The Best Optometrists in Tioga Center, NY
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Tioga Center. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Paul D. Gough
Gough Vision Care
Dr. Paul Gough operates one of the highest-rated independent optometry practices in the Southern Tier region, serving Tioga County for over two decades. His practice is known for thorough comprehensive eye examinations using advanced diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. Patients consistently praise his detailed approach to eye care, excellent bedside manner, and ability to explain complex eye health issues clearly. The practice offers extensive frame selections and specializes in hard-to-fit contact lens cases, making it a top choice for families and individuals seeking personalized eye care in the Tioga Center area.
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Dr. Steven A. Zlotnick
Visions Federal Credit Union - Eye Care Center
Dr. Steven Zlotnick leads the comprehensive eye care center at Visions Federal Credit Union, serving the Greater Binghamton area including Tioga Center residents. With two decades of experience, he specializes in family eye care with particular expertise in pediatric optometry and sports vision. The practice features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment including optical coherence tomography and automated visual field testing. Patients highlight the modern facility, friendly staff, and Dr. Zlotnick's ability to make children comfortable during examinations. The center accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible scheduling for busy families.
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Dr. John J. Nicolais
America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses
Dr. John Nicolais practices at America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses in Vestal, providing accessible and affordable eye care to Tioga Center and surrounding communities. With 15 years of clinical experience, he focuses on comprehensive vision care including routine examinations, contact lens fittings, and management of common eye conditions. The practice is particularly noted for its value-oriented approach while maintaining high clinical standards. Patients appreciate the convenient hours, extensive frame selection, and Dr. Nicolais's practical approach to vision correction. The location serves as a reliable option for routine eye care needs with the backing of a national chain's resources and pricing advantages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Tioga Center, NY?
Start by checking with your primary care physician at the Robert Packer Hospital system or Guthrie Clinic for local referrals. You can also search the New York State Optometric Association directory online, which filters by location. Many residents in Tioga Center also find trusted optometrists in nearby towns like Owego, Waverly, or Endicott, which offer more options while remaining convenient. Reading verified patient reviews on platforms like Google or Healthgrades for practices in the Southern Tier region is also highly recommended.
What specific eye care services should I expect from an optometrist serving the Tioga Center area?
Optometrists in the Tioga County region typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common conditions like dry eye (which can be exacerbated by seasonal changes in the Southern Tier). Given the area's older demographic, many practices also specialize in diagnosing and managing age-related eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. It's common for local optometrists to have strong referral networks with ophthalmologists in Binghamton or Sayre, PA, for surgical needs.
Do optometrists near Tioga Center, NY, accept my vision insurance?
Most optometry practices in the Tioga County area accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance (e.g., Medicare, MVP Health Care, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield) for medical eye exams. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment, as insurance participation can vary even between nearby towns. Some smaller independent practices in the region might also offer competitive self-pay pricing or discount plans for uninsured patients.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam without insurance in Tioga Center?
In the Tioga Center region, the out-of-pocket cost for a comprehensive eye exam typically ranges from $80 to $150, depending on the complexity of the exam and the specific practice. This is generally consistent with rates in rural Southern Tier New York. Some independent optometrists in nearby Owego or Newark Valley may offer slightly lower rates. Always inquire about the total exam fee when booking, and ask if it includes tests for eye health (like retinal imaging), as these can sometimes be add-ons.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist in Tioga County?
For routine eye exams, booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance is common for optometrists in the Tioga Center area, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. Due to the limited number of practices in the immediate vicinity, new patient appointments may require longer lead times. For urgent issues (like sudden vision changes or eye injuries), most local offices will work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's advisable to schedule your annual exam well in advance, particularly before the start of the school year or the holiday season.