Selbyandtaylor.com Review

Based on looking at the website, Selbyandtaylor.com appears to be a legitimate local opticians and audiology service based in March and Chatteris, UK, offering a range of eye and hearing care services.

The site presents as a family-run business with over 35 years of experience, aiming to provide comprehensive eye exams, contact lens services, specialist treatments, and an online shop for related products.

However, while the website outlines their services, it lacks some common elements found on highly transparent and modern e-commerce or service provider sites, which could raise questions for a discerning online consumer, particularly regarding a full, real-time customer review system or clear security assurances beyond basic contact information.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Type: Local Opticians and Audiology Service with an online shop.
• Services Offered: Eye exams, contact lenses, children’s eye care, VDU assessments, corporate services, specialist treatments Dry AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, Dry Eye, Visual Stress, and hearing services.
• Online Shop: Offers products like anti-fog cloths, tea tree wipes, dry eye sprays, and eye drops.
• Physical Locations: March, Cambridgeshire PE15 8BQ and Chatteris, Cambridgeshire PE16 6BH.
• Experience: Claims “over 35 years of experience serving the public within healthcare.”
• Contact Information: Phone numbers and an email address are provided.
• Transparency: Offers a “Fees” page and detailed service descriptions.
• Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Limited visible on-site customer reviews. one product shows star ratings but no specific testimonials.
• Copyright Information: Shows “Copyright© of Selby & Taylor Opticians 2010-2021.”
• Overall Assessment: Appears to be a functional, local business website for booking appointments and purchasing some related products. Lacks advanced transparency features like detailed customer review sections, comprehensive privacy policy links, or direct links to external professional accreditations on the homepage, which are standard for many established online businesses.

The website clearly emphasizes its local presence and long-standing experience in eye and hearing care.

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This focus on traditional, in-person service is evident, with the online shop appearing to be a supplementary offering.

While the site provides essential information about their services and locations, the absence of robust customer review features, easily accessible privacy and terms pages, or transparent security badges beyond what a basic SSL certificate offers might lead some users to seek additional verification for peace of mind.

For those seeking comprehensive healthcare services, direct engagement via phone or in-person visits aligns with the site’s primary function.

Here are some of the best alternatives for ethical eye care products and services:

• Zenni Optical

  • Key Features: Affordable prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses online, wide variety of frames, virtual try-on, blue light blocking lenses.
  • Average Price: Glasses starting from $6.95, with various lens and coating upgrades.
  • Pros: Highly affordable, convenient online ordering, large selection, options for various vision needs.
  • Cons: Requires a valid prescription, cannot try on physical frames before purchase, returns might involve shipping.

• Warby Parker

  • Key Features: Stylish prescription eyewear and sunglasses, home try-on program 5 frames for 5 days, brick-and-mortar stores, online eye exams for renewals.
  • Average Price: Complete prescription glasses starting from $95.
  • Pros: Fashionable designs, excellent customer service, home try-on, philanthropic “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” program.
  • Cons: Higher price point than some online competitors, limited selection compared to mass retailers.

• EyeBuyDirect

  • Key Features: Extensive range of prescription glasses and sunglasses, various lens options blue light, progressive, photochromic, frequent discounts and promotions.
  • Average Price: Glasses starting from $6.
  • Pros: Very competitive pricing, frequent sales, large inventory, good for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Cons: Quality can vary depending on frame choice, returns process might take time, primarily an online experience.

• Liingo Eyewear

  • Key Features: Free home try-on program 5 frames for 5 days, free shipping and returns, prescription glasses and sunglasses, focus on modern styles.
  • Average Price: Glasses starting around $79.
  • Pros: Risk-free home try-on, straightforward pricing, good quality frames, responsive customer support.
  • Cons: Smaller selection of frames compared to larger retailers, primarily online.

• Coastal

  • Key Features: Prescription glasses, contact lenses, sunglasses, wide brand selection for contact lenses, offers a “First Pair Free” program for new customers frames only.
  • Average Price: Glasses starting around $19, contact lenses vary by brand.
  • Pros: Great for contact lens users, occasional promotions, decent selection of frames.
  • Cons: Website can be overwhelming with many options, frame quality can be inconsistent across different price points.

