The Best Optometrists in Brevig Mission, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Brevig Mission. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James K. Kincaid
Norton Sound Health Corporation
Dr. James K. Kincaid is a highly respected optometrist serving the Norton Sound region, including Brevig Mission, with over 15 years of experience. He is known for providing exceptional care in remote Alaskan communities, offering comprehensive eye exams, contact lens services, and specialized pediatric optometry. The practice emphasizes safety, with modern equipment and a focus on preventive care. Patients praise his compassionate approach and ability to address complex eye health issues in a challenging environment. The clinic is part of the Norton Sound Health Corporation, which has a strong track record of serving Indigenous and rural populations with high family satisfaction.
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Dr. John A. Caylor
Alaska Vision Center
Dr. John A. Caylor at Alaska Vision Center is a top-rated optometrist with two decades of experience, serving patients from Brevig Mission and across Alaska. He offers a wide range of services, including advanced LASIK co-management and emergency eye care, with a focus on safety and personalized treatment plans. The practice is praised for its state-of-the-art amenities, friendly staff, and high care quality, with numerous reviews highlighting family-friendly service and effective outcomes for various eye conditions. Established in 2000, the center has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in eye health.
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Dr. David A. Brown
Eye Care of Alaska
Dr. David A. Brown at Eye Care of Alaska is an established optometrist with 12 years of experience, providing reliable eye care services to residents of Brevig Mission and the Interior region. His practice specializes in comprehensive eye exams, glaucoma management, and dry eye treatments, with a strong emphasis on patient safety and education. The clinic is equipped with modern technology and has a track record of high family satisfaction, as reflected in positive reviews for thorough care and compassionate service. Founded in 2008, it has become a trusted option for remote communities seeking quality optometry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists physically located in Brevig Mission, Alaska?
No, there are no permanent optometrist offices located directly in Brevig Mission. As a small, remote community, residents must typically access eye care through visiting providers or by traveling to larger hubs. The closest options are usually in Nome, approximately 70 miles away, or through regional health organizations that schedule periodic visits to the area.
How can I schedule an eye exam in or near Brevig Mission?
Scheduling an eye exam requires planning due to the remote location. Your primary options are: 1) Contact the Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC) or the Brevig Mission Traditional Council to inquire about scheduled itinerant optometry clinics that visit the community. 2) Plan a trip to Nome, AK, where several optometry practices are located, and book an appointment in advance. It's crucial to call ahead, as travel and weather can affect availability.
What eye care services are typically available through visiting clinics in Brevig Mission?
Visiting optometrists to Brevig Mission, often arranged through tribal health or regional non-profits, typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and screenings for common eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. However, specialized services, immediate treatment for emergencies, or on-the-spot fabrication of glasses are usually not available, and follow-up or fulfillment of prescriptions may require mail order or another trip.
Does insurance or IHS (Indian Health Service) cover eye care for Brevig Mission residents?
Yes, for eligible beneficiaries, the Indian Health Service (IHS) and contracts with entities like Norton Sound Health Corporation often cover medically necessary eye exams and services. Coverage for routine vision exams and corrective lenses (glasses) can be more limited and may have specific eligibility criteria or require a referral. It is essential to verify your coverage directly with NSHC or your specific IHS unit before scheduling any appointment, whether with a visiting provider or in Nome.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist to visit in Nome from Brevig Mission?
When planning the trip to Nome, key considerations include: confirming the optometrist accepts your insurance (IHS/Medicaid/Private); checking their availability to align with your travel plans and weather windows; inquiring if they can handle any specific eye concerns you have to avoid multiple trips; and asking about their turnaround time for glasses, as you may need them mailed to Brevig Mission. Contacting the Norton Sound Health Corporation for a referral is often the most efficient first step.