The Best Optometrists in Anaktuvuk Pass, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Anaktuvuk Pass. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Thomas R. Quimby
Quimby Eye Care
Dr. Quimby has over 18 years of experience providing high-quality, family-focused eye care with a strong emphasis on safety and patient satisfaction. The practice uses advanced diagnostic technology and offers personalized services, including outreach to remote communities like Anaktuvuk Pass through scheduled visits and telemedicine options. Patients consistently praise the thorough exams, friendly staff, and excellent follow-up care.
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Dr. David M. Ketchum
Alaska Eye Care Centers
With over two decades of service, Dr. Ketchum leads a team known for comprehensive eye care, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust safety protocols. The practice has a strong track record of family satisfaction and participates in regional outreach programs, serving rural areas including Anaktuvuk Pass. Reviews highlight their expertise in managing complex conditions, modern amenities, and compassionate staff.
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Dr. John P. Davis
Davis Eye Care
Dr. Davis has built a reputation for reliable, patient-centered care over 15 years, with a focus on family-friendly services and safety. The practice is equipped with modern technology and offers flexible scheduling, including support for patients from remote locations like Anaktuvuk Pass. High satisfaction ratings reflect their attentive staff, clear communication, and effective treatment plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Anaktuvuk Pass, or will I need to travel?
There are no resident optometrists permanently located within Anaktuvuk Pass. Residents typically access eye care through visiting optometrists who travel to the community on a scheduled basis (often through programs like the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium) or by traveling to larger hubs like Fairbanks. It's essential to check with the Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital clinic or local tribal health organization for the schedule of visiting eye care providers.
How can I find out when a visiting optometrist will be in Anaktuvuk Pass?
The best way is to contact the Anaktuvuk Pass Clinic or the Maniilaq Association (which serves the region) directly. They coordinate itinerant health services, including optometry. Announcements are also often made through community bulletin boards, the local tribal council, or via VHF radio. Planning ahead is crucial, as visits may be scheduled only a few times a year.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves remote communities like Anaktuvuk Pass?
Look for an optometrist or clinic experienced in remote Alaskan service. Key factors include: the ability to perform comprehensive exams with portable equipment, experience diagnosing and managing conditions prevalent in the region (like pterygium or dry eye from sun and wind), understanding of travel logistics for follow-up or eyeglass delivery, and familiarity with insurance plans common in the area, such as Indian Health Service or Medicaid.
If I need prescription eyeglasses after an exam in Anaktuvuk Pass, how long will delivery take?
Delivery times can be significantly longer than in urban areas. After your exam with a visiting optometrist, your eyeglass order is typically placed and then shipped to the community. Due to Anaktuvuk Pass's remote location and reliance on air freight, expect a wait of several weeks to a few months. Some visiting providers may bring a limited selection of frames and lenses for same-day dispensing, but this is not guaranteed. Always discuss the timeline and process with the provider at your appointment.
Does insurance like Indian Health Service (IHS) cover optometry services in Anaktuvuk Pass?
Yes, services provided by optometrists through the tribal health system (like those arranged by Maniilaq Association or ANTHC) are typically covered for eligible beneficiaries. This often includes the eye exam and may contribute toward the cost of eyeglasses. It is vital to confirm your eligibility and coverage specifics with the clinic administrator before your appointment. For services obtained by traveling to Fairbanks, ensure the optometrist's office accepts and can bill your specific IHS or other insurance plan.