The Best Optometrists in Buxton, NC
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Buxton. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael D. Sessoms
Outer Banks Eye Care
Dr. Michael D. Sessoms at Outer Banks Eye Care is highly regarded for his extensive experience and patient-centered approach, serving the Buxton and wider Outer Banks community since 2006. The practice emphasizes safety with advanced diagnostic technology and maintains a strong record of family satisfaction, offering amenities like same-day appointments and a wide selection of eyewear. With a focus on comprehensive care, including pediatric and geriatric optometry, patients consistently praise the thorough exams and friendly staff.
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Dr. Jennifer L. Brown
Coastal Eye Care
Dr. Jennifer L. Brown leads Coastal Eye Care with a reputation for excellence in eye health and safety, serving Buxton and surrounding areas since 2010. The practice is known for its state-of-the-art amenities, including digital retinal imaging and personalized care plans, resulting in high family satisfaction ratings. Patients highlight Dr. Brown's attentive approach and the staff's professionalism, making it a top choice for comprehensive optometric services in the region.
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Dr. Robert K. Jones
Avon Eye Care
Dr. Robert K. Jones at Avon Eye Care has built a trusted practice focused on safety and quality care for the Buxton and Hatteras Island community since 2008. With amenities like modern exam rooms and a broad range of eyewear options, the practice excels in family satisfaction and preventive eye health. Reviews often commend the thoroughness of exams and the compassionate staff, ensuring reliable optometric services for all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Buxton, NC, and what should I look for?
In Buxton, you can find optometrists by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from local residents or your primary care provider at the Outer Banks Family Medicine, or checking with the Dare County health resources. Look for an optometrist who is licensed in North Carolina, has experience with the specific eye care needs common in coastal communities (like managing dry eye from wind and sun exposure), and offers convenient hours, especially during the busy tourist season. Reading local reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook can also provide insight into patient experiences.
What specific eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in the Buxton area?
Optometrists in Buxton typically offer comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions. Given Buxton's location on Hatteras Island, many practices are adept at addressing issues related to extensive sun exposure, such as diagnosing and managing conditions like pterygium or cataracts, and providing expert advice on high-quality UV-protective sunglasses and sports eyewear for water activities. Some may also offer pre- and post-operative care for procedures like LASIK, though the surgeries themselves would require travel to a larger center.
Do optometrists in Buxton accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. Most optometrists in Buxton will accept major vision insurance plans like VSP or EyeMed, as well as medical insurance (like Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC) for medically necessary visits. It's crucial to call the specific optometry office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be sure to clarify what your plan covers—whether it's a routine vision exam or a medical exam for a specific issue like eye infections or injuries, which are common with the area's outdoor lifestyle.
What is the average cost of an eye exam without insurance in Buxton, NC?
The cost of a comprehensive eye exam without insurance in Buxton can range from approximately $80 to $150, though prices may be slightly higher during peak tourist season. This is generally for a routine vision exam. Fees for contact lens fittings or specialized tests are typically additional. It's always best to call the specific optometry office for their current self-pay pricing. Some practices may offer discounts for seniors or packages for families, which can be helpful for year-round residents.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with a Buxton optometrist, especially in the summer?
Due to Buxton's smaller, seasonal population, scheduling is key. For routine check-ups, it's advisable to book 2-4 weeks in advance. During the busy summer months (June through August), when the population swells with tourists and residents are more active outdoors, appointment slots fill quickly. It's recommended to schedule 4-6 weeks ahead if possible. For urgent concerns, such as a sudden eye injury from beach debris or severe irritation, most practices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments, so don't hesitate to call and explain the situation.