Best Ophthalmologists in Columbia
Updated December 24, 2024
Introduction to Ophthalmology in Columbia, Missouri
Overview of ophthalmology and its importance for eye health
Ophthalmology is a specialized branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye disorders.
Regular eye examinations and proper eye care are essential for maintaining good vision and overall health.
Ophthalmologists play a key role in detecting early signs of eye diseases and providing appropriate interventions.
The role of ophthalmologists in diagnosing and treating eye conditions
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors with extensive training in eye care and surgical procedures.
They can diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions, from common refractive errors to complex eye diseases.
Ophthalmologists perform various procedures, including cataract surgery, corneal transplants, and laser eye treatments.
Brief introduction to the ophthalmology landscape in Columbia
Columbia, Missouri, offers a diverse selection of highly qualified ophthalmologists.
The city is home to several eye care centers and clinics, providing comprehensive eye care services to residents.
Many ophthalmologists in Columbia are board-certified and specialize in various aspects of eye care, ensuring patients have access to expert treatment for their specific needs.
What's the fastest way to connect to ophthalmologists?
Our clinically-backed AI will ask you questions and provide an answer specific to your unique health situation.
List of Ophthalmologists in Columbia
RM
Dr. Ryan Mercer
5.0
Columbia, MO
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Ophthalmology
Medical University of South Carolina (Medical School)
English
Ophthalmology
Cornea & External Diseases
American Board of Ophthalmology
Boston University School of Med/Boston Medical Center (Medical School)
Harvard Univeristy (Fellowship Hospital, 1995)
University of South Carolina (Residency Hospital, 1994)
St Elizabeths Medical Center (Internship Hospital, 1990)
Tufts Univerisity School Of Med (Internship Hospital, 1990)
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine (Medical School, 1989)
Dartmouth College (Undergraduate School, 1983)
English
Ophthalmology
Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
Cataract Surgery
American Board of Ophthalmology
Mason Eye Institute (Residency Hospital, 2006)
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine (Internship Hospital, 2003)
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine (Medical School, 2002)
University of Arkansas (Undergraduate School, 1997)
English
Ophthalmology
Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
Anterior Segment Surgery
Cataract Surgery
Cornea & Refractive Surgery
Ophthalmic Surgery
American Board of Ophthalmology
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine (Internship Hospital, 1985)
University of Washington (Medical School, 1984)
University of Washington School of Medicine (Medical School, 1984)
Nih Clinical Center (Fellowship Hospital, 1984)
BYU (Undergraduate School, 1980)
English
German
Indonesian
Korean
Russian
Ophthalmology
Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
Anterior Segment Surgery
Cataract Surgery
Cornea & External Diseases
Cornea & Refractive Surgery
Ophthalmic Surgery
Cornea & Contact Management
Oculoplastic Surgery
American Board of Ophthalmology
University of California Davis Medical Center (Fellowship Hospital, 1996)
University of Minnesota (Residency Hospital, 1994)
HENNEPIN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER (Internship Hospital, 1991)
Duke University School of Medicine (Medical School, 1990)
English
Ophthalmology
Vitreoretinal Disease & Surgery
American Board of Ophthalmology
University of Oklahoma Health Science Center (Residency Hospital)
University of Missouri Kc Truman Medical Center (Medical School)
University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine (Undergraduate School)
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (Fellowship Hospital, 2006)
St Vincent's Hospital (Internship Hospital, 2002)
English
Ophthalmology
JS
Dr. Jeffrey Stetler
N/A
Columbia, MO
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Ophthalmology
English
Ophthalmology
Choosing an Ophthalmologist in Columbia
Factors to consider when selecting an eye doctor
Board certification
- American Board of Ophthalmology certification
- American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology & Otolaryngology certification
Experience and specializations
- Years in practice
- Subspecialties such as cornea, retina, or glaucoma
- Advanced procedures offered
Patient reviews and ratings
- Star ratings on healthcare platforms
- Number of patient reviews
- Qualitative feedback from patients
Education and training
- Medical school attended
- Residency and fellowship programs completed
- Ongoing professional development
Language capabilities
- Availability of multilingual doctors
- Language options for diverse patient populations
Resources for finding ophthalmologists in Columbia
Online directories and review sites
- Healthgrades
- Other reputable healthcare review platforms
Professional associations
- American Academy of Ophthalmology physician finder
- Missouri Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
Local healthcare networks
- University of Missouri Health Care
- Boone Hospital Center
Referrals from primary care physicians
- Importance of coordinated care
- Benefits of physician networks
Top-Rated Ophthalmologists in Columbia
Dr. Dean Hainsworth
Education and Certification
- University of Kentucky Medical School (1990)
- Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Patient Rating
- 5.0 stars based on 4 reviews
Contact Information
- Phone: (573) 884-3937
Dr. Maggie Cardonell
Certification
- Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Patient Rating
- 5.0 stars based on 4 reviews
Contact Information
- Phone: (573) 882-8920
Dr. Sandra Johnson
Education and Certification
- Boston University School of Medicine (1989)
- Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Specializations
- Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
- Cataract Surgery
Patient Rating
- 4.8 stars based on 42 reviews
Contact Information
- Phone: (573) 884-3937
Dr. Timothy McGarity
Education and Certification
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine (2002)
- Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Specializations
- Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
- Cataract Surgery
- Cornea & Refractive Surgery
Patient Rating
- 4.7 stars based on 115 reviews
Contact Information
- Phone: (573) 441-7070
Dr. John Jarstad
Education and Certification
- University of Washington School of Medicine (1984)
- Board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology
Specializations
- Anterior Segment Ophthalmology
- Cataract Surgery
- Cornea & External Diseases
Patient Rating
- 4.1 stars based on 17 reviews
Languages
- English, German, Indonesian, Korean, Russian
Contact Information
- Phone: (813) 974-4864
Additional Considerations for Choosing an Ophthalmologist
Importance of regular eye exams
Recommended frequency of eye exams
- For adults: Every 1-2 years
- For children: As recommended by pediatrician
Early detection of eye conditions
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
Understanding different eye conditions and treatments
Common eye conditions in Columbia
- Based on specializations of top-rated doctors
Advanced treatments available
- Cataract surgery
- Cornea & refractive surgery
- Anterior segment procedures
Questions to ask during your first appointment
About the doctor's experience
- Years in practice
- Number of similar procedures performed
About the recommended treatment
- Alternatives
- Risks and benefits
- Recovery time
About follow-up care
- Post-procedure appointments
- Long-term management plan
Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs
Verifying insurance acceptance
- Contacting the doctor's office
- Checking with insurance provider
Understanding potential additional costs
- Prescription eyewear
- Specialized treatments not covered by insurance