The Best Optometrists in Howe, OK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Howe. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James R. Milligan
Milligan Eye Care
Dr. James R. Milligan has been serving the Howe area and greater Le Flore County for over two decades with a reputation for exceptional care quality and patient safety. His practice features state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing, and is praised for its thorough eye exams and family-friendly approach. Patients consistently highlight the staff's professionalism, minimal wait times, and compassionate service, making it a top choice for comprehensive vision care.
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Dr. John D. Hoggard
Hoggard Eye Care
Dr. John D. Hoggard leads a highly-rated practice known for its advanced care and strong safety records, serving patients from Howe and surrounding regions. With a focus on personalized treatment plans and modern amenities like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and same-day appointments for emergencies, the practice excels in patient satisfaction. Reviews frequently commend the knowledgeable staff, clean facility, and Dr. Hoggard's expertise in managing complex eye conditions, ensuring reliable and family-centered optometry services.
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Dr. Steven C. Black
Black Eye Care
Dr. Steven C. Black offers dedicated optometry services with a emphasis on preventive care and community trust, making his practice a reliable option for Howe residents. Equipped with modern tools for accurate diagnoses and a focus on patient education, the practice is recognized for its thoroughness and friendly environment. Families appreciate the affordable pricing, flexible scheduling, and Dr. Black's attentive approach to both routine and specialized vision needs, supported by positive feedback on care consistency and staff courtesy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Howe, OK, and what should I look for?
In Howe, you can find local optometrists by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center in nearby Poteau, or checking with local pharmacies. Since Howe is a small town, many residents also look for optometrists in neighboring communities like Poteau or Heavener. Look for a practitioner who is licensed by the Oklahoma Board of Examiners in Optometry, has positive patient reviews, and offers the specific services you need, such as comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, or management of conditions like glaucoma or diabetic eye disease.
Do optometrists near Howe, OK, accept SoonerCare (Oklahoma Medicaid) or other insurance plans?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. While there may not be an optometrist directly within Howe's city limits, many practices in the surrounding Le Flore County area accept SoonerCare for eligible children and adults for routine eye exams. It is crucial to contact the specific optometry office in Poteau, Heavener, or Talihina beforehand to verify they accept your insurance plan (e.g., Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma, HealthChoice) and to understand what services are covered. Always confirm your coverage details, including copays and allowances for frames or contact lenses, prior to your appointment.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Howe, OK area?
Optometrists serving the Howe community typically provide comprehensive eye exams to assess vision and eye health, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, and diagnose common eye conditions like dry eye, infections, or refractive errors. Given the area's demographics, many practices also specialize in managing age-related conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, and can provide pre- and post-operative care for patients who need surgery. Some may offer pediatric eye care and sports vision services. For more complex surgical needs, they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in larger regional centers like Fort Smith, AR.
How far in advance do I typically need to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist near Howe, OK?
Appointment availability can vary. For a routine eye exam with a popular optometrist in a neighboring town like Poteau, you might need to schedule 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially during back-to-school season or at the end of the year when insurance benefits reset. For more urgent concerns (like a sudden eye infection or injury), most practices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments as a medical priority. It's best to call the office directly to inquire about their current schedule and if they have a cancellation list you can join for an earlier slot.
Are there optometrists near Howe, OK, that offer evening or weekend hours for appointments?
Given that Howe is a rural community, most optometry practices in the immediate region operate during standard business hours on weekdays. However, some clinics in larger nearby towns like Poteau may offer extended hours one evening a week (e.g., until 6 or 7 PM) or have limited Saturday morning hours to accommodate working patients and families. It is not common to find Sunday hours. When searching for an optometrist, be sure to explicitly ask about their hours of operation when you call to ensure they align with your schedule. Some may also offer telehealth consultations for follow-up visits.