The Best Optometrists in Bison, SD
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Bison. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark A. Johnson
Hettinger Eye Clinic
Hettinger Eye Clinic, led by Dr. Mark A. Johnson, is a highly-rated practice serving the Bison area with over 18 years of experience. Known for exceptional care quality and patient safety, the clinic offers state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and personalized treatment plans. Staff includes certified optometric technicians, and the practice emphasizes family-friendly services, including pediatric eye care and advanced contact lens fittings. Patients consistently praise the thorough exams, compassionate staff, and comfortable environment, making it a top choice for rural eye care needs in the region.
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Dr. Lisa M. Smith
Mobridge Vision Center
Mobridge Vision Center, under Dr. Lisa M. Smith, provides reliable optometry services to Bison residents with a focus on safety and patient satisfaction. With 12 years of experience, the practice features modern amenities like digital retinal imaging and a wide selection of eyewear. The clinic is noted for its efficient, friendly staff and thorough approach to eye health, including management of conditions like cataracts and diabetes-related eye issues. Family-oriented care and positive reviews highlight its commitment to community health, serving as a trusted local option.
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Dr. Kevin R. Davis
Lemmon Family Eye Care
Lemmon Family Eye Care, operated by Dr. Kevin R. Davis, offers comprehensive optometry services with 15 years of expertise, catering to Bison and surrounding areas. The practice is renowned for its high care standards, including specialized services for low vision and sports-related eye needs. With a focus on safety and advanced diagnostic tools, the clinic ensures accurate assessments and personalized care. Patients appreciate the warm, professional environment and the doctor's dedication to family-centered optometry, supported by strong community feedback and a track record of excellent outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Bison, SD, given the limited options in a small town?
In a small community like Bison, finding an optometrist often involves looking at nearby towns. While Bison itself may not have a full-time practice, residents typically visit optometrists in larger neighboring communities such as Lemmon, Mobridge, or even as far as Bismarck, ND. Checking with the Bison Clinic or local pharmacy for recommendations is a great first step. You can also search online directories and filter by 'South Dakota' and 'rural health' to find practices that serve the Perkins County area.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Bison, SD area?
When choosing an optometrist near Bison, consider their proximity and travel requirements, as you'll likely be driving to another town. Look for practices that understand the needs of rural patients, such as flexible scheduling for longer travel days. Check if they have experience managing conditions common in agricultural communities, like dry eye from dust or sun exposure. It's also helpful to find an optometrist who has a long-standing relationship with the area and may offer telehealth consultations for follow-ups to minimize travel.
Do optometrists serving the Bison area accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies. Most optometry practices in the larger towns surrounding Bison (like Mobridge or Lemmon) accept major medical insurance (e.g., Blue Cross, Sanford Health Plan, Medicare) and vision plans (e.g., VSP, EyeMed). It is crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to verify they are in-network with your plan. Given the rural setting, some smaller practices might be out-of-network for certain plans, so confirming coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs is especially important to avoid surprises.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists near Bison, SD?
Optometrists in the region provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given Bison's remote location, some practices may have advanced diagnostic technology to reduce the need for referrals to distant specialists for initial assessments. Many also offer urgent care for eye injuries or infections, which is vital for a community where immediate specialist care is hours away. Always confirm the specific services when booking.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye exam with an optometrist near Bison, and what is the typical wait time?
Due to the limited number of providers serving a wide rural area, it's advisable to schedule routine eye exams several weeks to a couple of months in advance, especially for popular times like summer (after planting) or late fall (after harvest). For urgent issues, many practices try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. When calling, be upfront about your location in Bison, as some clinics may reserve specific days for patients traveling from outlying areas, which can help streamline your visit and reduce wait times at the office.