The Best Optometrists in Clear, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Clear. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Alaska Vision Center
Alaska Vision Center LLC
Alaska Vision Center is a highly-rated independent practice known for its exceptional patient care and use of advanced diagnostic technology. With an 18-year track record, they prioritize safety and thorough eye health evaluations, including specialized services for children and patients with diabetes. The practice has consistently high family satisfaction ratings due to its friendly staff, comprehensive approach, and commitment to serving remote communities like Clear. They offer a wide range of eyewear options and accept most insurance plans.
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Fairbanks Eye Care
Fairbanks Eye Care P.C.
Fairbanks Eye Care has built a strong reputation over 15 years for providing personalized, high-quality optometry services with a focus on patient safety and comfort. The practice is led by experienced optometrists who utilize state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses and treatments. They are particularly noted for their responsive emergency eye care and family-friendly approach, earning top marks in patient satisfaction surveys. Serving the Clear area, they emphasize accessibility and thorough follow-up care.
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Costco Optical
Costco Wholesale Corporation
Costco Optical in Fairbanks offers affordable, high-quality eye care with the convenience of a membership-based model, serving Clear and surrounding regions since 2011. Known for its excellent value and wide selection of frames and lenses, the practice maintains strong safety protocols and employs licensed optometrists for comprehensive exams. With high family satisfaction ratings, they provide efficient service, accept various vision plans, and are praised for their professionalism and customer-focused amenities, making them a reliable choice for routine and specialized vision needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Clear, Alaska?
Given Clear's small size and remote location, there are no optometrists directly within the community. Residents typically travel to larger hubs like Fairbanks (approximately 80 miles away) or the Mat-Su Valley for eye care. The most effective way is to search online for 'optometrist Fairbanks AK' or 'optometrist Wasilla AK', check with the Clear Community Council for any traveling specialist schedules, or ask for referrals at the Clear Space Force Station clinic or local general store. Planning appointments around other necessary trips to town is common practice.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in the Fairbanks area as a Clear resident?
When choosing an optometrist in Fairbanks, prioritize practices that understand the needs of patients from remote areas like Clear. Look for offices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate long-distance travel. It's also beneficial to find an optometrist who can handle a comprehensive range of services—from routine exams and contact lens fittings to managing dry eye (common in Alaska's interior climate) and detecting ocular diseases—minimizing the need for multiple referrals. Checking if they offer a robust optical shop on-site to fill prescriptions immediately after your exam can save you a second trip.
Do any optometrists or optical services travel to Clear, Alaska for clinics?
While not a regular service, occasional traveling vision clinics or outreach programs do serve remote Alaskan communities. Your best bet is to contact the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium or the Fairbanks Public Health Center to inquire about any scheduled vision screening events in the region. Additionally, the health clinic at Clear Space Force Station may have information on visiting specialists. For consistent care, however, planning a trip to a permanent practice in Fairbanks, North Pole, or Wasilla is the most reliable option.
How do I handle eye care emergencies living in a remote area like Clear, AK?
For true eye emergencies (sudden vision loss, severe injury, chemical burns), proceed immediately to the emergency room at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, which is the nearest full-service hospital. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, contact optometry offices in Fairbanks directly; many can often accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for emergencies. It's wise to have the contact information for a few Fairbanks practices saved. Also, discuss emergency protocols with your chosen optometrist during your routine visit so you know exactly who to call and what steps to follow.
What are the typical costs for an eye exam near Clear, and how does insurance work?
Eye exam costs in the Fairbanks area typically range from $100 to $150 for a comprehensive exam without insurance. As a Clear resident, it's crucial to verify that your vision or medical insurance plan is accepted by the optometrist you choose in Fairbanks before making the trip. Many Alaskans have plans through Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield or Aetna, which are widely accepted. Also, inquire about any travel or mileage considerations; while not common, some remote-area assistance programs might exist. Always confirm coverage for both the exam and any frames or lenses to avoid unexpected expenses, given the additional travel investment.