• America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses

  • Key Features: Combines retail stores with online presence, offers eye exams, 2 pairs of glasses for $69.95 deal, contact lens fittings.
  • Average Price: Deals like 2 pairs for $69.95, individual glasses vary.
  • Pros: Affordable in-store eye exams, good value for multiple pairs, physical locations for adjustments and service.
  • Cons: Frame selection at the lowest price point can be limited, push for add-ons, long wait times for appointments at some locations.

• LensCrafters

  • Key Features: High-quality frames, in-store eye exams, wide range of designer brands, fast in-store lens crafting, comprehensive eye care services.
  • Average Price: Higher price point, typically $150-$500+ for complete glasses.
  • Pros: Convenient in-store service, extensive selection of premium brands, professional staff, fast turnaround.
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive than online-only options, frequent upselling, less transparent pricing online without insurance.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Selbyandtaylor.com Review & First Look

When you land on Selbyandtaylor.com, you immediately get the impression of a traditional, locally-focused opticians’ practice. The homepage highlights “Selby & Taylor Opticians in March & Chatteris,” emphasizing their physical locations and a history spanning “over 35 years of experience.” This foundational message aims to build trust through longevity and community presence.

The website structure is straightforward, with clear navigation menus like “EYECARE,” “EYE EXAMS,” “CONTACT LENSES,” and “HEARING.” This organization suggests a comprehensive service offering beyond just basic eye tests.

For instance, the inclusion of “DRY AMD TREATMENT” and “DIABETIC RETINOPATHY TREATMENT” points to specialized medical eye care, which is a significant aspect for those with specific health needs.

A noteworthy section is the “ONLINE SHOP,” which, while present, appears to be a supplementary feature rather than the primary focus.

It lists items like “REUSABLE ANTI-FOG CLOTH” and various eye drops and cleaning solutions. Popularboxessquishy.com Review

This aligns with a professional practice providing convenience for patients to purchase essential care products.

However, the online shop’s presentation is basic, suggesting it’s not a major e-commerce platform but rather a practical extension of their in-person services.

One immediate observation is the copyright notice, stating “Copyright© of Selby & Taylor Opticians 2010-2021.” This indicates that while the business has a long history, the website itself might not have seen a significant update since 2021. For a modern online presence, especially in healthcare, regular updates are crucial for security, user experience, and displaying the most current information.

Initial Impressions of Design and User Experience

The design of Selbyandtaylor.com is functional but not overtly modern or flashy. It prioritizes information delivery over sleek aesthetics. The color scheme is professional, and the layout is clean, allowing users to find key sections easily.

• Navigation: The top and bottom navigation bars are consistent, featuring links to all major service categories. This ease of navigation is a strong point, allowing visitors to quickly jump to areas of interest such as EYE EXAMS or FEES.
• Clarity of Information: Services are clearly listed with dedicated pages, such as DRY EYE and VISUAL STRESS. This ensures that potential patients can understand the range of care provided.
• Call to Action: The “BOOK APPOINTMENT” button is prominent, directing users to selbyandtaylor.mysight.uk, which appears to be their third-party booking portal. This seamless transition to an external booking system is efficient.
• Mobile Responsiveness: While not explicitly tested through the provided text, a modern website would ideally be fully responsive across various devices. The layout suggests a standard desktop-first design, which may or may not translate perfectly to smaller screens without dedicated optimization.

Trust Signals and Credibility on the Homepage

The homepage aims to establish credibility primarily through its claimed longevity and family-run status. Bao-aquarium.com Review

• “Over 35 years of experience”: This is a strong statement indicating deep roots in the community and extensive expertise. For many, a long operational history is a significant trust signal.
• “Family run Opticians”: This conveys a sense of personal care and dedication often associated with local businesses. It suggests a more patient-centric approach than large corporate chains.
• Patient Growth: The claim “gain over 1000 new patients each year!” quantifies their success and popularity, reinforcing their reputation.
• Professional Staff: Mention of “qualified clinical assistants trained to exceed your expectations” highlights their commitment to service quality.

Online Shop Offerings and E-commerce Features

The “ONLINE SHOP” section on Selbyandtaylor.com is concise and practical.

