Why did you decide to go into optometry? I became interested in Optometry when I was young because of my own vision problems. My Grandpa was an Optometrist and I spent time with him which was a big influence on me.
What do you like best about being an eye doctor? Making a difference in people's lives helping them to see better.
What is the most challenging aspect of owning an independent optometry practice? Having to be both a businessman as well as an Optometrist.
What changes have you seen to patient care and the instruments used to examine and screen eyes? Optometry has taken on a greater role in providing more medical care than ever before. Technology has grown to aid us in providing better healthcare. Retinal scanning literally lets us see patients eyes in much more detail than ever before. We want to diagnose any problems a patient might have as early as possible.
How has Optometry changed since you became a doctor? Technology with both has made big advances. Contact and spectacle lenses have gone through landmark improvements during my career. Better vision, greater flexibility and healthier options are more available than were previously.
What would you like people to know about their eyes? Vision is not always a good indicator of the health of the eye. Many problems can be present without the patient being aware of it.
What would you like people to know about independent optometry practices? Independent eye care providers have more of a vested interest in the patient's vision and ocular health than big box retailers. We have more of a personal relationship with our patients. This translates into the kind of care we provide.
What do you wish more patients would do? Be more aware of their need for regular yearly exams. Or their eye health rather than just for their vision. Not all eye problems hurt. The eye is a living organ that does more than just see.
Many people believe contacts and glasses are expensive - what do you have to say about that? There is a wide array of quality. Think about the quality of vehicles. If you had the opportunity to choose between a Lexus and a Hyundai, wouldn't you choose the Lexus. Better quality, and therefore more expensive lenses have more attention to accuracy in how lenses are made than cheaper ones. Not as much effort goes into the cheaper product. You get what you pay for. I feel that patients should be more concerned about the product that is best for them rather than purchasing the cheapest possible.
What sets Kramer Family Eyecare and your approach to vision care apart from others? We care. We spend more time with our patients, do more tests, find out about our patients' visual needs. We listen to the patient. And we strive to develop a personal relationship with them-they aren't just a number,
How can people find out more about your practice? Probably the best way is for them to visit our website atwww.KramerFamilyEyecare.com How can someone have you examine their eyes? I always welcome the opportunity to assist new patients. The best way to set up an appointment is to call my office - 573-449-4188 or schedule online at www.KramerFamilyEyecare.com