Best Eye Doctors In Clearwater, FL
Why trust us?
VisionCenter is committed to connecting patients to the best local healthcare providers. We reviewed Clearwater Optometrists in Clearwater, Clearwater, 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater.
The Eye Institute Of West Florida
1225 W Bay Dr, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
Patients consistently described the eye doctors as thorough and professional, with Drs. LaPlume, Cope, and Sims receiving particular mention. The detailed explanations during exams left many feeling well-informed. The friendly, kind staff created a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights
- Friendly and Thorough Eye Exams: Multiple reviews mention that the doctors and staff at the eye care center are friendly, thorough, and take the time to explain everything during the eye exam. Patients feel comfortable and well-informed about their eye health.
- Professional and Knowledgeable Staff: Reviewers appreciate the professionalism and knowledge of the doctors and technicians at the clinic. They mention that the staff is attentive, answers all their questions, and provides detailed information about their eye condition and future care.
- Personalized Care and Attention: Several reviews mention that the eye care center provides personalized care and attention to each patient. The staff is described as caring and concerned not only about their patients' eyes but also about their overall well-being. Patients feel valued and appreciated during their visits.
- Note: The third pro was derived from the reviews despite the negative experiences mentioned by some individuals. It is important to evaluate individual feedback before making a decision.)
St. Michael’s Eye and Laser Institute
1030 W Bay Dr #200b, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
St. Michael’s Eye Institute has received favorable feedback regarding their professional, efficient, and thorough eye exams. Customers often compliment the friendly, knowledgeable staff and quality care from the doctors. However, some issues were noted with billing and appointment wait times. They are still recommended for comprehensive eye care.
Highlights
- Same-day appointments: Customers appreciate being able to make an appointment on the same day they needed an eye exam, indicating convenient and prompt service.
- Professional and courteous staff: Multiple reviews mention the professionalism and courtesy of the office staff, indicating a positive and pleasant customer service experience.
- Thorough and efficient exams: Several reviews mention the thoroughness and efficiency of the eye exams, indicating that customers felt well taken care of and received a comprehensive assessment of their eye health.
Eye Site of Tampa Bay
2560 Gulf to Bay Blvd Suite 100, Clearwater, FL 33765
Summary
The center receives mostly glowing reviews for the professional, thorough care provided by the staff and doctors. Patients describe the comprehensive, advanced eye exams and positive outcomes. However, one review cites disappointments with the prescription process and customer service. On the whole, the overwhelmingly positive feedback indicates this is a well-regarded, recommended eye care center.
Highlights
- The staff at Eye Site of Tampa Bay is described as professional, thorough, and attentive, providing a high level of attention and detail during eye exams.
- The eye care center offers advanced technology and cutting-edge treatments, such as cataract surgery and optic implants, leading to excellent patient outcomes and improved vision.
- Patients appreciate the knowledge, thoroughness, and professionalism of the doctors at the practice, particularly Dr. Lusk and Dr. Boyce, who provide accurate diagnoses and take the time to explain exam findings and treatment options.
Dr. John L. Meyers & Associates
23902 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33765
Summary
Dr. Meyers and Associates provide friendly, professional service and quality, affordable eye care. The knowledgeable doctors ensure thorough exams and informative discussions in a timely manner. Patients recommend this clean, calm facility.
Highlights
- Staff are informative, kind, and make the eye exam process quick and easy.
- The eye exam is affordable compared to other places, especially for those without vision insurance.
- The facility is clean and the staff are friendly, providing a pleasant experience for patients.
Dr. Steven Cohen, MD
579 S Duncan Ave, Clearwater, FL 33756
Summary
Dr. Cohen provides excellent eye care with a personal touch. His friendly expertise reassures patients while he clearly explains procedures. His thoughtful, skilled care earns confidence.
Highlights
- Exceptional and personable doctor: Dr. Cohen is highly regarded by patients for his exceptional bedside manner and professionalism. He is described as personable, easy to understand, and takes the time to explain procedures, making patients feel well-cared for.
- Knowledgeable and experienced staff: The entire staff, including the technicians and receptionists, are praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness. They are described as being thorough, informative, and taking all necessary precautions such as sanitizing equipment, creating a safe and comfortable environment for patients.
- Excellent surgical outcomes: Dr. Cohen is highly recommended for his skill as a retina specialist. Patients have reported successful surgeries and quicker-than-anticipated recoveries, indicating his impressive credentials and expertise in the field.
Melinda L. Gruszka, OD
1225 W Bay Dr STE G, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
The Eye Institute of West Florida provides exceptional eye care services under Dr. Gruszka’s expertise. Patients commend the professionalism and efficiency of the staff. Dr. Gruszka herself draws praise for her thorough exams, ability to address individual eye issues, and comprehensive eye treatments. Her exceptional care makes this a highly recommended and reputable eye care provider.
Highlights
- Professional and friendly staff: Multiple reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the front office staff, technicians, and Dr. Gruszka. They create a pleasant and comfortable experience for patients.
- Thorough and knowledgeable eye exams: Customers are highly satisfied with the thoroughness of the eye exams conducted by Dr. Gruszka. She is described as professional, caring, and having a vast knowledge about eye health. Customers appreciate the clear communication and explanations about their eye conditions.
- Efficient and timely appointments: Several reviews mention that appointments were on time and the care received was efficient. Customers appreciate not feeling rushed and receiving attention and care from the staff.
Shettle Vision
670 Clearwater Largo Rd A, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
Shettle Vision provides friendly, helpful service and thorough eye exams by Dr. Shettle. Customers appreciate the fashionable frame selection and staff assistance in finding the perfect pair. Many praise the exceptional customer service, caring team, and quality eye care.
Highlights
- Wide selection of designer frames: Customers appreciate the great selection of frames, including brands like Maui Jim and Gucci, allowing them to find the perfect eyewear.
- Friendly and attentive staff: Multiple reviews mention the friendly and helpful staff, who provide top-notch customer service and make patients feel comfortable throughout their visit.
- Thorough and efficient eye exams: Patients are impressed by the thoroughness of the eye exams and the use of newer technologies that improve the overall experience, such as avoiding the discomfort of having air blown into their eyes.
Innovative EyeCARE
800 E Bay Dr G, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
The majority of reviews for this eye care center laud Dr. Jeffrey Laplume as thorough, patient, and professional. Patients express confidence in his expertise and bedside manner. However, one review cites misdiagnosis and discourteous conduct by Dr. Laplume. In general, the office staff receives praise for friendliness and efficiency.
Highlights
- Dr. Jeffrey Laplume is highly recommended and praised by multiple reviewers for his thoroughness, patience, and professionalism during eye exams.
- The office staff is described as pleasant and efficient, providing a quick and personable experience for patients.
- Dr. Laplume has a great sense of humor, making visits enjoyable and helping patients feel comfortable during the eye exam process.
Douglas G. Johnson, OD
1225 W Bay Dr j, Largo, FL 33770
Summary
Dr. Johnson receives consistently positive feedback for his attentive and detailed eye exams. Patients describe feeling well-informed and at ease with his patient manner. While reviews of office staff are more mixed, Dr. Johnson himself is highly recommended for his caring approach.
Highlights
- Dr. Johnson is highly recommended for his caring and thorough eye exams. He takes the time to answer questions and explain the process well.
- The staff at the eye care center are friendly, accommodating, and professional.
- Patients appreciate Dr. Johnson's ability to explain eye conditions in a way that is easy to understand and his willingness to take extra time to ensure a better understanding of vision issues.
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.