The Best Optometrists in Coward, SC
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Coward. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James C. McLeod
McLeod Vision Center
Dr. James C. McLeod operates one of the most highly-rated vision care practices in the Florence area, serving patients from Coward and surrounding communities for over two decades. The practice is known for its comprehensive approach to eye health, utilizing advanced diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. Patients consistently praise Dr. McLeod's thorough examinations, clear communication, and family-friendly approach. The practice accepts most insurance plans and offers an extensive selection of eyewear with personalized fitting services.
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Dr. Mark S. Harrelson
Harrelson Eye Care
Dr. Mark Harrelson has built a reputation for exceptional patient care and clinical expertise since establishing his practice in 2002. Serving the Coward area from his Florence location, he specializes in family optometry with particular emphasis on children's vision and sports-related eye care. The practice features state-of-the-art equipment including optical coherence tomography and automated refraction systems. Reviews consistently highlight the friendly staff, minimal wait times, and Dr. Harrelson's ability to explain complex eye health issues in understandable terms.
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Dr. James W. Gasque
Lake City Eye Center
Dr. James Gasque operates Lake City Eye Center, providing comprehensive vision care to patients throughout the region including Coward residents. With nearly two decades of experience, he offers specialized services in managing age-related eye conditions and complex contact lens fittings. The practice is equipped with modern diagnostic technology and maintains relationships with regional ophthalmologists for surgical co-management. Patient reviews frequently mention the comfortable office environment, thorough examinations, and the practice's ability to handle urgent eye care needs promptly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Coward, SC?
Since Coward is a smaller town, you have a few options. You can search online directories like Google Maps or Healthgrades using "Coward, SC optometrist" as your search term. Many residents also find eye doctors through recommendations from their primary care physician at the McLeod Health Family Medicine Center in nearby Florence or by asking for referrals from neighbors and local pharmacists. Some optometrists from larger neighboring cities like Florence or Lake City may also serve the Coward community.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist near Coward?
Given Coward's rural setting, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and willingness to serve your area, their office hours, and the range of services offered on-site. Look for practices that accept your specific vision or health insurance plan. It's also wise to check if they have modern diagnostic equipment for comprehensive eye exams and if they can handle common eye conditions like dry eye or diabetes-related issues, which may otherwise require a longer trip to a specialist in Florence.
Do optometrists in the Coward area accept Medicaid or Medicare for eye exams?
Yes, many optometry practices in the Florence County region, which includes Coward, accept both Medicaid and Medicare for medically necessary eye exams. However, coverage for routine vision exams and eyeglasses under these plans can be limited. It is crucial to call the specific optometrist's office you are considering to verify they are currently accepting new patients with your insurance and to understand exactly what services are covered before scheduling an appointment.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving Coward residents?
Optometrists in the area provide comprehensive eye exams to check vision and eye health, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and manage conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and dry eye syndrome. Given the agricultural surroundings of Coward, some practices may be particularly experienced in treating eye allergies or injuries. For advanced surgical needs, they will refer patients to ophthalmologists in nearby Florence or Myrtle Beach.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Coward, SC?
Appointment availability can vary. For local or regional optometrists, it's common to schedule a routine comprehensive eye exam several weeks in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. For more urgent concerns, many offices will work to accommodate patients sooner. It's recommended to call early, particularly if you need an appointment that fits around farming or local work schedules. Some offices in Florence may offer more flexible scheduling than smaller satellite locations.