Dr. Phillip D. Grimes Optometrist in Oklahoma City: Comprehensive Eye Exams and Glasses Fitting
Dr. Phillip D. Grimes operates an independent optometry practice in Oklahoma City focused on comprehensive vision exams, eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions, and basic eye health screening. Unlike chain retailers, his practice positions itself as a patient-first clinic rather than a high-volume sales environment, though like any optometrist, he cannot perform surgery or treat advanced eye diseases requiring a specialist.
What an optometrist does versus what Grimes does and does not offer
Optometrists conduct vision tests, measure eye pressure to screen for glaucoma, examine retina and optic nerve health, and issue prescriptions for glasses and contacts. Dr. Grimes provides these services. He does not perform surgical procedures, diagnose or treat diseases such as macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy beyond identification and referral, or manage acute eye emergencies. Those cases require an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in eye disease). This distinction matters: if you have diabetes or a family history of glaucoma, you may benefit from an ophthalmologist's depth of knowledge, though many people start with an optometrist for routine screening and receive a referral when needed.
Eye exam services and what to expect in cost
A comprehensive vision exam at an independent optometry practice typically ranges from $100 to $180 depending on what tests are included. Basic exams (refraction only, checking distance and reading vision) fall at the lower end; exams that include additional screening for eye diseases cost more. Confirm the current fee before your appointment, as pricing varies by provider and changes over time. Insurance coverage also varies: many vision plans cover an annual eye exam at little or no cost, but out-of-pocket costs depend on your plan's co-pay structure. Bring your insurance card to avoid surprises at checkout.
Eyeglasses typically cost $150 to $400 for frames and lenses combined at an independent practice, depending on lens type (single vision, progressive bifocals, anti-reflective coating, high-index material for stronger prescriptions). This is usually higher than big-box retailers like Costco Optical or Warby Parker, but often includes more personalized fitting and locally available adjustments. Contact lens exams are sometimes billed separately at $50 to $100 beyond the standard eye exam, since contact fitting requires additional time and measurements.
How Grimes compares to Oklahoma City's optometry landscape
Oklahoma City has optometry options ranging from independent practices like Dr. Grimes to national chains (Walmart Vision Center, Costco Optical, Visionworks) and large optometry groups. Independent practices typically emphasize continuity of care—you see the same doctor and staff over time—and allow more unhurried appointment times. Chain retailers prioritize speed and competitive eyewear pricing, but you may see different staff or providers at each visit, and the optometrist is one of many providers cycling through. Costco Optical and Walmart Vision are price-competitive; Warby Parker operates online and in limited OKC retail locations and appeals to buyers seeking fashion-forward frames at $95 to $145. Visionworks, a regional presence in Oklahoma, offers mid-range pricing and a wider frame selection than some independents.
Choose an independent practice like Dr. Grimes if you value a long-term relationship, a slower-paced appointment, and don't prioritize the lowest eyewear cost. Choose a chain or online retailer if price and convenience are your primary drivers and you are comfortable with a transactional model.
Who benefits and who might look elsewhere
Dr. Grimes suits established residents seeking a stable optometry home, people with stable prescriptions who need regular exams and glasses updates, and anyone uncomfortable with retail-chain settings. He also works well for parents introducing teenagers to their first independent eye exams. He is less suited to people who prioritize lowest-cost eyewear (chains and online retailers are cheaper) or those with complex eye disease requiring specialist oversight (you would need an ophthalmologist anyway, though Grimes can refer).
What happens on a first visit
Expect to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for paperwork and insurance verification. The clinical portion includes a vision history (any eye problems, medications, family history of glaucoma or cataracts), a refraction (the "which is better, one or two?" test), eye pressure measurement, and examination of the eye's front and back structures. Total time is usually 45 to 60 minutes. At the end, the doctor discusses findings, writes a prescription, and discusses eyeglass or contact lens options. Bring your current glasses or contacts so the doctor can compare your old prescription to the new one and confirm the fit is still correct.
Hours, location, parking, and logistics
Verify hours and address by phone or online before visiting, as optometry practice schedules often shift with staff availability. Most independent practices in Oklahoma City keep standard business hours (roughly 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with some Saturday availability). Parking is usually ample at street-level independent practices and rarely an issue. Many insurances are accepted, but call ahead to confirm yours is in-network and understand your co-pay.
Dr. Phillip D. Grimes' practice serves Oklahoma City residents who value consistency and personal attention in eye care and are willing to invest more in frames and lenses in exchange for a quieter, longer appointment and the same provider over time.
