The Best Optometrists in Shaftsbury, VT
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Shaftsbury. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David A. Brown
Bennington Eye Care
Dr. David A. Brown leads Bennington Eye Care with over two decades of experience, specializing in family-focused optometry services. The practice is renowned for its thorough eye health evaluations, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalized care plans. Patients consistently praise the friendly staff, short wait times, and Dr. Brown's expertise in managing conditions like diabetes-related eye issues and cataracts. The clinic maintains high safety standards with modern sterilization protocols and offers a wide selection of frames and lenses.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Brien
Bennington Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. O'Brien is a highly respected optometrist at Bennington Eye Care, known for his compassionate approach and expertise in dry eye management and vision therapy. With nearly 20 years in practice, he emphasizes preventive care and uses state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses. The practice has excellent family satisfaction ratings, with reviews highlighting Dr. O'Brien's patience with children and seniors, as well as the clean, welcoming environment. Safety is prioritized with HIPAA-compliant records and infection control measures.
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Dr. John P. Loomis
Loomis Eye Care
Dr. John P. Loomis operates Loomis Eye Care, serving the Shaftsbury area with a focus on advanced optometric care and emergency services. With 16 years of experience, he is skilled in myopia control for children and fitting complex contact lenses. The practice is praised for its efficient scheduling, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to patient education. Dr. Loomis maintains a strong safety record with regular equipment calibration and a patient-centered approach, ensuring high satisfaction among families and individuals with diverse vision needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Shaftsbury, VT?
In Shaftsbury, you can start by searching online directories like Google Maps or Healthgrades with the keyword 'optometrist Shaftsbury VT.' Checking with the Shaftsbury Town Office or local community boards can also yield recommendations. Many residents rely on word-of-mouth referrals from neighbors or primary care providers at nearby clinics in Bennington County. It's also common to find optometrists with practices in the larger Bennington area who serve Shaftsbury residents.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Shaftsbury area?
When choosing an optometrist near Shaftsbury, consider their proximity for convenience, especially during Vermont winters. Look for practices that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage ocular diseases common with aging populations, and provide fittings for glasses or contacts. Check if they have experience with pediatric eye care if needed. Reading local reviews on platforms like Facebook community groups or Google can provide insight into patient experiences. Also, verify they accept your vision or health insurance, as provider networks can be more limited in rural Vermont.
Do optometrists in Shaftsbury accept my vision insurance?
Acceptance varies by practice. Most optometrists serving Shaftsbury and Bennington County typically accept major vision plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, as well as health insurance for medical eye exams. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of your appointment to confirm they are in-network with your plan. Some smaller, independent practices in the area might operate on a fee-for-service basis but can provide documentation for you to submit to your insurer for reimbursement.
What specialized eye care services are available from optometrists near Shaftsbury, VT?
Optometrists in the Shaftsbury and greater Bennington region offer services tailored to the community's needs. This includes comprehensive eye exams, diagnosis and management of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy, which are important for Vermont's older adult population. Many also provide pediatric eye exams, contact lens fittings (including for astigmatism and presbyopia), and urgent care for eye injuries or infections. Given the outdoor lifestyle, some may offer guidance on protective eyewear for activities like hiking and skiing. For highly specialized surgical care, they can coordinate referrals to ophthalmologists in Bennington or Albany.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with a Shaftsbury-area optometrist, and what should I bring?
For routine eye exams in the Shaftsbury area, it's advisable to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for popular practitioners or during late summer/fall before school starts. For urgent issues, many practices can accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. When you go, bring your current glasses or contact lens information, a list of any medications, your vision and medical insurance cards, and a form of ID. If you have a complex medical history, bringing relevant records is helpful. Also, be prepared to discuss any specific visual challenges related to driving on rural Vermont roads or your daily activities.