Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

Dr. Shilpa Patel has been practicing optometry since 2000 and opened St Clair Eye in 2025.

We provide timely and detailed communications to enhance patient care between doctors.

Yes, St Clair Eye partners with St Clair Community Health Clinic to provide eyecare to those that qualify. St Clair Eye also partners with local business to provide workman's compensation and injury evaluations.

We offer comprehensive care for the family including pediatric eye exams, glaucoma evaluations, cataract evaluations, diabetic eye exams, and exams for people on high-risk medications.

Yes, we have a comprehensive optical and provide eyeglasses for Medicaid. We accept outside prescriptions. And, you can use your own frame, if desired.

Yes, we can repair most eyeglasses as well as adjustments.

Yes, we offer contact lens examinations/fittings. We also accept outside prescriptions for contact lens orders direct to your house.

Yes, we are Kulture City certified and have years of experience providing eye examinations for those with special needs.

No, we do not provide in home services but can provide a consultation through telemedicine. We are wheelchair and stretcher accessible.

Yes, we provide emergency eye care during business hours. Established patients can text at 205-851-8920 for urgent/emergency care.

Yes, we offer 10% off optical purchases with verified ID.

Yes, you need a scheduled appointment. You can call us at 205-206-4518 or text us at 205-851-8920 to schedule an appointment.

For most adults, a comprehensive eye exam is necessary every year. For children, a comprehensive eye exam is recommended every 1-2 years depending on the child’s history.

Please bring your ID and insurance card to the visit. If you have an old prescription or contact lenses, please bring that information as well.

A typical comprehensive eye exam takes about 1-2 hours.

Yes, Dr. Shilpa Patel is trained and experienced in managing and treating eye infections. She can take care of eye injuries including removing metal from the eye. Sudden vision problems can also be evaluated in office with an appointment.

Yes, we offer prescription sunglasses that can be tinted or polarized.

Yes, we offer safety glasses with and without prescription. We have a selection that patients can choose from and are ANSI certified.

? Yes, St Clair Eye works with all types of vision plans on an out of network basis. As an out of network provider, we are not contracted directly with your plan but we can provide you with services/materials and still utilize your benefits/coverage. We can pull your vision-plan eligibility and coverage and let you know the reimbursement directly.

Yes, we offer self pay options. Please let us know that you are self pay when making the appointment so we can review the details with you.

We offer a budget line for those on a fixed budget. We also have limited funds available to assist those individuals who meet specific criteria and need eyeglasses.