Reasons to Visit an Independent Optical Center
Whether you need a yearly eye exam, a new pair of designer eyeglasses, a contact lens fitting, or treatment for an eye condition, you need the right eye care professional to satisfy your needs. Many people are attracted to the ease of visiting a chain store at the local mall, in between shopping for shoes and clothes. However, is this the best option, or is it better to visit a private eye care clinic?
There are numerous benefits to choosing an independent optometry practice. But don’t take our word for it! Instead, take a look at the following reasons:
1. Personalized Relationship
Local, independent eye care specialists provide more personalized service. They will invest energy and time into building a trusting relationship with you, in the same way that your family physician does. Every time you visit, you’ll see the same optometrist – as opposed to whomever happens to be on shift when you stop by an optical chain store. Often, a few generations of one family will receive eye care from the same eye care clinic. In our high-tech, fast paced society, this type of friendly familiarity is very reassuring!
2. Optimal Eye Health
Private optometrists are dedicated to providing the best vision care possible. Their priority is your vision and eye health, and not selling as many eyeglasses as possible. To this end, an independent optometry office will be equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic technology and the eye doctor will keep current with the latest developments.
You may receive an immediate vision test at the nearby optical chain store, yet if they detect any problems, you will require the care of an expert eye care professional. Remember, eye care consists of much more than just vision testing and fittings for contact lenses. An independent optometrist can diagnose and manage complications such as glaucoma and cataracts, as well as eye infection.
3. Experienced Optical Services
Corporate clinics and chain stores sell eyewear and share the retail space with an eye doctor who performs eye exams. In a local, independent optometry practice, the eye doctor is integral to the whole business. Therefore, a private health care professional is more dedicated to providing ultimate care for your vision and ocular health. Top customer service and a personal warranty is guaranteed.
Unskilled salespeople generally sell eyeglasses in the chain stores, but local eye care clinics are staffed with opticians who are trained in eye health and vision correction. They will help you select the most flattering frames, as well as provide advice on proper eye care. If you have any concerns about your eyesight with particular eyeglasses, they are knowledgeable and experienced. At a large corporate retailer, your experience will generally consist of picking frames from the display shelf and placing your order.
4. Value for the Cost
You get what you pay for. While chain stores may advertise sales and promotions, their low prices generally give you low quality eyewear. Also, these promos cannot usually be combined with your insurance plan. In comparison, a local private optical practice will offer competitive prices for top quality frames and lenses, and the staff will verify maximum coverage with your vision insurance plan.
5. Eyewear Variety
Boutique optical stores generally offer a wider range of high-quality eyeglasses, as there are no corporate demands to consider. You’ll be able to browse an array of cool styles and designer brands – not just common, mass-produced frames. A private optometrist is free to stock the store with whatever is best for the patient! If you require specialty eyewear, frames for children, or you have unique fashion taste, an independent eye care center is more likely to fit you with the ideal, customized eyewear.
6. Neighborhood Location & Hours
Independent eye care centers are often located near your home or work, and not in the middle of a mall. This makes it a snap to replenish your contact lens supply on the way home, or stop by when you an adjustment to your eyeglasses. A journey through the shopping mall can be much more time-consuming. In addition, private optometry practices often have extended hours for appointments to accommodate your work schedule.