The Best Optometrists in Durham, NY
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Durham. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael Biernacki
Biernacki Eye Care
Dr. Michael Biernacki leads Biernacki Eye Care with over two decades of experience, providing high-quality, family-focused optometry services in the Greene County area. The practice is renowned for its thorough eye exams, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized care plans. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, clean and safe environment, and Dr. Biernacki's expertise in managing conditions like glaucoma and dry eye. With a strong emphasis on patient education and preventive care, this practice has built a loyal patient base and excellent safety record, making it a top choice for families in and around Durham.
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Dr. Jonathan P. Smith
Hudson Vision Center
Hudson Vision Center, under Dr. Jonathan P. Smith, offers comprehensive optometric care with a focus on patient satisfaction and safety. The practice features modern amenities, including digital retinal imaging and a wide selection of eyewear, and is known for its attentive, skilled staff. Dr. Smith's 15 years of experience ensure reliable diagnoses and treatments, particularly in vision therapy and emergency care. Reviews highlight the center's family-friendly atmosphere, minimal wait times, and commitment to using high-quality materials. Serving the Hudson Valley region, including Durham, this practice maintains a strong reputation for excellence and community trust.
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Dr. David L. Smith
Kingston Eye Care
Kingston Eye Care, led by Dr. David L. Smith, provides expert optometry services with a emphasis on advanced care and patient comfort. With 18 years of experience, Dr. Smith specializes in conditions like cataracts and low vision, using
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist serving the Durham, NY area?
For Durham residents, a great starting point is to ask for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Durham Family Medicine or from neighbors in local communities like Oak Hill or Cornwallville. You can also use the online provider search tools of major insurance companies or search for 'optometrist near me' with filters for Durham, 12422, or Greene County. Many reputable practices in nearby towns such as Cairo, Greenville, or even Catskill serve the Durham area and are accustomed to patients traveling from more rural locations.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists in the Durham region?
Optometrists in and around Durham, NY, provide comprehensive services essential for rural communities. This includes full eye exams for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of conditions like dry eye (common in varying Upstate NY seasons), glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's aging population, many practices also specialize in low vision aids and management of macular degeneration. For specialized surgical care, they will coordinate referrals to ophthalmologists in larger nearby hubs like Albany or Kingston.
Do optometrists near Durham, NY, accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in the Durham area accept a wide range of insurance plans common to New York State and the Capital Region. This typically includes Medicare, Medicaid (Fidelis Care in NY), and major commercial plans like Blue Shield of Northeastern New York, MVP Health Care, and CDPHP. It is highly recommended to call the specific practice in advance—whether in Durham itself or a neighboring town—to verify they are in-network with your specific plan, as provider networks can vary even within this rural region.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist in a rural area like Durham?
When choosing an optometrist in Durham, key considerations include travel distance and office hours that fit your schedule, as options are limited locally. Look for a practice with modern diagnostic technology (like digital retinal imaging) to minimize the need for distant referrals for basic care. Check if they have an on-site optical lab for quicker glasses repairs and adjustments, which is valuable when the next closest option may be 30 minutes away. Also, consider their hospital or specialist network affiliations for seamless care if you need treatment in Albany or Hudson.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Durham, NY?
For routine eye exams in the Durham area, booking 4 to 6 weeks in advance is common, especially for popular times like after school or on Saturdays. Some smaller practices may have shorter wait times. For urgent concerns (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most offices in Greene County will accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for established patients, and can often see new patients urgently. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well before your current prescription expires to ensure continuity of care.