The Best Optometrists in Rice, WA
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Rice. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Colville Vision Center
Independent
Colville Vision Center is a highly-rated independent practice known for its personalized care and modern diagnostic technology. With over 20 years of service, they excel in family-friendly eye care, including pediatric services and contact lens fittings. Patients consistently praise their thorough exams, compassionate staff, and commitment to safety, making them a top choice for residents in Rice and surrounding Stevens County areas.
Services:
Chewelah Eye Care
Independent
Chewelah Eye Care has built a strong reputation over 15 years for providing comprehensive eye care with a focus on patient satisfaction and safety. They offer services like dry eye treatment and glasses fitting, supported by a qualified team. Reviews highlight their friendly atmosphere, efficient service, and ability to cater to families, ensuring reliable vision care for the Rice community and nearby regions.
Services:
America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses
National Vision, Inc.
As part of a reputable national chain, this Spokane Valley location offers affordable, high-quality eye care with a focus on accessibility and family needs. With over a decade of service, they provide comprehensive exams, a wide selection of frames, and LASIK consultations. Their high review counts reflect consistent patient satisfaction, modern amenities, and a commitment to safety, serving Rice residents with convenient options in the broader metropolitan area.
Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist serving the Rice, WA area?
Since Rice is a small, unincorporated community, you'll primarily be looking at optometrists in nearby towns. Your best resources are online directories like the Washington State Optometric Association's 'Find a Doctor' tool, filtering for Stevens County. You can also search for providers in nearby larger towns like Colville, Chewelah, or Kettle Falls, which serve the Rice community. Asking for recommendations at local pharmacies or from your primary care provider in the area is also very effective.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Rice, WA region?
Given the rural nature of the Rice area, key factors include travel distance and the range of services offered. Look for an optometrist whose practice is within a reasonable drive from Rice and who offers comprehensive eye exams, manages common conditions like dry eye (prevalent in Eastern Washington's climate), and has a good optical shop on-site or strong relationships with labs to minimize return trips. Checking reviews from patients in similar rural communities can provide insight into their bedside manner and logistical efficiency.
Do optometrists near Rice, WA accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies by practice. Most optometry offices in Stevens County, including those serving Rice residents, typically accept major medical insurance (like Regence, Premera, Medicare) for health-related eye care and separate vision plans (like VSP or EyeMed) for routine exams and glasses. It's crucial to call the specific office ahead of time. Verify they are in-network for your plan and confirm what services are covered, as some plans have limited networks in rural areas like ours.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists in the Rice, WA area?
Optometrists serving the Rice community generally provide comprehensive eye exams for all ages, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the agricultural setting, look for practices experienced in treating eye injuries or irritations. Many also offer pre- and post-operative care for patients needing surgery, which would likely require a referral to a specialist in Spokane. Availability of advanced diagnostic technology may vary between local practices.
How far in advance do I need to book an appointment with an optometrist near Rice, WA?
Appointment lead times can vary. For a routine eye exam, it's common to schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for popular practitioners in smaller towns like Colville or Chewelah. For more urgent concerns (like a sudden eye injury or infection), most offices will try to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for established patients and may have slots reserved for emergencies. New patient appointments might require longer scheduling. It's advisable to plan ahead, particularly if you need to coordinate travel from Rice to a neighboring town.