The Best Optometrists in Colstrip, MT
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Colstrip. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Troy K. Stenberg
Forsyth Family Eye Care
Dr. Stenberg operates one of the highest-rated optometry practices in southeastern Montana, serving patients from Colstrip and surrounding communities. His practice is known for thorough comprehensive eye exams, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized care plans. Patients consistently praise his attention to detail, friendly staff, and ability to handle complex vision needs. The practice offers extensive contact lens options including specialty fits and manages various ocular conditions. With over a decade serving the region, they've built strong trust with families and working professionals.
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Dr. Mark D. Reiter
Miles City Vision Clinic
Miles City Vision Clinic serves as a regional eye care center for southeastern Montana communities including Colstrip. Dr. Reiter and his team provide comprehensive optometric services with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. The practice is particularly noted for their emergency eye care services and management of complex ocular conditions. Patients appreciate the modern facility, extensive eyewear selection, and the clinic's ability to handle both routine and specialized vision needs. Their sports vision program is popular among local athletes and workers requiring specialized visual performance.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Connell
Big Sky Eyecare
While located in Billings, Big Sky Eyecare serves as a regional referral center for complex vision cases from throughout southeastern Montana, including regular patients from Colstrip. Dr. O'Connell leads a practice known for exceptional clinical expertise and cutting-edge technology. The practice specializes in difficult contact lens fittings, dry eye management, and comprehensive pediatric and adult optometry. Patients travel from Colstrip for their advanced diagnostic capabilities and expertise in managing challenging ocular conditions. The practice maintains strong relationships with regional ophthalmologists for coordinated care when needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Colstrip, MT, or will I need to travel to a nearby city?
Colstrip is a smaller community, and there are typically no full-time optometry practices located directly within the town. Residents generally travel to nearby cities like Billings, Miles City, or Forsyth for comprehensive eye care. It's advisable to check the most current local business listings or ask for referrals at the Colstrip Medical Center or local pharmacies for any visiting specialists or the closest established practices.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist to travel to from Colstrip?
Given the need to travel, prioritize optometrists in larger hubs like Billings who offer extended hours or weekend appointments to minimize time off work. Look for practices with strong reviews that mention a family-friendly approach, handle a wide range of services (from pediatric eye exams to managing dry eye and glaucoma), and can often provide glasses on-site. Confirming they accept your vision or medical insurance before making the drive is also crucial.
How can I manage routine eye care and emergencies living in a rural area like Colstrip?
For routine exams, schedule appointments in advance in cities like Miles City or Billings. For true eye emergencies (sudden vision loss, severe injury, painful red eye), your first point of contact should be the Colstrip Medical Center or the nearest emergency room. They can provide initial stabilization and coordinate urgent referral to an ophthalmologist. Keep the contact information for a recommended optometry or ophthalmology practice handy for urgent but non-emergency advice.
Do optometrists in the region understand the specific eye care needs common in Colstrip's environment?
Yes, reputable optometrists in southeastern Montana are very familiar with regional environmental factors. They commonly address issues like severe dry eye exacerbated by wind and low humidity, UV protection needs for high plains sunlight, and allergy management. When calling to book an appointment, you can mention you're from the Colstrip area, and they will be prepared to discuss these specific concerns during your exam.
What is the best way to schedule an eye exam and order glasses or contacts when I have to travel from Colstrip?
Many practices in Billings and Miles City offer online scheduling or allow you to call and explain you are traveling from Colstrip. To make the most of your trip, choose a practice that is a "one-stop shop" offering comprehensive exams, a wide optical selection, and contact lens fittings on-site. Some may even offer remote services like contact lens re-ordering online or by phone once you are an established patient, saving you future trips for supplies.