The Best Optometrists in Broad Top, PA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Broad Top. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Huntingdon Eye Care
Independent Practice
Huntingdon Eye Care is a highly-rated independent practice known for its personalized patient care and family-friendly approach. With over 18 years of experience, they utilize advanced diagnostic technology for accurate eye health assessments. The practice emphasizes safety with rigorous sterilization protocols and offers a wide range of services, including pediatric eye care and contact lens fittings. Patients consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, comfortable environment, and thorough examinations, making it a trusted choice for families in the Broad Top area.
Services:
Visionworks of Altoona
Visionworks
Visionworks of Altoona is part of a reputable national chain with a strong local presence, serving the Broad Top region with comprehensive eye care services. Established over a decade ago, this location is praised for its efficient service, modern amenities, and wide selection of eyewear. The optometrists here are experienced in family-focused care, with a emphasis on safety through updated equipment and hygiene practices. High patient satisfaction scores reflect their commitment to quality, affordable options, and convenient scheduling for appointments.
Services:
Pearle Vision in State College
Pearle Vision
Pearle Vision in State College is a well-established practice known for its expert optometrists and high standards of care, easily accessible from Broad Top. With 15 years of operation, they offer a full suite of services, including vision therapy and advanced health screenings, using state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses. The practice is recognized for its safety records, friendly staff, and family-oriented approach, with numerous reviews highlighting thorough exams and excellent customer service. Their longevity and consistent ratings make them a reliable option for comprehensive eye care.
Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist serving the Broad Top, PA area?
In the Broad Top region, finding an optometrist often involves looking in nearby towns like Saxton, Hopewell, or Everett, as the immediate area has limited dedicated practices. You can start by checking with the Broad Top Area Medical Center for referrals, searching online directories like the Pennsylvania Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool filtered for 16621 and surrounding zip codes, or asking for recommendations from local pharmacies in Saxton. Many residents also find providers through word-of-mouth in the community.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a rural area like Broad Top?
Given Broad Top's rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and travel requirements, their range of on-site services to minimize referrals to distant specialists, and their flexibility with appointments. Look for practices that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage common conditions like dry eye or diabetes-related issues, and have a reliable optical shop for frames and lenses. It's also wise to confirm they accept your insurance (common providers in the area include Highmark Blue Shield, UPMC Health Plan, and Medicare) and offer emergency care for issues like foreign objects or sudden vision changes.
Do optometrists near Broad Top, PA offer pediatric eye exams, and when should my child have one?
Yes, several optometrists in practices serving the Broad Top and Southern Huntingdon County area offer pediatric eye care. The American Optometric Association recommends a first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months, again at age 3, and before starting school. Given the potential for longer travel to specialists, a local optometrist can provide these essential screenings for amblyopia ('lazy eye'), focusing problems, and eye alignment. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm the optometrist's experience with children and if the practice has child-friendly testing equipment.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam and glasses near Broad Top, and what payment options are available?
In the Broad Top region, a comprehensive eye exam without insurance typically ranges from $80 to $120, though prices can vary between independent practices and larger optical chains in nearby towns. Frames and lenses are an additional cost. Many local optometrists accept major vision insurance plans, Medicare (which covers annual exams for diabetics and those at high risk), and Medicaid (Medical Assistance). For those without insurance, ask about cash-pay discounts, payment plans, or membership programs. Some practices also participate in programs like Sight for Students for qualifying children.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist serving Broad Top, PA?
Appointment lead times can vary. For routine eye exams, it's common to schedule 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. Due to the limited number of providers in the immediate area, booking well ahead for a specific doctor is recommended. For urgent but non-emergency concerns (like a sudden prescription change or eye infection), many practices in the Huntingdon County area keep slots open for same-day or next-day appointments—always call first. For true eye emergencies, they will advise if you should visit their office or go directly to an emergency room.