The Best Optometrists in Beaufort, NC
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Beaufort. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Atlantic Eye Institute
Atlantic Eye Institute
Atlantic Eye Institute is the premier eye care provider serving the Beaufort area, offering both optometry and ophthalmology services. With board-certified doctors and state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, they provide comprehensive eye care including advanced cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and diabetic retinopathy treatment. Patients consistently praise their thorough examinations, modern facilities, and compassionate staff. The practice has built an exceptional reputation for handling complex eye conditions while also providing routine vision care.
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Dr. John Tuten, OD
Morehead City Eye Care
Dr. John Tuten leads Morehead City Eye Care, serving Beaufort and surrounding communities with exceptional comprehensive eye care. The practice specializes in family eye care with particular expertise in pediatric vision, contact lens fittings for complex prescriptions, and advanced dry eye treatment. Patients consistently highlight Dr. Tuten's thorough approach, friendly staff, and modern equipment. The practice has built strong relationships with local families through their personalized care and commitment to patient education.
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Dr. Michael Whitley, OD
Crystal Coast Eye Care
Dr. Michael Whitley established Crystal Coast Eye Care with a focus on comprehensive ocular health and advanced vision correction. The practice serves the entire Crystal Coast region including Beaufort, offering specialized services for ocular diseases, emergency eye care, and sports vision optimization. With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Whitley is known for his diagnostic expertise and patient-centered approach. The practice features the latest diagnostic technology and maintains strong referral relationships with regional specialists for complex cases.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Beaufort, NC, and what should I look for?
You can find local optometrists in Beaufort by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Carteret Health Care, or checking with local pharmacies. Look for a doctor who is licensed in North Carolina, has a convenient location (like on Live Oak Street or near the waterfront district), and offers the specific services you need, such as comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, or management of ocular diseases common in coastal climates.
Do optometrists in Beaufort, NC, typically accept vision insurance, and how can I verify?
Most optometry practices in Beaufort accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and many Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC plans. However, coverage can vary. It's best to call the optometrist's office directly before scheduling an appointment. You can provide your insurance details, and their staff can verify your benefits, including copays for exams and allowances for frames or contacts, specific to their practice.
What specialized eye care services might I need from a Beaufort optometrist due to the coastal environment?
Living in coastal Beaufort means increased exposure to sun, wind, and sand, which can affect eye health. A local optometrist can provide essential services like prescribing high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection, managing dry eye syndrome exacerbated by wind, and treating eye allergies common in the region. They are also skilled in detecting sun-related damage and can provide advice on protective eyewear for boating and fishing.
What is the typical process for scheduling an eye exam with an optometrist in Beaufort?
To schedule an exam in Beaufort, simply call the optometry office of your choice. Many practices now also offer online booking through their websites. When you call, be prepared to provide your personal information and reason for the visit (e.g., routine exam, contact lens issue). New patient appointments may require a longer time slot. It's advisable to schedule well in advance, especially before summer, as local practices can get busy with seasonal residents and tourists.
Are there optometrists in Beaufort who can handle emergency eye care, and what constitutes an emergency?
Yes, several optometrists in Beaufort offer emergency care for urgent issues like sudden vision loss, eye pain, foreign object removal (like sand or debris), or significant redness and injury. In a true ocular emergency, you should call your optometrist's office immediately; they will often provide instructions or fit you in. For after-hours emergencies, they may direct you to the Emergency Department at Carteret Health Care, which can manage critical situations until you can see your eye doctor.