The Best Optometrists in Townsend, TN
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Townsend. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David Harris
Harris Vision Center
Dr. David Harris operates one of the most established and highly-rated optometry practices in the Townsend area, serving the community for over 30 years. His practice is known for comprehensive eye care services including advanced diagnostic testing, contact lens fittings, and management of ocular diseases. Patients consistently praise his thorough examinations, personalized care approach, and family-friendly atmosphere. The practice features modern diagnostic equipment and offers a wide selection of eyewear.
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Dr. John R. Maples
Maryville Family Vision
Located just 20 minutes from Townsend in Maryville, Dr. Maples has built a reputation for exceptional family eye care with special emphasis on pediatric optometry. The practice offers state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and comprehensive vision services. Patients frequently mention the friendly staff, thorough examinations, and excellent follow-up care. Maryville Family Vision serves many Townsend residents and is known for accommodating emergency appointments and providing detailed explanations of eye health conditions.
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Dr. James Braden
Braden Eye Center
While located in Knoxville (approximately 35 minutes from Townsend), Dr. Braden's practice serves patients throughout East Tennessee including Blount County. The practice specializes in medical optometry and offers advanced services including retinal imaging, visual field testing, and co-management of surgical procedures. Dr. Braden is particularly noted for his expertise in managing complex eye conditions and his collaborative approach with ophthalmologists. The practice receives consistent praise for their professional staff and comprehensive care approach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Townsend, TN?
In Townsend, you can start by asking for recommendations from your primary care physician at the local Blount Memorial Primary Care center or from neighbors in the community. Checking online reviews for practices like those in nearby Maryville or Walland can also be helpful, as many Townsend residents utilize eye care services in these adjacent towns. The Townsend Visitor Center may also have suggestions for established local healthcare providers.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Townsend area?
Optometrists serving Townsend and the surrounding Smoky Mountain region typically offer comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and management of common conditions like dry eye (which can be aggravated by seasonal allergies here). Many also provide pre- and post-operative care for cataract surgery, which is relevant for the area's older demographic. Due to Townsend's quieter setting, for specialized services like advanced glaucoma treatment or pediatric specialty care, you may be referred to a larger practice in Maryville or Knoxville.
Do optometrists near Townsend, TN accept my vision insurance?
Acceptance varies by practice. Most optometry offices in the nearby areas (like Maryville or Alcoa) that serve Townsend patients typically accept major vision plans like VSP, EyeMed, and many Medicare plans. It's highly recommended to call the specific office ahead of time to verify they are in-network with your insurance, especially if you have a plan through a local employer like DENSO or the Blount County School System. Some smaller independent practices might also offer competitive self-pay rates for uninsured patients.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist in a small town like Townsend?
Given Townsend's small-town nature, consider the optometrist's proximity and office hours, especially if you need to schedule appointments around seasonal tourism work. Look for a practice with a reliable optical shop on-site or a strong relationship with a local frame provider, as immediate access to glasses repairs or replacements is practical. Also, consider if the optometrist has experience managing eye conditions common in the area, such as those related to diabetes or age-related macular degeneration, and whether they offer telehealth consultations for follow-ups to minimize travel to larger cities.
How far in advance do I need to book an eye exam with an optometrist near Townsend, TN?
For optometrists in the immediate Townsend area or in nearby gateway communities, appointment availability can vary with the tourist seasons. It's generally advisable to book a routine eye exam several weeks to a month in advance, especially during the busy spring and fall foliage seasons when the population swells. For more urgent concerns, many practices in Maryville (a short drive away) may offer same-day or next-day appointments for issues like eye infections or sudden vision changes. Always call the practice directly for the most accurate scheduling information.