Question 1

Do you accept walk-ins, or do I need an appointment?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend booking an appointment so we can dedicate the right time to your exam. Walk-ins are accepted when openings are available — call your nearest location to check same-day availability.

Question 2

How long does a comprehensive eye exam take?

Accepted Answer

Most comprehensive eye exams take 30 to 45 minutes. Specialty appointments — contact lens fittings, diabetic eye exams, or post-cataract evaluations — may take longer. We will give you an accurate time estimate when you schedule.

Question 3

Can I schedule online?

Accepted Answer

We currently schedule by phone. Call your nearest location during business hours and we will get you in quickly. Online booking is on our roadmap.

Question 4

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Please give us at least 24 hours notice if possible — it lets us offer your slot to another patient who needs it. There is no fee for late cancellations, but please call ahead.

Question 5

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a photo ID, your vision insurance card (and medical insurance if you have any chronic conditions affecting your eyes), your current glasses or contact lenses, and a list of medications. If you have prior records or prescriptions, those help too.

Question 6

What insurance plans do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept most major vision insurance plans, including VSP, EyeMed, Davis Vision, Spectera, and Medicare. Coverage varies by location and plan — please call ahead so we can verify your benefits before your visit.

Question 7

What if I do not have vision insurance?

Accepted Answer

No problem. We offer transparent self-pay pricing for comprehensive exams and contact lens fittings. Call your nearest location and we will give you exact pricing before you book.

Question 8

Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

We accept Medicare for medically necessary eye care (including diabetic eye exams and screening for eye disease). Medicaid acceptance varies by state and plan — please call to confirm your specific coverage.

Question 9

Will my exam be covered if I have diabetes?

Accepted Answer

Annual diabetic eye exams are covered by most medical insurance plans (including Medicare) as a preventive benefit. We will run your medical insurance for the diabetic exam component, even if you also have vision insurance.

Question 10

What is tele-optometry, and how is it different from a regular eye exam?

Accepted Answer

Tele-optometry uses advanced digital diagnostic equipment with a remote, board-certified optometrist who reviews your results in real time. You still get a complete, professional examination — and because we leverage modern technology, exams are typically more efficient than traditional in-person visits.

Question 11

Is the optometrist actually licensed and overseeing my exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every exam is performed under the direct supervision of a board-certified optometrist licensed to practice in your state. The technology connects you with the doctor in real time during your exam.

Question 12

Is tele-optometry as accurate as an in-person eye exam?

Accepted Answer

For comprehensive vision exams and most eye health screenings, yes. Studies have shown tele-optometry produces equivalent results to traditional in-person exams. For complex cases that need hands-on diagnosis, we may refer you for a specialist visit.

Question 13

Can I get a glasses or contact lens prescription from a tele-optometry exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes. By federal law, you receive a written copy of your prescription and can fill it anywhere. The optical center inside the store where we are located is convenient, but it is not a requirement.

Question 14

How often should I get an eye exam?

Accepted Answer

For adults with no risk factors, every two years is typical. Annually is recommended for children, adults over 60, contact lens wearers, and anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Question 15

Do you see children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide eye exams for children and recommend a first comprehensive exam by age 6, with annual exams thereafter. Pediatric vision health is critical for school performance, so do not wait for symptoms.

Question 16

My eyes feel fine — do I really need an exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many sight-threatening conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and early macular degeneration develop without any symptoms. Routine exams catch them while they are still highly treatable.

Question 17

Can you help with dry eyes or eye strain from screens?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Dry eye and digital eye strain are among the most common reasons patients see us. We have multiple treatment options once we identify the underlying cause.

Question 18

I have diabetes — when should I get my eyes checked?

Accepted Answer

Every diabetic patient should have a dilated eye exam at least once per year, even if their vision feels fine. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults and almost always begins without symptoms.

Question 19

Can I use my eye exam prescription at any glasses or contact lens retailer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. By federal law, you receive a written copy of your glasses and contact lens prescriptions, and you can fill them anywhere. The optical center inside the store where we are located is convenient, but it is not a requirement.

Question 20

How long is my prescription valid?

Accepted Answer

Glasses prescriptions are typically valid for 1–2 years; contact lens prescriptions for 1 year. After that, federal regulations require a new exam to verify your prescription is still accurate and that your eyes remain healthy.

Question 21

Do you offer same-day glasses?

Accepted Answer

The optical centers we are located in (Walmart Vision Center / Sam's Club Optical) often offer same-day or next-day glasses for in-stock prescriptions. Specialty lenses may take longer.

Eye Doctor in St Joseph, Missouri

Address

Phone

Hours

Services Available at Our St Joseph Location

How to Find Us in St Joseph

Service Area

Common Questions from St Joseph Patients

Other Locations

Post Falls, Idaho

Miles City, Montana

Ready to schedule your eye exam in St Joseph?