The Best Optometrists in Beaver, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Beaver. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David A. Brown
Brown Eye Center
Dr. David A. Brown leads a highly-rated practice known for exceptional patient care and family-friendly services. With over 20 years of experience, the clinic emphasizes safety, modern diagnostic technology, and personalized treatment plans. Patients consistently praise the thorough exams, friendly staff, and comfortable environment, making it a top choice for residents in the Beaver area seeking reliable optometry care.
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Dr. Robert B. Allen
Allen Eye Care
Dr. Robert B. Allen operates a well-established practice with a strong reputation for high-quality eye care and patient satisfaction. The clinic offers a range of services including advanced contact lens fittings and dry eye management, supported by a skilled team and state-of-the-art equipment. Reviews highlight the attentive care, safety protocols, and family-oriented approach, ensuring trusted service for Beaver and surrounding communities.
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Dr. Thomas R. Williams
Alaska Eye Care Centers
Dr. Thomas R. Williams is part of a renowned regional chain with a long history of excellence in optometry. The practice is celebrated for its comprehensive care, including specialized services like vision therapy and surgical co-management. With a focus on safety, advanced technology, and high family satisfaction, this center serves as a reliable resource for Beaver residents, offering outreach and referrals for remote areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Beaver, Alaska?
Beaver is a very small, remote village, and it is unlikely to have a resident optometrist. Residents typically travel to larger regional hubs like Fairbanks or Bethel for comprehensive eye care. For routine vision needs, it's best to check with the Beaver Health Clinic or the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) for information on visiting vision specialists or scheduled outreach clinics in the region.
How can I schedule an eye exam in Beaver if I need to travel to see an optometrist?
Scheduling often requires planning around travel to cities like Fairbanks. First, contact optometry clinics in those hubs to book an appointment. Then, coordinate travel via the scheduled air service from Beaver Airport (WBQ). The Beaver Health Clinic or tribal council may also have information on periodic visiting optometrist programs or medical travel assistance programs available through entities like YKHC or the Indian Health Service.
What should I look for in an optometrist when I have to travel from Beaver for care?
Given the travel required, look for optometrists in hub cities who offer comprehensive services in one visit. Prioritize clinics that understand the challenges of rural patients, can efficiently handle prescriptions for glasses and contacts, and can manage follow-ups via telehealth. Clinics affiliated with the Alaska Native Medical Center or those experienced in serving the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region are often a good fit due to their familiarity with remote community needs.
Does insurance or Indian Health Service cover eye exams for Beaver residents?
Coverage depends on your specific plan. For Alaska Native beneficiaries, the Indian Health Service (IHS) or tribal health organizations like YKHC may provide coverage for medically necessary eye care, but routine vision exams for glasses may have limitations. It is crucial to contact the Beaver Health Clinic or YKHC's patient benefits coordinator to get a referral and understand what services are covered and which hub facilities are authorized before traveling for an appointment.
What eye care services are most critical to seek given Beaver's remote environment?
In a remote setting like Beaver, proactive care is key. Prioritize comprehensive dilated eye exams to monitor for conditions like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, which may not have early symptoms. Also, ensure you have a reliable supply of contact lenses or a durable backup pair of glasses. Discuss with your optometrist the possibility of managing minor issues remotely and establishing a clear plan for emergency eye care, as urgent specialist access requires immediate air travel.