Business Details
41 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Omaha Optometry Practice
As a trusted optometry practice in Omaha, Nebraska, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional eye care for nearly four decades. Our team of experienced doctors combines personalized service with cutting-edge technology to deliver comprehensive vision solutions for patients of all ages. With over 100 years of collective expertise in optometry, we prioritize preventative care while utilizing advanced diagnostic tools like Optomap and OCT machines to detect systemic diseases through ocular health.Our mission focuses on building long-term relationships with patients through transparent communication about their ocular conditions and vision needs, while maintaining a welcoming environment that makes every visitor feel like family. From routine eye exams to specialized treatments for conditions like BVD and keratoconus, we remain committed to advancing community eye health through both clinical excellence and educational initiatives like our infant vision programs.
Services
Eye Exams
Contact Lenses
Glasses
Disease Management
Binocular Vision
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- Our doctors have over 100 years of combined optometry experience
- We utilize advanced diagnostic technology including OCT machines
- We provide personalized care in a family-oriented environment
- Our team thoroughly explains eye health and vision needs
- Official eye care provider for Creighton University Athletics
Associations and certifications
- Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO)
What people say
Top notch staff
Patient explanations
Prompt service
Expertise and respect
No rush atmosphere
Services
Eye Exams
We provide comprehensive eye exams for patients of all ages, using advanced diagnostic technology to assess vision and detect eye diseases. Our exams include retinal imaging and ocular health evaluations. The process also identifies systemic health issues through eye analysis, with personalized recommendations for vision correction or treatment plans.
Contact Lenses
Our practice offers complete contact lens fitting services, including specialty lenses for keratoconus and myopia management. We provide education on proper lens care and maintenance. Patients receive professional guidance to find the most comfortable and effective contact lens options tailored to their specific vision needs.
Disease Management
We diagnose and manage ocular diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy using advanced diagnostic equipment. Our approach includes regular monitoring and personalized treatment strategies. We also offer co-management for surgical cases and collaborate with specialists for comprehensive patient care.
Binocular Vision
Specialized treatment for Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) is available through our practice. This includes diagnostic testing and customized treatment plans for patients experiencing symptoms like headaches, blurry vision, and difficulty focusing. We offer specialized eyewear and therapeutic interventions to improve visual coordination.
Pediatric Eye Care
Our team provides comprehensive eye care for children through two early intervention programs: InfantSEE for babies aged 6-12 months and See to Learn for 3-year-olds. These services ensure early detection of vision problems that could impact development and learning readiness.
People
Dr. Heidi Schmidt
Optometrist
Fellow of American Academy of Optometry with expertise in ocular disease. Graduated from New England College of Optometry and completed residency at VA Boston Healthcare System. Active in local optometric associations.
Dr. Tammy Richert
Optometrist
Experienced optometrist with extensive clinical background across multiple states. Graduated from Southern College of Optometry. Active member of Nebraska Optometric Association with special interest in family eye care.
Dr. Jennifer Lichtenberg
Optometrist
Summa Cum Laude graduate from University of Nebraska at Omaha. Doctorate from Indiana University School of Optometry with Highest Honors. Clinical instructor at Creighton University School of Medicine and member of athletic medical staff.
Dr. John Gradowski
Optometrist
Over 40 years of local practice experience. Graduate of Creighton University and Southern College of Optometry. Longtime clinical instructor at Creighton University and advisor for cutting-edge eye care technology development.
Cassi M.
Practice Manager
Experienced healthcare administrator with over 15 years at Eye Care West. Oversees day-to-day operations while maintaining patient-centered service standards that align with our family-focused mission.
Questions
What services do you offer beyond basic eye exams?
We provide comprehensive services including disease management, specialty contact lens fitting, binocular vision assessment, and advanced diagnostic imaging for systemic health screening.
Do you accept my vision insurance?
We are in-network providers for VSP and EyeMed Vision plans. For medical insurance coverage, please contact our office directly for verification with your specific provider.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call our office during regular business hours at 402-334-9100 or use our online scheduling form. Same-day appointments are available for urgent eye care needs.
What if I have an eye emergency after hours?
For sight-threatening emergencies, please visit the nearest emergency room. Our office provides urgent eye care during regular business hours and can handle most urgent eye conditions.
Are you accepting new patients?
We welcome new patients of all ages and accept many insurance plans. Schedule your first appointment through our website or by calling our office directly.
Reviews (6)
Laurie Imig
Nov 24, 2021
Report
I would highly recommend working with Crystal at Eye Care West! I purchased glasses a few weeks ago and needed to exchange them. Crystal was working today when I went in to look for a new pair of glasses. She was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, friendly and truly wanted me to leave having found glasses I love! Which I did!! Eye Care West is lucky to have such a wonderful employee!
Ahmad Sayyedahmad
Nov 15, 2021
Report
Highly recommended. Dr. Katherine Schmidt is an absolute genius, literally one of the best Optometrist Ive seen so far!
Sava Yang
Sep 28, 2021
Report
The people at the front table was being rude and talking bad about us, saying that is embarrassing and we cant afford it . Very bad experience! Very rude and disrespectful people ! Absolutely hate it !
Trevin Derr
Jul 19, 2021
Report
This is the best eye place Ive ever been to. They have the most friendly staff, from start to finish, you will ever find!
Randall Albrecht
Dec 07, 2020
Report
Great staff from beginning to end! They really care if you get the best vision and health for your eyes as possible. Faith, the lady doing billing, was so nice helping pick out glasses and went over all billing costs before I paid. I hated going to the eye doctor until I found this great group of people, Thank you to all.
Jolene Muller
Jul 20, 2020
Report
I have been going to Eye Care West for years. Bridget always remembers me and is quick to ask about how I am. She takes the time to get to know you and is always so cheerful. Ive seen all of the doctors and they are all amazing. Today I was especially impressed with Dr. Richert who took the time to go over my concerns after I discovered I might be at risk for macular degeneration. She evaluated my test results, explained them in detail then created a follow up plan for me. She also tweaked my contact prescription to perfection. Every doctor and staff member was also super diligent about wiping