It highlights a few key products relevant to eye health:

• REUSABLE ANTI-FOG CLOTH: A practical item, especially post-pandemic for mask wearers using glasses.
• Optase Tea Tree wipes: Indicative of products for lid hygiene, often recommended for conditions like blepharitis.
• OPTASE® PROTECT & OPTASE® Dry Eye Spray: Common over-the-counter solutions for dry eye symptoms.
• Hycosan® Dual: Another popular brand of eye drops for dry eye relief.

The listing of these products with “On Sale” tags and star ratings though minimal suggests a basic e-commerce functionality.

However, the text does not detail payment gateways, shipping policies, or return procedures directly on the homepage, which are typical expectations for comprehensive online shops.

This reinforces the idea that the online shop is an ancillary service rather than a standalone retail venture. Bransionmedia.com Review

Selbyandtaylor.com Pros & Cons

When evaluating Selbyandtaylor.com, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against areas where it could improve, especially from the perspective of a modern digital consumer.

Understanding these aspects helps potential patients decide if the website meets their expectations for transparency, convenience, and information.

Selbyandtaylor.com Pros

The website clearly has several strong points, particularly given its focus as a local healthcare provider.

• Established Local Presence and Experience: The claim of “over 35 years of experience” and being a “family run Opticians” immediately conveys a sense of stability and reliability. This is a significant advantage for those seeking long-term care from a trusted community provider. Patients often value consistency and personal relationships with their healthcare professionals.
  • Benefit: Builds immediate trust and confidence in the practice’s longevity and commitment to local service.
  • Data Point: “gain over 1000 new patients each year!” suggests consistent patient growth and satisfaction.
• Comprehensive Service Offering: The extensive list of services, including EYE EXAMS, CONTACT LENSES, CHILDREN‘s eye care, VDU'S AND YOUR EYES Visual Display Unit assessments, CORPORATE services, and specialized treatments like DRY AMD TREATMENT and DIABETIC RETINOPATHY TREATMENT, indicates a holistic approach to eye health. The addition of HEARING services further broadens their scope.
  • Benefit: Caters to a wide range of patient needs, from routine check-ups to complex medical conditions, making it a one-stop shop for vision and hearing.
  • Example: Dedicated pages for DRY EYE and VISUAL STRESS show specialized focus.
• Clear Contact Information and Physical Locations: Providing two distinct physical addresses for March and Chatteris, along with corresponding phone numbers and a general email address, is crucial for accessibility. This makes it easy for prospective patients to reach out directly or visit in person.
  • Benefit: Enhances trustworthiness and allows for immediate, direct communication, which is vital in healthcare.
  • Details: March: 01354 660909. Chatteris: 01354 669252.
• Easy Appointment Booking: The prominent “BOOK APPOINTMENT” button that links to selbyandtaylor.mysight.uk streamlines the process of scheduling a visit. A direct online booking system is a major convenience for modern users.
  • Benefit: Reduces friction in the patient acquisition process and offers 24/7 booking capability.
  • Integration: Utilizing a dedicated booking portal mysight.uk suggests a professional backend for appointment management.
• Online Shop for Essential Products: While basic, the inclusion of an online shop for items like anti-fog cloths and various eye drops e.g., OPTASE® PROTECT, Hycosan® Dual provides added convenience for existing patients to replenish supplies.
  • Benefit: Enhances patient retention and provides a valuable complementary service.
  • Convenience: Allows patients to purchase recommended products without needing an in-person visit.

Selbyandtaylor.com Cons

Despite its advantages, Selbyandtaylor.com exhibits several areas that could be improved, particularly concerning modern web standards and user expectations for digital transparency and engagement.

