Robert W. Enzenauer MD, MPH in Chattanooga: Optometry with a Public Health Lens
Robert W. Enzenauer MD, MPH operates a general optometry practice in Chattanooga offering comprehensive eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lens fitting. His dual credential—MD (medical doctor) and MPH (master of public health)—signals expertise in the medical and preventive dimensions of eye care, distinguishing him within Chattanooga's optometry landscape where most providers hold OD (Doctor of Optometry) credentials.
What Dr. Enzenauer's Practice Offers
Enzenauer provides standard optometric services: dilated eye exams to screen for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy; refraction for glasses and contact lenses; and fitting of soft and rigid gas-permeable contacts. His medical degree—less common among Chattanooga optometrists—qualifies him to diagnose and manage ocular diseases and prescribe medications, roles traditionally reserved for ophthalmologists. The MPH credential reflects training in epidemiology and population health, suggesting a practice grounded in evidence and prevention rather than transaction-focused care alone. This combination is relevant for patients who want medical-level eye disease evaluation without necessarily seeing an ophthalmologist.
Services and Pricing
Specific pricing and insurance details for Enzenauer's practice are not publicly listed online in a way that allows confident statement here. Typical Chattanooga optometry practices charge $75 to $150 for a comprehensive eye exam (uninsured); glasses and contact lens fitting fees are usually separate from the exam and vary by complexity. Many insurers—including TennCare and major commercial plans available in Tennessee—cover annual eye exams at a copay or in-network rate. Contact Enzenauer's office directly to confirm current fees, accepted insurance, and whether he requires insurance pre-authorization or has out-of-pocket bundles for uninsured patients.
How This Practice Compares Locally
Chattanooga has two main optometry pathways: general optometrists (OD credential) and ophthalmologists (MD credential who specialize in eye surgery and disease). Enzenauer bridges that gap. A standard Chattanooga OD—such as practices at major chains or independent practices across the area—will handle routine exams and refraction capably and often with shorter wait times, since demand is high. An ophthalmologist (for example, those affiliated with Erlanger Health or private surgical centers) handles advanced disease, laser, and surgical cases but may have longer referral waits and higher out-of-pocket costs for consultations. Enzenauer's MD credential suggests he can manage eye disease medically and refer to surgery when needed, making him suitable for patients seeking depth in medical eye care without the scheduling delays or cost of a surgeon for non-surgical problems.
Who This Practice Suits and Who It Does Not
Enzenauer suits patients with a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or age-related eye disease who want thorough medical screening without a referral chain. Adults with presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), astigmatism, or myopia who need reliable refraction also fit well. Contact lens wearers—especially those who struggle with comfort or require specialty lenses—benefit from optometrists with hands-on fitting experience. He does not perform LASIK, cataract surgery, or other procedures; patients needing those services require an ophthalmology referral. Pediatric eye care is not emphasized in available information, so families with young children may need to confirm whether his practice accommodates pediatric exams and glasses fitting.
What the First Visit Involves
A new-patient exam typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes. Expect a health history (including questions about diabetes, hypertension, eye injury, and family eye disease), a visual acuity test, eye pressure measurement, dilated retinal exam, and refraction. If glasses or contacts are needed, the optometrist will take measurements and recommend options. Insurance cards and a list of current medications (especially blood-thinners and diabetes medications, which affect eye health) speed the process.
Hours, Location, and Logistics
Verify current office hours and address before visiting by calling ahead or checking online. Most Chattanooga optometry practices operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited Saturday availability; Enzenauer's schedule should be confirmed directly. Parking availability depends on office location; independent practices often have on-site lots, while multi-tenant offices may require street or lot parking.
Why This Matters in Chattanooga
Enzenauer's MD and MPH credentials offer Chattanooga residents a less common combination: the diagnostic capability of a physician-level eye care provider paired with a public health foundation, without the surgical focus or referral delays of ophthalmology. For patients managing chronic eye disease or seeking proactive screening, this practice fills a meaningful niche.
