5 Ways to Find the Right Optometrist.
Finding an optometrist can be pretty tricky, especially if this will be your first visit. Considering the price of traditional prescription eyeglasses, you want to make sure you find someone that will stand behind their prescription and if there is a problem or a mistake along the process will help sort it all out. Of course, there is Yelp, but I’ve taken the advice of a random 200 people they gave 5 stars; but I got the 1 or 2-star experience!
When it comes to my eyes I just don’t like to take chances. Once I find the right person I stick to them for a good while. This way I get the continuity of service and in time I get great prices as a reward for my loyalty!
Of course, you can go to your eye insurance provider and pick random eye care professionals in your area.
Quick Ideas on How to Research for An Optometrist
- Talk to your friends and family, they may have an optometrist or even an ophthalmologist that they just love!
- Get a recommendation from your primary physician or paediatrician if you have one; especially if you like your doctor you may find someone with similar style and values.
- You can also look online at some of the professional organizations like American Board of Optometry, American Associations of Optometrists, Association of ophthalmologists and our directory for finding an Eye Doctor. The only problem is that this won’t be a personal recommendation (In which case, you should really take a look into 5 Questions to ask Your Optometrist)
- Look in your neighbourhood, find a shape and walk in, take a look around. Don’t be shy ask about the prices…how hard is it to get an appointment? ( I would say the harder the higher the chance they have something good to offer) If you spot someone coming out have a chat with them. Or, get a coffee close by, when a customer comes out, gently walk up and ask for their opinion. I think you will find that most are forthcoming and willing to tell you how it is.
- Lastly, you can also call your favorite hospital in your area and ask for the ophthalmology department and get referrals; but again this lacks the personal aspect.
Whichever way works for you please remember that you can visit the office/store before you make an appointment and just get a feel for the staff and even the Optometrist if available. If you have some questions maybe you can ask him.
They usually have glasses for sale so you can easily browse and see if you like the cleanliness, the attitude of the people and the style before you commit to an appointment.
Once you have seen your eye doctor you can make your own assessment and decide if he/she is for keeps.