• Lack of Visible Customer Testimonials/Reviews: The most significant drawback is the absence of prominent, verifiable customer reviews or testimonials directly on the homepage or easily accessible from it. While product ratings appear in the online shop, there are no broader patient experience reviews.
  • Impact: Reduces immediate social proof and trust for new visitors who rely heavily on peer experiences before engaging with a service provider. According to a BrightLocal survey from 2023, 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
  • Improvement: Integrate a dedicated testimonials section, link to external review platforms Google Reviews, Yelp, or showcase patient success stories.
• Outdated Copyright Information and Design: The copyright notice “Copyright© of Selby & Taylor Opticians 2010-2021” suggests the website hasn’t been significantly updated in several years. A lack of recent updates can raise concerns about site security, modern functionality, and the currency of information.
  • Impact: May convey an impression of a less active or technologically progressive business.
  • Improvement: Update copyright yearly, consider a website refresh to align with contemporary design trends and ensure mobile-first responsiveness.
• Limited Transparency on Privacy and Terms: The homepage doesn’t prominently feature direct links to a privacy policy, terms of service, or accessibility statements. While these might exist on other pages, their absence from the primary navigation or footer reduces immediate transparency.
  • Impact: For health-related services, data privacy is paramount. Lack of clear policy links can deter privacy-conscious users.
  • Improvement: Ensure explicit links to comprehensive privacy policies, terms of service, and possibly an accessibility statement are visible in the footer across all pages.
• Basic E-commerce Functionality: The online shop, while useful, appears quite basic. Details about shipping costs, delivery times, return policies, and secure payment methods are not immediately clear from the homepage.
  • Impact: Might deter users from purchasing online if they are unsure about the logistics or security of their transaction.
  • Improvement: Provide clear, concise information about e-commerce policies shipping, returns, FAQs on the shop pages and link to them prominently.
• Absence of SSL/Security Badges: While an SSL certificate is likely in place indicated by https:// in the URL, the absence of visible security badges or assurances e.g., Trustpilot, recognized healthcare accreditations on the homepage might leave some users seeking more explicit security confirmations, especially when entering personal information for bookings or purchases.
  • Impact: Can subtly undermine trust in the digital security of the platform.
  • Improvement: Display security seals or badges from reputable third-party security providers.

Selbyandtaylor.com Alternatives

Given the specific services offered by Selbyandtaylor.com – comprehensive eye care, including exams, contact lenses, and specialist treatments, alongside an online shop for related products – alternatives would generally fall into two categories: other optical practices both local and national chains and online eyewear retailers. Gensme.com Review

Ethical considerations, particularly in the context of Islamic principles, guide the selection of these alternatives, focusing on transparency, non-interest-based transactions where applicable, e.g., in payment plans if offered, and general ethical business practices.

Here’s a breakdown of alternatives, focusing on those providing similar services or filling gaps identified in Selbyandtaylor.com’s online presence:

For Comprehensive Eye Care & In-Person Service:

These alternatives focus on providing the full range of eye exams, fittings, and specialist care similar to Selby & Taylor, often with a stronger national presence or more robust online engagement.

1. Visionworks

   • Key Features: One of the largest optical retailers in the U.S., offering comprehensive eye exams, a wide selection of prescription glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. They emphasize value and convenience with many locations.
   • Why it’s an alternative: Provides a similar scope of services, including full eye health assessments, but with a broader national footprint. Their online presence is generally more modern and facilitates appointment booking and product browsing more seamlessly.
   • Ethical Consideration: Standard retail optics model. Focus on direct purchase of frames and lenses.

2. Pearle Vision Tucsonprolandscaping.com Review

   • Key Features: A well-established chain of optometrists offering thorough eye exams, designer frames, and contact lenses. They focus on personalized care and eye health education.
   • Why it’s an alternative: Similar to Selby & Taylor in prioritizing comprehensive eye care and patient education. Their brand emphasizes professional care.
   • Ethical Consideration: Traditional retail and service model, generally considered ethical in operations.

3. Costco Optical

   • Key Features: Offers competitive pricing on eye exams, contact lenses, and a significant selection of prescription eyewear, often featuring high-quality lenses. Membership is required for purchases.
   • Why it’s an alternative: Known for value and quality. While part of a larger warehouse club, their optical centers are staffed by optometrists and offer a full range of services.
   • Ethical Consideration: Straightforward retail model. The membership fee is for access to bulk-buy savings, not interest-based.

For Online Eyewear Purchases & Convenience:

These alternatives excel in the online retail space for glasses and contact lenses, often providing a different level of convenience and selection compared to a local optician’s online shop.

4. Zenni Optical

   • Key Features: Pioneers of online prescription eyewear, offering highly affordable glasses and sunglasses. Users can upload their prescription and choose from thousands of frames.
   • Why it’s an alternative: If a patient only needs to purchase glasses or sunglasses based on an existing prescription, Zenni provides an incredibly cost-effective and diverse option, far exceeding the product range seen on Selby & Taylor’s online shop.
   • Ethical Consideration: Direct sale of goods, transparent pricing.

