The Best Optometrists in Paterson, WA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Paterson. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David R. Whitaker
Whitaker Eye Care
Dr. David R. Whitaker has built a reputation over 20 years for providing exceptional, family-focused eye care with an emphasis on safety and advanced technology. The practice features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, a highly qualified staff, and a welcoming environment that ensures high patient satisfaction. Services include comprehensive exams, contact lens specialties, and pediatric care, making it a trusted choice for Paterson area residents seeking reliable optometry services.
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Dr. Steven M. Bower
Bower Eye Care
With 18 years of dedicated service, Dr. Steven M. Bower leads a practice known for its thorough eye care and strong community ties. The clinic prioritizes patient safety with modern amenities, experienced staff, and a focus on individualized care. High family satisfaction ratings reflect their commitment to quality, including specialized services for various eye conditions, serving the Paterson region with consistency and expertise.
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Dr. James A. Kight
Kight Eye Center
Dr. James A. Kight offers over 16 years of specialized optometry care, emphasizing personalized treatment and advanced vision solutions. The center is acclaimed for its friendly, professional atmosphere, robust safety protocols, and family-oriented approach. With services ranging from routine exams to complex vision therapy, it has earned high marks for patient satisfaction and is a reliable provider for the Paterson community and surrounding areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in or near Paterson, WA?
Given Paterson's small, rural community, you may need to look in nearby towns for a wider selection. Start by checking online directories like the Washington State Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for the Paterson or Burbank area. Asking for personal recommendations from your primary care provider at Lourdes Medical Center or neighbors in the Paterson/Burbank area is also very effective. Many residents find quality care with optometrists in the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland), which is a common commute for specialized services.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in this rural part of Washington?
For the Paterson area, key factors include the optometrist's proximity and availability, as travel is often required. Look for practices that offer comprehensive eye exams, manage common rural issues like dry eye from the arid climate, and have a strong network for referrals if specialized care (e.g., for glaucoma or retinal conditions) is needed in the Tri-Cities. Check if they offer flexible scheduling to accommodate agricultural or seasonal work schedules common in the region. Also, verify they accept your vision or medical insurance, as options may be more limited locally.
Do optometrists near Paterson, WA, accept my insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies. Most optometry practices in the surrounding Tri-Cities and Walla Walla areas accept major vision plans (like VSP or EyeMed) and medical insurance (like Regence BlueShield, Premera, or Medicare). It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of time to confirm they are in-network for your plan. Due to the limited number of providers in immediate rural areas, you may have a narrower network, so verifying this before scheduling an appointment in Kennewick, Pasco, or Richland is highly recommended.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists serving the Paterson community?
Optometrists in clinics serving the Paterson and Lower Columbia Basin region typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease. Given the area's high sunlight exposure, many emphasize UV protection and offer specialized testing for dry eye syndrome. While basic services are available, for complex surgical procedures or certain advanced treatments, they will coordinate referrals to ophthalmologists in the Tri-Cities or Walla Walla.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye exam with an optometrist near Paterson, WA?
For routine eye exams, scheduling 2-4 weeks in advance is often sufficient, but it can vary by practice. For more urgent concerns or to see a specific popular provider, you may need to book further out. Due to the smaller number of practices serving the wider rural area, appointment slots can fill up, especially at the beginning or end of the year when insurance benefits renew. It's best to call early. Many practices in the Tri-Cities also offer online scheduling for convenience, saving you a phone call from Paterson.