offering comprehensive exams and low vision support. The practice is praised for its friendly atmosphere, modern amenities, and reliable care, serving families in the Ethel area with consistent, positive reviews.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Ethel, MO?
As Ethel is a small village, there may not be an optometrist's office within the town limits itself. Your best options are to search for practices in nearby larger towns like Kirksville, Macon, or Edina. You can use online directories like your health insurance provider's website, Google Maps, or the Missouri Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool. Asking for recommendations from your primary care doctor at the Adair County Family Medicine clinic or from neighbors can also lead you to trusted local eye care providers in the region.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Ethel, MO area?
Given the rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and travel time from Ethel, their office hours, and the range of services offered. Look for a practice that provides comprehensive eye exams, manages common conditions like dry eye (which can be exacerbated by Missouri's seasonal allergies), and has a good optical selection for glasses. It's also wise to verify they accept your vision or medical insurance, as options in rural Missouri can be more limited. Checking online reviews from patients in similar small communities can provide insight into their bedside manner and reliability.
Do optometrists near Ethel, MO accept my vision insurance?
This depends entirely on your specific insurance plan. Most optometry offices in the surrounding counties (Adair, Knox, Macon) accept major vision plans like VSP, EyeMed, and many Medicare Advantage plans. However, it is crucial to call the office directly before scheduling an appointment. When you call, have your insurance card ready and ask specifically if they are 'in-network' for your plan. Due to the smaller number of providers in rural Missouri, confirming network status is an essential first step to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Ethel community?
Optometrists in the towns surrounding Ethel typically offer comprehensive eye health and vision exams, which are vital for detecting not just refractive errors but also conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the agricultural nature of the area, they are experienced in treating eye injuries and managing dry eye. Most also have an on-site optical dispensary for glasses and can fit contact lenses. For more specialized surgical care (like cataract surgery), they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in larger regional centers like Kirksville or Columbia.
How far in advance do I need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Ethel, MO?
Appointment availability can vary. For routine eye exams, it's common to schedule 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially for popular times like Saturdays. For more urgent concerns (like a sudden eye infection or injury), many offices in the area will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for established patients. New patient appointments may require slightly longer lead times. The best practice is to call the office as soon as you know you need an exam, and if you have a specific frame of time (e.g., after harvest season), try to book several months ahead.