The Best Optometrists in Buffalo, ND
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Buffalo. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Steven R. Olson
Eye Care Associates
Dr. Steven R. Olson at Eye Care Associates is highly regarded for his extensive experience and patient-centered approach. With over two decades in practice, he specializes in comprehensive eye care, including advanced diagnostic services for conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. The clinic is known for its state-of-the-art technology, including digital retinal imaging and optical coherence tomography, ensuring accurate diagnoses and safe care. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and family-friendly environment, with many noting Dr. Olson's thoroughness and ability to explain complex issues clearly. The practice serves the Buffalo area and has a strong track record of high patient satisfaction and safety.
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Dr. David A. Tungseth
Tungseth Eye Clinic
Dr. David A. Tungseth leads Tungseth Eye Clinic with a focus on personalized care and innovative treatments. Established in 2005, the clinic offers a wide range of services, including specialized dry eye management and sports vision therapy, using modern equipment like automated perimetry and corneal topography. Dr. Tungseth is recognized for his compassionate approach and expertise in managing complex eye conditions. The clinic maintains high safety standards with strict sterilization protocols and a dedicated team of certified optometric technicians. Families from Buffalo and surrounding areas appreciate the comfortable atmosphere, minimal wait times, and excellent follow-up care, contributing to its outstanding reputation.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Neill
O'Neill Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. O'Neill at O'Neill Eye Care is celebrated for his expertise in vision therapy and emergency eye services, serving the Buffalo region with reliability since 2008. The practice emphasizes holistic eye health, offering advanced options like custom contact lenses and co-management for surgical procedures. Dr. O'Neill and his team use cutting-edge diagnostic tools, such as digital slit lamps and visual field analyzers, to ensure precise assessments and patient safety. Reviews highlight the clinic's welcoming environment, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to family needs, including pediatric eye care. With a focus on continuous education and community involvement, this practice stands out for its consistent high-quality care and patient loyalty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Buffalo, ND, and what should I look for?
In a smaller community like Buffalo, finding an optometrist often involves checking local directories, asking for recommendations from your primary care provider at the Buffalo Medical Center, or seeking referrals from neighbors. Look for an optometrist who is licensed in North Dakota and has experience serving rural communities. Consider their office hours and availability, as options may be more limited compared to larger cities. It's also wise to verify if they offer the specific services you need, such as comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, or management of conditions like dry eye, which can be prevalent in North Dakota's climate.
Do optometrists in Buffalo, ND, accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. In Buffalo and the surrounding Pierce County area, most optometry offices will accept major medical insurance (like Medicare, Medicaid, or Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota) for medically necessary eye care. For vision-specific plans (like VSP or EyeMed), it's crucial to call the optometrist's office directly to confirm they are in-network. Given the limited number of providers in smaller towns, it's common for residents to travel to nearby larger hubs like Grand Forks for certain in-network specialists, so confirming local coverage is an important first step.
What eye care services are typically available from an optometrist in Buffalo?
Optometrists in Buffalo, ND, typically provide comprehensive eye exams to assess vision and eye health, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and diagnose common eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Given the agricultural setting, they may also have experience with eye injuries or irritations related to farming. Many practices also offer a selection of eyewear frames. For more specialized treatments or surgeries, your Buffalo optometrist will coordinate referrals to ophthalmologists in larger regional centers like Devils Lake or Grand Forks.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with a Buffalo optometrist?
Appointment availability in Buffalo can vary. For routine eye exams, it's advisable to call several weeks in advance, especially if you need an appointment that fits around farming or seasonal work schedules. Some practices may have longer wait times due to serving a broad rural area. For urgent concerns, such as a sudden eye injury or infection, most offices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's always best to call the practice directly to understand their current scheduling timeline and if they offer any standby or cancellation lists.
Are there any specific considerations for choosing an optometrist in a rural area like Buffalo, ND?
Yes, choosing an optometrist in rural Buffalo involves unique considerations. Proximity and travel distance are key factors. Check the optometrist's hospital or emergency referral network in case specialized care is needed. Inquire about their diagnostic technology; some smaller practices may utilize advanced digital imaging that can be shared remotely with specialists. Also, consider their flexibility with scheduling for agricultural workers and their understanding of local environmental factors, such as dust, pollen, and sun exposure, which can impact eye health. Building a relationship with a local provider who understands the community's needs is particularly valuable.