The Best Optometrists in Providence, RI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Providence. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Kenneth S. Maller
Maller Eye Care
Dr. Kenneth Maller leads one of Providence's most highly-regarded independent optometry practices, consistently earning near-perfect ratings for exceptional patient care. With over two decades of experience, the practice specializes in comprehensive family eye care with advanced diagnostic technology. Patients consistently praise the thorough examinations, personalized attention, and excellent staff. The practice offers extensive contact lens services including specialty fittings and manages various ocular diseases. Their commitment to patient education and preventive care has made them a trusted choice for generations of Providence families.
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Dr. Richard J. Cloherty
Cloherty Eye Associates
Dr. Richard Cloherty operates a well-established optometry practice known for its medical approach to eye care. Specializing in glaucoma management, cataract evaluations, and diabetic eye exams, the practice serves as a referral center for complex ocular conditions. Patients consistently highlight the doctor's expertise, modern facility with advanced diagnostic equipment, and compassionate care approach. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers emergency eye care services. Their long-standing reputation in the community and commitment to continuing education make them a top choice for comprehensive vision health.
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Dr. Jordan Kassalow
Vision Source Providence (part of Vision Source network)
Vision Source Providence, led by Dr. Jordan Kassalow, represents a premium optometry experience within a respected national network. The practice is particularly noted for its pediatric eye care expertise and myopia control programs for children. Patients consistently praise the modern facility, extensive frame selection, and thorough approach to vision care. The practice utilizes cutting-edge technology including digital retinal imaging and offers specialized services like sports vision training. Their commitment to personalized care plans and family-friendly environment has earned them consistent high ratings across multiple review platforms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find an optometrist in Providence that accepts my specific vision or medical insurance?
Many Providence-area optometry practices list accepted insurance plans on their websites. You can also call the office directly to verify. For Rhode Island Medicaid (Rite Care) or Medicare, it's best to confirm with the provider. The Rhode Island Optometric Association website may also have a searchable directory of members with insurance information. Additionally, major insurance providers like Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI, UnitedHealthcare, and VSP often have online provider search tools specific to the Providence area.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Providence for a child's first eye exam?
Look for an optometrist in Providence who specializes in pediatric eye care or has significant experience with children. Practices in areas like the East Side, Wayland Square, or near Hasbro Children's Hospital often have this focus. Check if the office is child-friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere and staff trained to work with young patients. It's also helpful to find a provider who offers comprehensive pediatric services, including vision therapy if needed, and who can coordinate care with pediatricians at local hospitals like Hasbro or Women & Infants.
Are there optometrists in Providence who offer same-day or emergency eye care appointments?
Yes, several optometry practices in Providence offer same-day appointments for urgent issues like eye infections, sudden vision changes, or foreign object removal. Many clinics in downtown Providence, Federal Hill, and the Jewelry District accommodate emergencies. It's advisable to call the practice first to explain your situation. Some may have specific hours reserved for urgent care. For after-hours emergencies, they will typically direct you to the nearest emergency room or an on-call ophthalmology service associated with Rhode Island Hospital or Miriam Hospital.
What specialized eye care services are commonly available from optometrists in the Providence area?
Beyond routine exams and glasses/contacts, many Providence optometrists offer specialized services tailored to the community's needs. This includes management of dry eye disease (common in New England's variable climate), myopia control for children, treatment of eye conditions related to systemic diseases like diabetes, and fitting specialty contact lenses. Given the academic and tech presence in Providence (Brown University, RISD, Johnson & Wales), several practices also specialize in computer vision syndrome and offer lenses with blue light filtering. Some may also provide pre- and post-operative care for LASIK and cataract surgery performed at local surgical centers.
How far in advance do I typically need to book a routine eye exam with an optometrist in Providence?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam, booking 2 to 6 weeks in advance is common for popular optometrists in Providence, especially during back-to-school season (August-September) and at the end of the year when insurance benefits reset. Appointments may be easier to schedule in the winter months. Many practices now offer online scheduling through their websites. For faster service, consider practices in surrounding neighborhoods like Pawtucket, Cranston, or North Providence, or larger retail optical chains in Providence Place mall or on Thayer Street, which may have more frequent appointment slots.