The Best Optometrists in Utica, MO
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Utica. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. O'Dell
O'Dell Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. O'Dell, O.D., has been providing exceptional eye care to the Utica and Chillicothe areas for over two decades. His practice is renowned for its personalized approach, advanced diagnostic technology, and high patient satisfaction rates. Services include thorough eye health evaluations, contact lens specialties, and management of ocular diseases, making it a top choice for families and individuals seeking reliable optometric care.
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Visionworks
Visionworks
Visionworks in Chillicothe offers accessible and affordable eye care with a team of licensed optometrists serving the Utica region. With a focus on safety and modern amenities, they provide comprehensive services including detailed eye exams and a wide selection of eyewear. The practice is praised for its efficient service, family-friendly environment, and consistent high ratings from local patients.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
Brookfield Eye Care
Dr. Sarah K. Johnson, O.D., leads Brookfield Eye Care with over 18 years of experience, serving patients from Utica and surrounding communities. The practice is known for its thorough safety protocols, compassionate staff, and expertise in managing complex eye conditions. They offer a range of specialized services, including advanced dry eye therapies and sports vision assessments, backed by strong family satisfaction and positive reviews.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Utica, MO?
In Utica and the surrounding Clinton County area, start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Utica Medical Clinic or from neighbors. You can also search the Missouri Optometric Association's online directory for licensed doctors of optometry. Since Utica is a smaller community, many residents also consider optometrists in nearby larger towns like Chillicothe or Cameron, which are within a reasonable driving distance and offer more clinic options.
What eye care services are typically available at optometry practices serving Utica residents?
Optometrists serving the Utica area typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's rural nature, some practices may offer mobile testing equipment or have strong referral networks to ophthalmologists in St. Joseph or Kansas City for more specialized surgical care. It's common for local practices to also provide a selection of frames and lenses on-site for convenience.
Do optometrists in the Utica area accept my vision or medical insurance?
Acceptance varies by practice. Most optometry offices in the region, including those Utica residents frequent in nearby towns, commonly accept major vision plans like VSP or EyeMed, as well as medical insurance such as Medicare, Medicaid (MO HealthNet), and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Missouri. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan, as rural practices sometimes have more limited participation compared to urban centers.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a rural community like Utica?
For Utica residents, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and office hours that accommodate travel from a rural area. Look for a practice with a good reputation for patient communication and that offers a broad scope of services to minimize the need for referrals for basic care. Check if they have modern diagnostic technology, as this can be important for comprehensive care without traveling far. Also, consider the optician and frame selection on-site if you prefer to get your glasses in one trip.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Utica, MO?
Appointment availability can vary. For optometrists with clinics directly in smaller towns like Utica, wait times might be shorter. For popular practices in nearby hubs like Chillicothe, you may need to book a routine comprehensive exam several weeks in advance, especially for evening or Saturday hours. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well ahead of time. For urgent concerns (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most offices in the area will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments.