The Best Optometrists in Saint Matthews, SC
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Saint Matthews. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. John L. Griffith
Palmetto Eye & Laser Center
Dr. John Griffith is a highly respected optometrist with over 25 years of experience serving the Saint Matthews and Orangeburg areas. As part of Palmetto Eye & Laser Center, he provides comprehensive eye care services with exceptional patient satisfaction ratings. The practice is known for its advanced diagnostic technology, thorough eye examinations, and personalized care approach. Patients consistently praise Dr. Griffith's expertise, bedside manner, and the practice's professional staff. The center offers complete optical services including designer frames and contact lens fittings.
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Dr. William C. Hiott
Orangeburg Eye Clinic
Dr. William Hiott operates Orangeburg Eye Clinic, serving Saint Matthews and the broader Orangeburg County area with comprehensive optometric care. With over two decades of experience, he specializes in family eye care, pediatric vision, and management of ocular diseases. The clinic features state-of-the-art equipment and offers an extensive selection of eyewear. Patients consistently highlight the practice's thorough examinations, friendly staff, and Dr. Hiott's patient-centered approach to vision care. The clinic accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible appointment scheduling.
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Dr. Michael D. Jones
LensCrafters at Columbia Place Mall
Dr. Michael Jones provides optometric services at LensCrafters in Columbia, serving patients from Saint Matthews and surrounding communities. With extensive experience in clinical optometry, he offers comprehensive eye examinations, contact lens fittings, and management of common eye conditions. The practice is known for its convenient hours, modern optical technology, and extensive frame selection. Patients appreciate Dr. Jones' detailed explanations, thorough approach to eye health, and the practice's ability to accommodate same-day appointments for urgent vision needs. The location offers one-hour service on many eyeglass prescriptions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Saint Matthews, SC?
Start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the Calhoun County Medical Center or from local pharmacists. You can also check the South Carolina Optometric Association's online directory, which allows you to filter for practitioners in Saint Matthews. Reading verified patient reviews on local business pages for clinics like Family Eye Care or Matthews Vision Center can provide insight into patient experiences. Many Saint Matthews optometrists also have a strong community presence, so checking with neighbors or local Facebook community groups can be helpful.
What eye care services are typically offered by optometrists in Saint Matthews?
Optometrists in Saint Matthews provide comprehensive eye exams for all ages, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's demographics, many practices also specialize in pediatric eye care and management of age-related conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Some clinics may offer on-site optical shops for immediate eyewear selection. For specialized surgical care, such as cataract surgery, your Saint Matthews optometrist will coordinate a referral to an ophthalmologist in nearby Columbia or Orangeburg.
Do optometrists in Saint Matthews accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Saint Matthews accept a range of vision insurance plans, including VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as medical insurance like Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina and Medicare for medically necessary visits. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Be prepared to provide your insurance details when scheduling. Some smaller, independent practices may also offer affordable self-pay options or payment plans for patients without vision coverage.
What should I look for when choosing between the optometry practices in Saint Matthews?
Consider the practice's hours and location convenience for you in Saint Matthews or surrounding Calhoun County. Look for an optometrist whose expertise matches your needs, such as pediatric care, contact lens fittings, or dry eye management. Check the technology available; modern practices often have digital retinal imaging and advanced diagnostic equipment. The atmosphere of the office and the friendliness of the staff are also important for a comfortable experience. Finally, consider whether you prefer a smaller, personalized practice or a larger clinic that might offer more immediate appointment availability.
How far in advance do I typically need to book an eye exam in Saint Matthews, SC?
For a routine comprehensive eye exam in Saint Matthews, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. New patient appointments may require more lead time. For urgent concerns like sudden vision changes or eye injuries, most Saint Matthews optometry offices will work to accommodate you the same day or within 24 hours as an emergency visit. The best strategy is to call the office directly, as some may have online booking options. Planning ahead for back-to-school exams in late summer or year-end insurance benefits is highly recommended.