The Best Optometrists in Ashland, NH
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ashland. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Joseph D. Lannan
Plymouth Eye Care
Dr. Joseph Lannan has been serving the Lakes Region and surrounding communities for over 25 years, providing exceptional comprehensive eye care with a focus on personalized patient attention. His practice is known for thorough examinations, advanced diagnostic technology, and family-friendly approach. Patients consistently praise Dr. Lannan's expertise, patience with children, and ability to explain complex eye health issues clearly. The practice offers extensive eyewear selections and accepts most insurance plans, making quality eye care accessible to Ashland residents and surrounding communities.
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Dr. James R. Lewis
Meredith Eye Center
Dr. James Lewis leads this well-established practice that has been serving the central New Hampshire region for nearly two decades. Meredith Eye Center is recognized for its comprehensive approach to eye health, including management of chronic conditions like diabetes-related eye issues and dry eye syndrome. The practice features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and a modern optical dispensary with extensive frame selections. Patients consistently highlight the friendly staff, thorough examinations, and Dr. Lewis's expertise in detecting and managing complex eye conditions.
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Dr. Christopher J. LoCascio
Laconia Eye Center
Dr. Christopher LoCascio provides comprehensive eye care services to patients throughout the Lakes Region, including Ashland residents. His practice is particularly noted for expertise in both pediatric and geriatric eye care, with special attention to developmental vision issues in children and age-related conditions in older adults. The practice offers vision therapy services and maintains a well-stocked optical department with fashionable eyewear options. Patients consistently praise the practice for its thorough approach, modern facility, and Dr. LoCascio's ability to make patients of all ages feel comfortable during examinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Ashland, NH?
In Ashland and the surrounding Lakes Region, start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Speare Memorial Hospital or local pharmacists. You can also check online directories like the New Hampshire Optometric Association website, which filters by location. Many residents also rely on word-of-mouth referrals from neighbors in towns like Plymouth, Holderness, and Meredith. Practices in these nearby towns often serve the Ashland community due to the limited number of clinics directly in town.
What specific eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving Ashland, NH?
Optometrists in the Ashland area provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's older demographic and outdoor lifestyle, many practices also specialize in cataract co-management, low vision services, and fitting specialty eyewear for activities like hiking, skiing, and boating on Squam Lake. It's common for local optometrists to have strong referral relationships with ophthalmologists in larger centers like Concord or Laconia for surgical needs.
Do optometrists in Ashland, NH accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in the Ashland region accept major medical insurance (like Medicare and Anthem) and vision plans (such as VSP or EyeMed). However, due to the rural nature of the area, it is crucial to call ahead and verify. Some smaller independent practices may be out-of-network for certain plans, so confirm coverage for both the exam and materials. Many offices are familiar with the insurance needs of local residents, including state employees and retirees, which are common in the area.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a smaller community like Ashland?
In a smaller community like Ashland, consider the optometrist's accessibility and range of services. Look for a practice with convenient hours that can accommodate urgent needs, as the nearest emergency eye care might be far. Check if they have an on-site optical lab for quicker repairs and adjustments. It's also beneficial to choose an optometrist experienced with the common local needs, such as managing ocular allergies from high pollen counts or providing durable eyewear for the active, four-season lifestyle. Reading local reviews or community forum feedback on platforms like Front Porch Forum can offer valuable insights.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist in the Ashland area?
For a routine eye exam in the Ashland area, booking 2 to 6 weeks in advance is common, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. Demand can be higher at the end of the year when patients use remaining insurance benefits. Some practices may have longer wait times due to serving a broad region. However, many offices keep slots open for urgent issues. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well in advance, particularly if you have a specific provider preference. Some practices in nearby Plymouth or Meredith may offer more immediate availability.