The Best Optometrists in Georgetown, SC
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Georgetown. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Coastal Eyes Optometry
Coastal Eyes Optometry
Coastal Eyes Optometry is a highly-rated independent practice known for exceptional patient care and advanced technology. Dr. James R. Smith and his team provide comprehensive eye health services with a focus on personalized treatment plans. The practice features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment for precise vision correction and early disease detection. Patients consistently praise the thorough examinations, friendly staff, and comfortable office environment. They accept most insurance plans and offer extensive eyewear selections.
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Beach Family Optometry
Beach Family Optometry
Located just 15 minutes from Georgetown in Murrells Inlet, Beach Family Optometry serves the entire coastal region with comprehensive vision care. Dr. Ashley R. Johnson leads a team dedicated to family-friendly eye health services, including specialized pediatric care and sports vision therapy. The practice is recognized for its modern facility, advanced diagnostic technology, and exceptional patient communication. They offer extensive contact lens options and designer eyewear collections with personalized fitting services.
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Waccamaw Eye Center
Waccamaw Eye Center
Waccamaw Eye Center has been serving Georgetown residents for nearly two decades with comprehensive medical and vision care. The practice specializes in managing complex eye conditions including diabetes-related eye disease, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Their experienced optometrists utilize cutting-edge technology for precise diagnoses and work closely with ophthalmologists for surgical co-management. Patients appreciate the professional yet compassionate care, efficient scheduling, and high-quality optical department with extensive frame selections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Georgetown, SC?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at Tidelands Health or from friends and neighbors in the Georgetown area. You can also search the South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association directory for licensed practitioners in Georgetown County. Many local residents trust established practices with long histories in the community, such as those in the downtown area or near the Waccamaw Medical Park. Reading Google and Facebook reviews specific to Georgetown optometrists can also provide valuable local insights.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Georgetown?
Optometrists in Georgetown provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common conditions like dry eye, which can be exacerbated by the coastal climate. Many practices also offer diagnosis and management of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the high UV exposure in the South Carolina Lowcountry, several local optometrists emphasize selecting protective lenses and sunglasses. Some offices may have on-site optical shops for convenient frame selection, while others work closely with nearby optical retailers.
Do Georgetown optometrists accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Georgetown accept a range of insurance plans, including major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, Medicare, and Medicaid. It's very common for them to also accept vision-specific plans from VSP or EyeMed. However, coverage can vary between practices. It's highly recommended to call the specific optometrist's office in Georgetown before your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan and to understand any co-pays or out-of-pocket costs for services like contact lens fittings, which are often separate from standard exam coverage.
What should I consider when choosing between the optometrists in Georgetown?
Consider the optometrist's experience, especially with any specific eye concerns you have (e.g., pediatric care, managing diabetes-related eye issues, or specialty contact lenses). Location and convenience are key in Georgetown—some may prefer a practice closer to their home in the historic district, while others near Murrells Inlet or Andrews might prioritize easy highway access. Check office hours to see if they accommodate your schedule, and inquire about the technology they use, such as digital retinal imaging. Finally, consider the overall patient experience, including friendliness of staff and the selection of frames if you plan to purchase glasses on-site.
How far in advance do I need to book an eye exam with a Georgetown optometrist?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for popular practices or during peak times like back-to-school season or the end of the year when insurance benefits often reset. For a medical eye concern (like sudden vision changes or eye injury), most Georgetown optometrists will work to accommodate you much sooner, often within 24-48 hours. New patient appointments may also require more lead time. Calling smaller, independent practices directly can sometimes yield earlier availability than larger regional chains.