5. Warby Parker

   • Key Features: Known for stylish, direct-to-consumer eyewear, home try-on programs, and a strong brand presence. They also offer online eye exams for prescription renewals and have physical showrooms.
   • Why it’s an alternative: Combines a strong online retail experience with a touch of personalized service home try-on. Offers a curated selection of fashionable frames.
   • Ethical Consideration: Direct sale model, ethical in its “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” social mission.

6. EyeBuyDirect Eoneenterprises.com Review

   • Key Features: Another major online retailer for prescription glasses and sunglasses, featuring frequent sales, a vast selection, and various lens options.
   • Why it’s an alternative: Offers similar benefits to Zenni in terms of affordability and selection, with a focus on frequent promotions. Good for those who know their prescription and want to shop from home.
   • Ethical Consideration: Standard e-commerce, direct sales.

For Specific Eye Health Products Online Shop:

These are direct alternatives for the types of eye care products sold on Selbyandtaylor.com’s online shop, often with broader selections and more robust e-commerce platforms.

7. Amazon Broad Category Search
   • Key Features: Massive marketplace offering a vast array of eye care products, including anti-fog solutions, eye drops, lid wipes, and eye protection, from numerous brands.
   • Why it’s an alternative: For direct purchase of specific products like those offered on Selby & Taylor’s online shop, Amazon provides unparalleled selection, competitive pricing, and fast shipping.
   • Ethical Consideration: As a marketplace, the ethics depend on individual sellers, but the platform itself is a direct retail facilitator. Consumers can find halal-certified or ethically sourced products by checking descriptions.

Each of these alternatives provides a different blend of in-person service, online convenience, and product range, allowing consumers to choose based on their specific needs, budget, and preference for digital versus physical interaction.

How to Book an Appointment with Selbyandtaylor.com

Booking an appointment with Selby & Taylor Opticians is designed to be straightforward, leveraging a third-party online booking system.

This process aligns with modern healthcare practices where online scheduling is preferred for its convenience and efficiency. Paranteze.com Review

Navigating to the Booking Portal

The primary method for booking an appointment is through the “BOOK APPOINTMENT” button prominently displayed on the Selbyandtaylor.com homepage.

This button acts as a direct gateway to their dedicated booking platform.

• Homepage Visibility: The call to action is clear and easy to spot, typically found near the top of the page or within key service sections.
• Direct Link: Clicking this button redirects users to selbyandtaylor.mysight.uk. This indicates that Selby & Taylor utilizes a specialized healthcare booking software likely “MySight” or a similar provider to manage their appointments, rather than hosting the booking system directly on their main website. This is a common and secure practice for medical facilities.
• Alternative Booking: While the website heavily promotes online booking, traditional methods like calling their physical locations 01354 660909 for March or 01354 669252 for Chatteris remain viable options for those who prefer speaking directly with staff.

Steps for Online Appointment Booking via MySight.uk

While the full interactive process is on the mysight.uk platform, the typical steps for booking an eye exam or other service through such a system involve:

1. Select Service Type: Users will likely be prompted to choose the type of appointment they need e.g., “Full Eye Exam,” “Contact Lens Check,” “Dry Eye Assessment,” “Hearing Test”.
2. Choose Location: If Selby & Taylor has multiple branches as they do, March and Chatteris, the system will ask the user to select their preferred location.
3. Select Optometrist/Practitioner Optional: Some systems allow users to choose a specific practitioner if they have a preference, though this might not always be available.
4. Find Available Time Slots: The system will display available dates and times based on the selected service and location. Users can then pick a slot that fits their schedule.
5. Enter Personal Details: This typically includes:
   • Full Name
   • Date of Birth
   • Contact Number
   • Email Address
   • Any relevant medical history or specific concerns for the appointment.
   • Insurance information if applicable.
6. Confirmation: After submitting the details, users usually receive an email or SMS confirmation of their appointment, often with an option to add it to their personal calendar. Reminders are also common closer to the appointment date.

Information Required for Booking

To ensure a smooth booking process, individuals should have the following information ready:

• Personal Identification: Full name and date of birth.
• Contact Information: A reliable phone number and email address for confirmations and follow-ups.
• Purpose of Visit: A clear idea of the service required e.g., routine eye exam, contact lens fitting, specific eye condition consultation.
• Previous History Optional but helpful: If they are a returning patient, having their patient ID or previous appointment details might streamline the process. For new patients, any relevant medical history can be noted.
• Insurance Details: If using vision insurance, having the provider and policy details ready will be necessary to check coverage and benefits.

