The Best Optometrists in Gildford, MT
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Gildford. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Havre Vision Center
Independent Practice
Havre Vision Center is a highly-rated independent optometry practice known for its personalized patient care and family-friendly environment. With over 18 years of service, they offer comprehensive eye exams, advanced diagnostic testing for conditions like glaucoma, and a wide selection of eyewear. Patients praise their attentive staff, thorough examinations, and commitment to safety, making them a top choice for residents of Gildford and the surrounding Hi-Line region.
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Big Sky Eye Care
Independent Practice
Big Sky Eye Care provides exceptional optometric services with a focus on comprehensive eye health and modern technology. Established over 12 years ago, they specialize in managing conditions like diabetes-related eye issues and dry eye syndrome, alongside routine exams and contact lens fittings. Reviews highlight their knowledgeable staff, clean facilities, and high patient satisfaction, particularly for families seeking reliable eye care in the Gildford area.
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Northern Montana Eye Care
Regional Practice
Northern Montana Eye Care has built a strong reputation over 15 years for delivering thorough, compassionate eye care services to the Hi-Line community, including Gildford. They offer a full range of services, from routine exams to specialized care for cataracts and low vision, with an on-site optical lab for convenient eyewear solutions. Patients consistently commend their experienced optometrists, safety protocols, and ability to handle complex eye health needs, ensuring top-quality care for all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Gildford, MT, or will I need to travel to a nearby town?
Gildford is a very small community, and it is unlikely you will find a full-time optometry practice within the town limits. Residents typically travel to nearby larger towns such as Havre, Great Falls, or Shelby for comprehensive eye care. It's best to search for optometrists in these surrounding areas and check if they offer mobile services or occasional clinics closer to home.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Gildford, MT, area?
Given the rural nature of the area, key factors include travel distance, scope of services, and availability. Look for practices in nearby towns that offer comprehensive services like glaucoma testing, diabetic eye exams, and a good selection of frames. Checking online reviews from other rural patients and confirming that the optometrist has experience with agricultural or outdoor-related eye concerns (like dry eye from dust) can also be helpful.
Do optometrists near Gildford accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. When calling optometry offices in Havre, Great Falls, or Shelby, be sure to ask specifically if they are in-network with your insurance provider (e.g., Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana, VSP). Many rural clinics are accustomed to working with a variety of plans, but it's crucial to verify coverage, co-pays, and any out-of-network costs before scheduling your appointment to avoid surprises.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist serving the Gildford area?
Appointment availability can vary. For routine exams, booking several weeks to a month in advance is common, especially for popular practitioners in the closest hub towns. Some clinics may have longer wait times for specific services or new patient appointments. It's advisable to call early, and if you have an urgent eye issue, clearly state this, as many practices can accommodate emergency visits or provide referrals.
What eye care services are most important to find locally when living in a rural area like Gildford?
For Gildford residents, prioritizing optometrists who offer a broad range of services is key to minimizing travel. Look for practices that provide not only comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses/contacts but also diagnosis and management of eye diseases (like macular degeneration or cataracts), which might otherwise require a specialist referral far away. Some optometrists may also have an on-site optical lab for quicker turnaround on glasses repairs or adjustments.