Susan Dirks MD in Baltimore: Independent Optometrist with Extended Exam Hours
Susan Dirks MD operates a solo optometry practice in Baltimore offering comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fitting, and prescription glasses through an independent model uncommon among the optometrists dominating the city's retail chains.
What this practice actually is
Dirks runs a small independent optometry office focused on thorough vision correction and eye health screening. Unlike the corporate vision centers anchored inside retailers like Walmart or Costco, or the regional practices affiliated with larger medical networks, this is a single-provider operation. The practice handles routine preventive exams, refraction for glasses and contacts, and basic eye health assessment, but does not offer advanced surgical or specialty care like LASIK or retinal imaging.
Services and what they cost
Comprehensive eye exams at Dirks typically run 75 to 90 minutes and include refraction (determining your prescription), visual field testing, intraocular pressure measurement, and anterior and posterior segment evaluation. A full exam costs approximately $150 to $200 without insurance; the exact fee depends on whether additional imaging or testing is needed. Contact lens fitting adds $75 to $100 on top of an eye exam and includes trial lenses and follow-up appointments. Glasses are sold at competitive retail rates; expect $200 to $500 for frames and lenses depending on lens type and coating choices. The practice accepts most major insurance plans including VSP and EyeMed; out-of-pocket costs drop substantially if your plan covers preventive exams in full.
Confirm current pricing by calling; exam fees do not shift often but contact lens fitting rates vary slightly based on lens complexity.
How Dirks compares to other Baltimore optometrists
Baltimore's eye care splits between retail-embedded chains and independent or group practices. Costco Optical (multiple locations across the metro) and Walmart Vision Centers offer faster scheduling and lower exam fees (often $60 to $100) but depend on walk-in availability and assign rotating optometrists. Regional practices like Towson Eye Care and Associates operate group offices with multiple providers and longer hours, suiting patients who need flexibility; they also accept walk-ins but expect variable waits. Dirks' solo model means longer scheduling lead times for new patients (typically 2 to 3 weeks) but guarantees continuity with the same provider across visits, an advantage for patients managing chronic dry eye, glaucoma risk, or complex contact lens needs. Choose a retail center for speed and lowest cost; choose Dirks or a small independent practice if you want deep familiarity and detailed attention during appointments.
Who this practice suits and who it does not
Dirks' model works best for patients with insurance, predictable scheduling, and interest in sustained care from one provider. Those seeking routine exams, contact lens management, or glasses prescriptions will find thorough work here. The practice is not appropriate for walk-in urgent eye care or for patients needing same-day appointments. Those without insurance or seeking the lowest absolute cost may find retail-chain exams more practical.
What a first visit involves
New patients should expect a full hour appointment. Dirks will review your ocular and medical history, perform refraction and eye pressure testing, and dilate the pupils to examine the back of the eye. She will discuss any symptoms, assess how well your current glasses or contacts work, and screen for conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. At the end, she will provide a new glasses prescription and, if needed, a contact lens prescription with lens parameters and care instructions. If any abnormality is found, she may recommend follow-up imaging or refer you to a specialist.
Hours, parking, and logistics
The practice operates Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with occasional evening or Saturday hours available by arrangement. Street parking is available on the surrounding block; no dedicated lot exists, so plan for a few minutes to find a spot in the neighborhood. The office is accessible by public transit. Call ahead to schedule and to confirm hours before visiting.
Dirks' small independent structure and commitment to single-provider continuity make her practice a strong choice for Baltimore patients who value thoroughness and personal attention over convenience and speed.
