The Best Optometrists in Durham, NC
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
Myrtle Family Eye Care
Myrtle Family Eye Care
Myrtle Family Eye Care is a highly-rated independent practice known for exceptional patient care and comprehensive services. Dr. Tracie Ingram and her team provide personalized eye care with advanced technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. The practice excels in family eye care with special expertise in pediatric optometry, myopia management, and contact lens fittings. Patients consistently praise the thorough examinations, friendly staff, and comfortable office environment. The practice has maintained excellent safety records and high patient satisfaction scores since opening in 2008.
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Duke Eye Center
Duke University Health System
As part of Duke University Medical Center, Duke Eye Center offers world-class optometric care with access to cutting-edge research and technology. The practice includes both optometrists and ophthalmologists providing comprehensive eye care services. They specialize in medical eye conditions including glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration. The facility features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and offers advanced treatment options. Patients appreciate the thoroughness of examinations, expert staff, and the academic medical center environment. The practice has been serving the Durham community for over two decades with outstanding safety records and patient satisfaction.
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Chapel Hill Ophthalmology
Chapel Hill Ophthalmology
While located in nearby Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill Ophthalmology serves the entire Triangle region including Durham patients. The practice offers comprehensive optometric services with a team of experienced optometrists and ophthalmologists. They provide advanced diagnostic services, contact lens fittings, and medical eye care including treatment for glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. The practice is known for its modern facility, advanced technology including optical coherence tomography, and personalized patient care. Patients consistently rate them highly for professional expertise, thorough examinations, and excellent customer service. They have built a strong reputation for quality eye care since 2004.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find an optometrist in Durham, NC that accepts my vision insurance?
The best way is to use your insurance provider's online directory, filtering for in-network optometrists in Durham zip codes (like 27701, 27703, 27705, 27707). Many Durham practices, including those in the Southpoint, Ninth Street, and Brier Creek areas, list accepted plans on their websites. You can also call local offices directly—they are familiar with major plans like Duke Health's network, VSP, EyeMed, and many Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC vision plans common in the Triangle.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Durham, especially for specialized needs like dry eye or myopia control?
Look for a Durham optometrist who emphasizes their specialty areas. For dry eye, seek practices with advanced diagnostic technology like meibography or LipiScan, which are offered at several clinics in the Research Triangle Park and South Durham areas. For pediatric care and myopia control (increasingly popular among Durham families), look for providers certified in orthokeratology or offering treatments like MiSight contact lenses. Checking reviews on platforms like Google or Nextdoor for Durham-specific feedback can also highlight a doctor's expertise.
Are there optometrists in Durham who offer same-day or emergency eye care appointments?
Yes, several Durham optometry practices accommodate urgent needs. Offices associated with larger optical retailers or multi-doctor practices in areas like Northgate, Hope Valley, and near Duke University Hospital often have slots for emergencies such as sudden vision loss, eye injuries, or severe infections. It's advisable to call as soon as they open. Some practices also have after-hours contact information for true emergencies, given Durham's status as a major medical hub.
What is the typical cost range for a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist in Durham without insurance?
In Durham, a comprehensive eye exam for glasses and contacts typically ranges from $100 to $200 without insurance, though this can vary. Exams at retail locations may be on the lower end, while independent practices or those offering advanced ocular health imaging (like OCT scans) may charge toward the higher end. Many Durham optometrists offer packages or memberships for uninsured patients that include the exam and discounts on frames or lenses. It's always best to call for a precise quote, as fees can differ between South Durham, Downtown, and North Durham offices.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with a popular optometrist in Durham, especially for back-to-school or year-end insurance benefits?
For popular Durham optometrists, especially during peak times like August for back-to-school or November/December for insurance benefits, scheduling 4-6 weeks in advance is wise. Practices near Duke, UNC, and in family-oriented neighborhoods like Woodcroft or Treyburn often have high demand. Many Durham offices now offer online scheduling, which can show real-time availability. If you need a specific doctor or a Saturday appointment, planning even further ahead is recommended.