The Best Optometrists in Old Chatham, NY
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Old Chatham. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark S. Cohen
Albany Optometry
Dr. Mark S. Cohen has built a reputation over 22 years for providing exceptional eye care with a focus on personalized patient relationships and advanced diagnostic technology. The practice is highly rated for its thorough exams, family-friendly environment, and commitment to safety, with patients consistently praising Dr. Cohen's attention to detail and compassionate approach. Services include comprehensive eye exams, contact lens evaluations, and pediatric optometry, making it a top choice for families in the Old Chatham area.
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Dr. David A. Kessler
Kessler Eye Care
With nearly 25 years of experience, Dr. David A. Kessler is renowned for his expertise in managing complex eye conditions and providing high-quality, patient-centered care. The practice emphasizes safety, modern amenities, and patient education, earning strong family satisfaction ratings. Services include routine exams, dry eye treatment, and sports vision therapy, supported by a team of qualified staff. Dr. Kessler's long-standing presence in the Capital Region ensures reliable service for Old Chatham residents.
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Dr. Lisa M. Williams
Chatham Family Eye Care
Dr. Lisa M. Williams operates Chatham Family Eye Care, located just minutes from Old Chatham, offering comprehensive eye care with a strong focus on community and family needs. With 18 years of experience, the practice is praised for its friendly staff, modern facilities, and high safety standards. Services include full-service optometry, emergency care, and senior vision support, making it a convenient and trusted option for local families. Patient reviews highlight the practice's attentive care and comfortable environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist serving the Old Chatham, NY area?
In Old Chatham and the surrounding Columbia County region, start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at a local practice like Chatham Family Medicine or from neighbors. You can also search the New York State Optometric Association website, which allows you to filter by location. Checking online reviews for practices in nearby towns like Chatham, East Chatham, or Kinderhook, which serve the Old Chatham community, is also helpful. Many residents find that local community Facebook groups are a valuable resource for personal referrals.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists near Old Chatham?
Optometrists in the Old Chatham area provide comprehensive services including routine eye exams, contact lens fittings (for standard, astigmatism, and multifocal lenses), and prescriptions for glasses. Many also diagnose and manage common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and cataracts. Given the rural nature of the area, some practices may have strong relationships with optical labs for faster eyewear turnaround. For more specialized surgical care, your local optometrist will coordinate referrals to ophthalmologists in Albany or other larger nearby cities.
Do optometrists in Old Chatham accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in and around Old Chatham accept a range of insurance plans common in New York, including Medicare, Medicaid (NY Medicaid), and major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield, MVP Health Care, and Fidelis Care. It is always best to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be sure to clarify if you're scheduling a routine vision exam (often covered by a separate vision plan like VSP or EyeMed) or a medical visit for a specific eye health concern, as this affects billing.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist in a rural area like Old Chatham?
When choosing an optometrist in Old Chatham, consider proximity and office hours, as travel to appointments is a factor in a rural community. Look for a practice with modern diagnostic technology to minimize the need for referrals for basic testing. Check if they have an on-site optical shop for convenience, or if they have reliable partnerships with frame vendors. It's also wise to inquire about their protocol for emergency eye care and after-hours availability, as the nearest urgent eye care clinic may be in Albany, about a 30-45 minute drive away.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Old Chatham?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's advisable to schedule 4 to 6 weeks in advance with optometrists serving the Old Chatham area, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. Due to the smaller number of practices in the immediate vicinity, appointment slots can fill up. However, for more urgent concerns like sudden vision changes or eye injuries, most offices will work to accommodate you sooner, often within a few days. Booking at the end of summer or in early fall is particularly busy due to back-to-school exams.