The integration with mysight.uk implies a professional and secure approach to handling patient appointment data. Girliesxo.com Review

It is common for healthcare providers to use specialized, secure platforms for booking to ensure compliance with data protection regulations and provide a robust scheduling system.

Users should always ensure they are on a secure https:// page when entering personal or health-related information.

Selbyandtaylor.com Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure for healthcare services like those offered by Selby & Taylor Opticians is crucial for patients.

The website includes a dedicated “FEES” page, which is a commendable act of transparency.

This direct approach to pricing sets clear expectations for potential patients regarding the cost of various services. Snaptotes.com Review

Overview of Pricing Transparency

The presence of a “FEES” page https://selbyandtaylor.com/fees.html on Selbyandtaylor.com is a significant positive.

Many healthcare providers, especially smaller practices, sometimes prefer to discuss fees only upon inquiry or during the appointment itself.

Selby & Taylor’s decision to publish their fees upfront indicates a commitment to transparency, allowing patients to budget and understand potential costs before booking.

• Direct Access: The link to “FEES” is clearly visible in the main navigation, making it easy for visitors to find this critical information.
• Categorized Fees: While the exact content of the “FEES” page is not provided, typically such pages categorize costs by service type. This allows patients to identify the specific fees related to general eye exams, contact lens appointments, specialist consultations, and perhaps even minor procedures or follow-up visits.
• Product Pricing: For items in their “ONLINE SHOP,” such as anti-fog cloths and eye drops, prices are listed directly on the product images, often with “On Sale” indicators. This is standard e-commerce practice, where product prices are immediately visible.

Typical Services with Associated Fees

Based on the services listed on the homepage, common fees would likely include:

1. Standard Eye Exam: This is the most basic service, usually involving a comprehensive check of vision and eye health. Prices for this can vary significantly by region and practice, but transparency helps patients compare.
2. Contact Lens Fitting/Check-up: Distinct from a standard eye exam, these fees cover the specific measurements, trials, and follow-ups required for safe and effective contact lens wear.
3. Specialist Consultations: Services like DRY AMD TREATMENT, DIABETIC RETINOPATHY TREATMENT, DRY EYE, and VISUAL STRESS assessments often incur separate, higher fees due to the specialized equipment, expertise, and time involved.
4. Hearing Tests: As they also offer HEARING services, there would be a fee structure for audiology assessments.
5. Corporate Services: Fees for services provided to businesses, such as VDU'S AND YOUR EYES assessments for employees, would be negotiated or set out in a corporate rate structure.
6. Product Costs: The ONLINE SHOP lists products such as REUSABLE ANTI-FOG CLOTH, OPTASE® PROTECT, Hycosan® Dual, and Optase Tea Tree wipes. These are priced individually.

Important Considerations for Fees

When reviewing the “FEES” page, prospective patients should look for clarity on several points: Carolinemansfield.com Review

• Inclusive vs. Exclusive Pricing: Is the listed fee all-inclusive, or are there potential additional costs for tests, scans, or prescriptions?
• Insurance Acceptance: Does the practice accept private health insurance, and if so, how does that impact the out-of-pocket cost? Information on accepted insurance providers is crucial for many patients.
• Payment Methods: What forms of payment are accepted cash, card, digital payments?
• Cancellation Policy: Understanding any fees or penalties for missed or canceled appointments is important.
• Package Deals: Are there any package deals for multiple services e.g., eye exam plus glasses?

While the website transparently hosts a “FEES” page, patients should always review its content thoroughly for these specifics.

For healthcare, unexpected costs can be a major source of patient dissatisfaction, making upfront clarity on fees a best practice.

Given the presence of the page, it signals that Selby & Taylor aims to be upfront about their service costs.

Selbyandtaylor.com vs. Other Eye Care Providers

Comparing Selbyandtaylor.com to other eye care providers involves looking at different models: local independent opticians, national chains, and online-only retailers.

Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice often depends on an individual’s priorities, whether it’s personalized care, cost, convenience, or extensive product selection. Frontierpc.com Review

Selby & Taylor: The Independent Local Model

Selby & Taylor positions itself as a family-run independent opticians with a deep local presence. This model typically emphasizes:

• Personalized Care: Independent practices often offer a more tailored, continuous relationship with patients. The same optometrist might see a patient for years, building a strong understanding of their eye health history. This is often cited as a key benefit by patients valuing continuity.
• Community Trust: With “over 35 years of experience” and “generations of families” as patients, Selby & Taylor highlights its established roots and trust within the March and Chatteris communities. This local reputation is often built on word-of-mouth and consistent service.
• Specialized Services: Independent opticians can sometimes offer more niche or specialized treatments like Dry AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy treatment that might not be as prominently featured or readily available at every chain location.
• Flexibility: Being independent, they may have more flexibility in sourcing lenses or frames that aren’t tied to corporate suppliers, potentially offering a broader range of unique options, or focusing on high-quality independent brands.
• Limited Online Transparency: As noted, the website, while functional, lacks some of the comprehensive online features e.g., extensive online reviews, detailed privacy policies, cutting-edge UI that larger online-focused entities often provide. The online shop is a practical add-on, not a primary e-commerce hub.

National Chains e.g., Visionworks, Pearle Vision, America’s Best

National chains operate on a larger scale, offering different advantages:

• Wider Accessibility: With hundreds or thousands of locations across the country, chains offer geographical convenience for patients who move frequently or travel.
• Standardized Pricing & Promotions: Chains often run national promotions e.g., “2 pairs for $69.95” at America’s Best and have standardized pricing, which can be appealing for budget-conscious consumers.
• Technology & Equipment: Larger chains might invest heavily in the latest diagnostic equipment across many locations, ensuring a consistent level of technological capability.
• Brand Recognition: Established national brands often carry a high level of recognition and perceived reliability simply due to their widespread presence and marketing.
• Less Personalized Care: While professional, the patient experience might feel less personalized compared to a family-run practice, with less continuity of care with the same practitioner.
• Corporate Focus: Decision-making and product selection are often centralized, which might limit the range of unique or independent frame brands.

Online-Only Retailers e.g., Zenni Optical, Warby Parker, EyeBuyDirect

These providers primarily operate online, fundamentally changing the eyewear purchasing experience:

• Unbeatable Convenience: Patients can browse, try on virtually or via home try-on programs, and purchase glasses or contact lenses from the comfort of their home, 24/7.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By cutting out traditional retail overheads, online retailers often offer significantly lower prices for frames and lenses. Zenni Optical, for instance, is known for glasses starting from under $10.
• Vast Selection: Online inventories are typically far larger than any physical store, offering thousands of frame styles and lens options.
• Requires Existing Prescription: A key limitation is the need for a current, valid prescription, as comprehensive eye exams generally cannot be performed online.
• No In-Person Adjustments/Repairs: While some offer virtual assistance, the lack of immediate physical support for adjustments, repairs, or complex fittings can be a drawback.
• Return Process: Returns usually involve shipping, which can be less convenient than walking into a physical store.

Conclusion of Comparison

Selbyandtaylor.com fits the mold of a reputable, established local healthcare provider. Its strength lies in its personalized, long-term patient relationships and comprehensive in-person services within its community. For someone living in March or Chatteris who values a trusted local optician and a full spectrum of eye and hearing care, Selby & Taylor presents a strong option.

However, for consumers prioritizing the lowest possible cost for eyewear, the widest selection of frames, or the convenience of fully online purchasing, dedicated online retailers like Zenni or Warby Parker would be more suitable. Freewaycreative.com Review

For those seeking national brand recognition or consistent deals across many locations, chains like Visionworks or America’s Best might be preferred.

The online shop feature on Selbyandtaylor.com serves more as a supplementary convenience for existing patients rather than a primary retail channel competing with large e-commerce platforms.

FAQs

What is Selbyandtaylor.com?

Selbyandtaylor.com is the official website for Selby & Taylor Opticians, a family-run optical and audiology practice based in March and Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, UK.

They offer a range of eye care services, hearing services, and an online shop for related products.

Is Selbyandtaylor.com a legitimate business?

Yes, based on the website’s information, Selby & Taylor Opticians appears to be a legitimate business with physical locations and claims over 35 years of experience serving the public in healthcare. Proitkeys.com Review

They provide clear contact information and addresses.

