Dr. Janet Siddiqui in Baltimore: Comprehensive Eye Exams and Medical Optometry
Dr. Janet Siddiqui is an optometrist in Baltimore offering comprehensive vision exams, management of eye disease, and prescription eyewear consultations. Her practice focuses on medical optometry—diagnosis and treatment of conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy—beyond standard refraction and glasses fitting.
What Dr. Siddiqui's practice actually provides
Medical optometry differs from basic vision correction. Dr. Siddiqui performs diagnostic testing for glaucoma using tonometry and visual field analysis, manages dry eye syndrome with clinical assessments and treatment options, and evaluates diabetic and hypertensive changes in the retina during routine exams. This scope sits between a general vision screening and the surgical interventions an ophthalmologist performs. For Baltimore residents with eye disease in the early stages or those managing chronic conditions, this level of clinical depth avoids unnecessary ophthalmology referrals while catching problems that a simpler eye exam would miss.
Services and pricing
A comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Siddiqui typically costs between $150 and $200 without insurance. Exams include refraction, tonometry, dilated fundus examination, and specialized testing as clinically indicated. If you carry vision insurance through plans like EyeMed or VSP, coverage usually applies to the exam portion; confirm your specific copay and out-of-pocket limits with your insurer before your appointment. Eyeglass prescriptions are provided at the exam visit; frames and lenses are purchased separately through the practice or an outside retailer. Contact lens fits, when needed, involve an additional fitting fee, typically $50 to $75.
How Baltimore optometrists compare
Baltimore has several optometrists spread across neighborhoods. Whiting-Turner optometry services exist within larger chains like Pearle Vision, where exams cost similarly ($140–$180) but are often scheduled back-to-back with optical sales. Independent practices like Dr. Siddiqui's allow more time for complex cases and disease management without the pressure to upsell frames on-site. For routine refractions in a high-volume setting, chain optometrists often have faster appointment availability; for patients with glaucoma, diabetes, or a family history of eye disease, the clinical thoroughness and one-on-one time at an independent practice is usually more appropriate.
Who this practice suits and who it does not
Dr. Siddiqui's practice works well for established patients needing annual disease monitoring, people with undiagnosed eye symptoms (floaters, pressure sensations, blurred vision), and those seeking a second opinion before ophthalmology referral. It is not a walk-in emergency service—acute trauma, sudden vision loss, or chemical eye injuries require an emergency department. If you need frame selection from a large in-store inventory, a chain optometrist with an attached optical shop is faster. If you require advanced imaging (OCT for macular degeneration) or surgical evaluation, you will be referred to an ophthalmologist; Dr. Siddiqui can facilitate that referral.
What the first visit involves
Bring your insurance card and a list of current medications, including over-the-counter drops or supplements. The appointment begins with a health and vision history questionnaire. Dr. Siddiqui will measure your eye pressure, test your visual fields if indicated, check eye alignment and movement, and dilate your pupils to examine the retina. The refraction (determining your prescription) is performed using a phoropter, a device that cycles through lens options. A dilated exam typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour; plan for blurred vision and light sensitivity for 4 to 6 hours afterward. Your prescription is given in written form; you may fill it immediately at an optical shop or order online.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Verify current hours and appointment availability by calling the practice directly; hours vary seasonally and are subject to change. Street parking is available in most Baltimore neighborhoods; confirm whether the office building offers dedicated or validated parking when you schedule. The practice is not located on a major public transit line; driving or rideshare is the most reliable option. If you require accommodations for mobility or vision loss, note this when scheduling so the staff can assist.
Dr. Siddiqui's practice fills a specific role in Baltimore's vision care landscape: thorough, unhurried eye exams for people managing disease or seeking depth beyond refraction. For routine vision correction, other options exist; for clinical optometry, this is the standard.
