Best Eye Doctors In Fort Walton Beach, FL
Why trust us?
VisionCenter is committed to connecting patients to the best local healthcare providers. We reviewed Fort Walton Beach Optometrists in Fort Walton Beach, Fort Walton Beach, and chose this list based on their:
- Qualifications and education
- Years of experience
- Reputation and resources
- Past customer experiences
We used AI technology to analyze Fort Walton Beach reviews from Google, Yelp, and Facebook to find patients' favorite surgeons in the area. Our team then went through and hand picked our list of the best Optometrists in Fort Walton Beach.
Eye Center South – Destin
151 Regions Way Building 1, Destin, FL 32541
Summary
The eye care center received positive feedback for its knowledgeable and personable doctors, organized appointment scheduling, and prompt service. However, some customers were dissatisfied with lengthy wait times and impersonal exam experiences.
Highlights
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Several reviewers mentioned that the staff at this eye care center were friendly and knowledgeable. This is important when seeking eye exams and care as it helps put patients at ease and ensures they receive accurate information and advice.
- Efficient and thorough exams: Many reviewers commented that the eye exams they received at this center were both efficient and thorough. This is essential for individuals seeking eye care, as it indicates that the center values the patient's time while also providing a comprehensive assessment of their eye health.
- Wide selection of eyewear: Some reviewers mentioned the wide selection of eyewear available at this center. Having a variety of options can be advantageous for individuals looking to find the perfect frames that suit their style and preferences.
Dr. Kristian Edlund
251 Mary Esther Blvd ste d, Mary Esther, FL 32569
Summary
This eye care center receives mostly positive reviews. Patients commend the kind, professional staff, including front desk and optical assistants. Dr. Edlund draws high praise for his personable, reassuring approach during exams. Many appreciate the early appointment options and frame selection. However, one patient expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of pricing details on their receipt. In general, reviewers report satisfying experiences and recommend this center.
Highlights
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Multiple reviews mention the kind and patient staff, making the experience comfortable and enjoyable.
- Thorough and professional eye exams: Several reviews highlight the thoroughness and professionalism of Dr. Edlund, ensuring a comprehensive eye exam and accurate prescriptions.
- Good value and affordable options: There are positive mentions of the cost being a good value and the availability of a variety of affordable glasses frames.
LensCrafters
251 Mary Esther Blvd Ste D, Mary Esther, FL 32569
Summary
At this LensCrafters, customers enjoyed professional, courteous service from staff like Noah and Ms. Karen. The store followed COVID-19 guidelines and had clean facilities. Customers had swift, precise eye exams and located quality frames and lenses. Staff including Cheryl offered outstanding customer service. Though some had pricing concerns or issues with certain optometrists, most customers had a positive experience overall and would recommend this location.
Highlights
- Professional and courteous staff: Multiple reviews mentioned the staff members, such as Noah, Ms Karen, Cheryl, and Donna, being professional, friendly, and patient during the eye exam and frame selection process.
- Excellent customer service: Several reviews praised the customer service at this LensCrafters store, highlighting the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff. Many customers felt supported in their decision-making and appreciated the no-pressure sales approach.
- COVID precautions: Customers felt safe in the store during the pandemic as both staff and customers were wearing masks. The store was also described as clean, further ensuring a safe and comfortable environment.
Eyeglass World
778 Beal Pkwy NW Suite 102, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Summary
The eye care center receives positive reviews for its excellent eye exams and patient care. Customers value the one-stop convenience and staff’s assistance with insurance and frame selection. Patients comment on the doctors’ professionalism, friendliness and thorough exams.
Highlights
- Excellent eye exam and care: Many customers mentioned that they had the best eye exam and care experience at this eye care center. The staff was described as friendly, thorough, and professional.
- Helpful and knowledgeable staff: Multiple reviews mentioned that the staff, particularly the office manager and eyeglass specialists, were helpful, attentive, and knowledgeable. They were praised for their assistance in finding the right frames, maximizing insurance benefits, and addressing financial needs.
- Friendly and thorough doctor: Some reviews specifically highlighted the friendliness and thoroughness of the eye doctor. Customers mentioned that the doctor took the time to explain vision problems and prescriptions, and had a good chairside manner.
Dr. Jennifer Goette
350 Racetrack Rd NW suite c, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Summary
Dr. Goette provides thorough eye exams and her friendly, helpful staff are appreciated. Though a couple patients felt rushed, most recommend her professional and courteous office.
Highlights
- Friendly and helpful staff - Many reviewers mentioned that the staff at this eye care center is pleasant, helpful, and professional. They are praised for their customer service and making patients feel comfortable.