What services does Selbyandtaylor.com offer?

Selbyandtaylor.com offers comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, children’s eye care, VDU assessments, corporate services, specialist treatments for conditions like Dry AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy, Dry Eye, and Visual Stress, as well as hearing services.

They also have an online shop for eye care products.

How can I book an appointment with Selby & Taylor Opticians?

You can book an appointment by clicking the “BOOK APPOINTMENT” button on their website, which directs you to their online booking portal at selbyandtaylor.mysight.uk. Alternatively, you can call their March branch at 01354 660909 or their Chatteris branch at 01354 669252.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com have an online shop?

Yes, Selbyandtaylor.com features an “ONLINE SHOP” where you can purchase essential eye care products such as reusable anti-fog cloths, Optase Tea Tree wipes, OPTASE® PROTECT spray, OPTASE® Dry Eye Spray, and Hycosan® Dual eye drops. Oznium.com Review

Where are Selby & Taylor Opticians located?

Selby & Taylor Opticians has two physical locations:

1. March: 44 Dartford Road, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 8BQ
2. Chatteris: 42 High Street, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6BH

What is the copyright date on Selbyandtaylor.com?

The copyright notice on Selbyandtaylor.com states “Copyright© of Selby & Taylor Opticians 2010-2021,” suggesting the website itself might not have been significantly updated since 2021.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com offer specialist eye treatments?

Yes, they offer specialist services including Dry AMD treatment, Diabetic Retinopathy treatment, Dry Eye assessment and management, and Visual Stress assessment.

Can I find information on fees for services on Selbyandtaylor.com?

Yes, Selbyandtaylor.com has a dedicated “FEES” page accessible from their main navigation menu, which outlines the costs associated with their various services.

Are there customer reviews or testimonials visible on Selbyandtaylor.com’s homepage?

No, the homepage does not prominently display general customer testimonials or links to external review platforms. Animalhospitalofcloverdale.com Review

While some products in their online shop show star ratings, broader service reviews are not readily visible on the main page.

What types of products are sold in Selbyandtaylor.com’s online shop?

The online shop primarily sells eye care accessories and over-the-counter solutions, including anti-fog cloths, eye lid cleaning wipes, and various brands of dry eye sprays and eye drops.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com offer services for children’s eye care?

Yes, Selbyandtaylor.com specifically lists “CHILDREN” as one of their service categories, indicating they provide eye care tailored for younger patients.

What is VDU’s and Your Eyes on Selbyandtaylor.com?

“VDU’S AND YOUR EYES” refers to Visual Display Unit assessments, which typically involve eye examinations for individuals who regularly use computers or other digital screens, addressing potential eye strain and vision issues related to screen use.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com accept vision insurance?

While the website mentions a “Fees” page, it doesn’t explicitly state which vision insurance providers they accept on the homepage.

It’s advisable to check the “Fees” page or contact them directly for insurance-related inquiries.

How does Selbyandtaylor.com handle online security for personal information?

Selbyandtaylor.com likely uses standard web security protocols indicated by https:// in the URL for browsing.

For appointment booking, they redirect to a specialized third-party portal mysight.uk, which typically employs secure data handling practices for sensitive patient information.

What are some ethical alternatives to Selby & Taylor for eyewear?

Ethical alternatives include online retailers like Zenni Optical and Warby Parker for affordable and stylish eyewear, and established chains like Visionworks or Pearle Vision for comprehensive in-person services, focusing on direct sales and transparent pricing.

Can I get contact lenses from Selbyandtaylor.com?

Yes, “CONTACT LENSES” is listed as a primary service offered by Selby & Taylor Opticians, indicating they provide contact lens fittings, prescriptions, and likely follow-up care.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com offer hearing services?

Yes, the website lists “HEARING” as one of its main service categories, suggesting they provide audiology services in addition to their optical care.

What is the primary focus of Selbyandtaylor.com’s business?

The primary focus of Selbyandtaylor.com’s business is providing comprehensive, family-oriented optical and audiology healthcare services within their local communities of March and Chatteris, UK, emphasizing long-standing experience and personalized care.

Does Selbyandtaylor.com offer corporate eye care services?

Yes, Selbyandtaylor.com includes “CORPORATE” services among its offerings, suggesting they provide eye care solutions for businesses and their employees.