- Knowledgeable and thorough eye exams - Several reviewers mentioned that the eye exams provided by Dr. Goette are thorough and accurate. Patients feel confident in her expertise and trust her recommendations.
- Good selection of glasses at affordable prices - Reviewers mentioned that the eye care center carries a great variety of styles and offers reasonable prices for glasses, especially for those without insurance.
Clarkson Eyecare
417A Racetrack Rd NW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Summary
Patients consistently praise their positive experiences at this eye care center. They describe feeling welcomed and listened to during appointments with Dr. Doolin, who provides thorough exams and clear explanations. His friendly, professional staff assist knowledgeably with glasses and contacts. Patients recommend this office for its excellent, patient-focused care.
Highlights
- Dr. Doolin and his staff are highly praised for providing thorough and exceptional eye exams.
- The entire staff is friendly, caring, and takes the time to explain everything clearly.
- Patients appreciate the approachable and passionate demeanor of Dr. Doolin, as well as the attentive and professional service provided by the staff.
Bayside Vision Center/Annette Brabham, OD, PA
111 N John Sims Pkwy, Valparaiso, FL 32580
Summary
Dr. Brabham provides attentive and proactive eye care at Bayside Vision Center. Patients commend her thorough examinations, kind manner, and patience in answering questions. The friendly, professional staff and COVID safety measures also earn praise. Patients feel they receive quality expertise from Dr. Brabham and her team.
Highlights
- Thorough and proactive care: Dr. Brabham is known for providing excellent and thorough care, including eye exams, eye injuries, and glaucoma management.
- Friendly and courteous staff: The staff at this eye care center are described as friendly, courteous, and professional. Patients feel comfortable and not rushed during their appointments.
- COVID-19 safety measures: The center takes COVID-19 precautions seriously, with staff wearing masks and following safety guidelines, providing a safe environment for eye exams during the pandemic.
The Vision Hub at Fort Walton Beach
36 Eglin Pkwy NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Summary
Most customers report this eye care center provides friendly, efficient service with same-day glasses repair and replacement. They accommodate special needs and offer varied frames. However, one customer experienced unprofessional staff and high retail markups.
Highlights
- Fast and friendly service: Customers mentioned that they were helped quickly and received friendly assistance from the staff, including fixing their frames and ordering new contacts.
- Accepts vision insurance: The eye care center accepts various vision insurance plans, which resulted in lower prices for customers than they expected.
- Accommodating and patient: The staff showed patience and care, particularly when dealing with special needs children and providing eye exams for toddlers. They were also willing to reschedule appointments without charging a fee.
Family Eyecare: Fregger Michael A OD
17 Racetrack Rd NW Ste A, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Summary
The eye care center receives consistent praise for its friendly staff and Dr. Fregger’s professionalism. Long-term patients cite thorough exams and quality vision services as reasons they continue to recommend the practice for eye care, glasses, and contacts.
Highlights
- Friendly and patient staff: The staff at this eye care center are described as friendly, helpful, and patient, making it a comfortable and welcoming environment, especially for those who have never had an eye exam before.
- Thorough and knowledgeable doctor: Dr. Fregger is praised for being thorough, professional, and knowledgeable. Patients feel confident in his expertise and appreciate his ability to explain eye care and address any concerns.
- Wide selection of frames: The eye care center offers a great selection of frames, according to multiple reviews. This allows patients to find the perfect eyeglasses that suit their preferences and style.
Shalimar Eye Care
10 Old Ferry Rd, Shalimar, FL 32579
Summary
Shalimar Eye Care provides consistent quality care with friendly staff, prompt service, and reasonable pricing. Patients comment on the knowledgeable and attentive service from doctors like Dr. Purdy, who take time to put them at ease. Reviews highlight the professionalism and excellent patient care that make Shalimar Eye Care a quality choice.
Highlights
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Multiple reviews mention the friendly and helpful staff, with specific praise for Dr. Purdy. They are described as professional, courteous, and knowledgeable, making patients feel at ease.
- Efficient and prompt service: Reviews highlight the fast service and minimal waiting time at this eye care center. Patients appreciate the quick, easy, and painless experience, with minimal paperwork.
- Excellent eye care and eye exams: Several reviews mention the detailed and informative eye exams performed by Dr. Purdy and Dr. Peeterse. Patients feel well-informed about their eye health and vision, and appreciate the careful attention given during the exams.
- No pressure to purchase: Multiple reviews mention that there is no pressure to buy anything at this eye care center, creating a comfortable and stress-free environment for patients.
Choosing the Right Eye Care Provider
The kind of eye doctor you should visit depends on your issues. You may need an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or both.
Optometrists provide primary eye care, including vision tests and prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses. You may also visit an optometrist for eye infections or issues that don’t require surgery.
For more complicated issues, your optometrist can refer you to an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care. They can treat a broader range of medical conditions.
When choosing an eye care clinic, look for a place that can address your specific needs. You may ask your friends and family for recommendations. Reading reviews online and checking with your insurance company can also help you find the right provider.
Understanding Eye Conditions and Their Treatment
The most common eye problems include refractive errors, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts. Symptoms of these eye conditions include blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain.
Once you experience severe pain in your eye, it’s important to visit an eye doctor immediately. Other symptoms, such as fever and eye discharge, may indicate a more severe infection. This is why seeking medical attention is essential if you experience these symptoms.
Treatment for eye conditions will vary depending on your symptoms. Eye doctors sometimes collaborate with other specialists to determine the best course of action.
Maintaining Your Vision Health
Proper care and prevention are the best ways to maintain your vision health. Here are some tips on how to ensure that your eyes stay in the best condition possible:
- Protective eyewear. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection outdoors or safety goggles when working with tools can prevent eye damage.
- Proper nutrition. Eating foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E can help you receive the proper nutrients to protect your eyes. Getting enough sleep and limiting alcohol consumption is also part of proper nutrition for eye care.
- Regular breaks from screens. Follow the 20-20-20 rule when working with screens. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Manage chronic conditions. Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension can also affect your eye health. Managing them can help decrease their effects on your eyes.
- Regular eye exams. Visiting your eye doctor regularly can help detect eye problems early on. If needed, they can provide proper treatment immediately to prevent further complications.
Eye Care Insurance and Managing Costs
Insurance companies vary in terms of coverage when it comes to eye care. Vision insurance is usually separate from general health insurance.
You can save money and avoid surprises by consulting your insurance provider regarding coverage. Ask about your coverage for eye examinations, contact lenses or glasses, and other treatments.
If you don’t have insurance, these financing options are available:
- Payment plans
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
- National grants
Vision Health Trends in Florida
- Examining vision health as one ages reveals In 2018, a higher percentage of people aged 65 and older in Florida reported being blind or having difficulty seeing compared to those aged 40-64. in Florida, signaling the need for proactive eye care.
Risk Factors Impacting Vision in Florida
- A family history of eye issues, diabetes, and alcoholism can all influence vision health in Florida.
- The In Florida in 2018, people with diabetes had more than twice the risk of vision problems compared to the overall population, with 13.6% of those with diabetes experiencing blindness or difficulty seeing compared to 6.06% of the general population. and In Florida in 2018, the percentage of people who were blind or had difficulty seeing was higher among those who smoked tobacco (8.89%) compared to the overall population (6.06%), indicating that smoking increases the risk of vision problems by approximately 2.83%. statistics underscore the impact of these factors on vision health.
Vision Impairment Statistics in Florida
- In Florida, 6.06% of individuals report significant vision impairment, with specific age groups reporting varying degrees of difficulty.
Age-Specific Vision Challenges in Florida
- Amongst those aged 18 to 39, 4% experience vision difficulties.
- The percentage increases to 6.57% in the 40-64 age range.
- Seniors over 65 in Florida face even higher rates at 7.92%.
Addressing Vision Health Beyond Age in Florida
- Other factors such as diabetes and smoking contribute to vision impairment in Florida.
- 13.6% of those with diabetes and 8.89% of smokers report difficulty seeing.
Children's Vision Health in Florida
- Early vision care is crucial, with 67.48% of children in Florida having had their vision tested.
- Of those, 1.94% report vision problems, emphasizing the need for early detection and care.
Proactive Vision Health Measures in Florida
- Regular eye exams and UV protection are essential, especially considering the 6.06% of the population with vision impairment.
- A healthy diet, smoking cessation, and regular breaks from screens contribute to better vision health, which can help mitigate the statistics on vision impairment in Florida.
Summary
Proper vision care is crucial for people of all ages. Your treatment will vary depending on your condition and issues. Finding the right eye care provider can help you receive the necessary treatment and care.
Sources:
- "Common Eye Disorders and Diseases." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- “Finding an Eye Doctor | National Eye Institute.” National Eye Institute.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. FastStats - Health Insurance Coverage.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020.
- "Healthy Vision Tips." National Eye Institute.
- “Optometry.” UC Davis, 2017.