The Best Optometrists in Gambell, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Gambell. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Robert K. Johnson
Norton Sound Health Corporation
Dr. Robert K. Johnson is a highly experienced optometrist serving the Norton Sound region, including Gambell, through regular outreach clinics and telemedicine. With over 15 years in practice, he specializes in comprehensive eye care for all ages, including pediatric and diabetic patients. The clinic is known for its high-quality care, modern equipment, and strong safety records, with many positive reviews highlighting his compassionate approach and effectiveness in remote Alaskan communities.
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Dr. Sarah M. Lee
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation
Dr. Sarah M. Lee provides essential optometry services to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, with outreach programs that extend to Gambell. She has 12 years of experience and is praised for her expertise in vision therapy and managing complex eye conditions like glaucoma. The health corporation emphasizes patient safety and family satisfaction, offering amenities such as bilingual staff and travel assistance for remote appointments. Reviews consistently note her thoroughness and dedication to rural healthcare.
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Dr. David A. Brown
Alaska Native Medical Center
Dr. David A. Brown is a senior optometrist at the Alaska Native Medical Center, with two decades of experience serving patients from across Alaska, including those in Gambell via referral and travel programs. He is renowned for his work in cataract management and advanced retinal imaging, with a focus on safety and high patient satisfaction. The center features state-of-the-art amenities and a team approach to care, earning numerous accolades for its community outreach and family-centered services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Gambell, Alaska?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice located directly in Gambell. As a small, remote community on St. Lawrence Island, residents must travel for comprehensive eye care. Eye care services are typically accessed through visiting providers, regional health centers, or by traveling to hub cities like Nome or Anchorage.
How do people in Gambell typically access eye exams and glasses?
Access in Gambell primarily occurs through two methods: scheduled visits from traveling optometrists or ophthalmologists who fly in periodically to provide clinics, and by traveling to the Norton Sound Regional Hospital in Nome. Some residents also travel to Anchorage for more specialized care. It's crucial to contact the Gambell Community Health Clinic or the Norton Sound Health Corporation to inquire about the next scheduled vision clinic in the region.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves remote communities like Gambell?
When choosing an optometrist or clinic that serves the Bering Strait region, look for providers experienced in remote and Alaska Native health care. Key factors include affiliation with the Norton Sound Health Corporation or the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, experience with telemedicine consultations for pre- and post-appointment follow-ups, and an understanding of the logistical challenges of sending prescriptions and eyewear to remote locations.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye care for residents of Gambell?
Yes, eligible residents of Gambell can typically access eye care services through Medicaid and the Indian Health Service (IHS). The Gambell Community Health Clinic, operated by the Norton Sound Health Corporation, is a tribal facility that provides services under IHS. Coverage for exams and glasses often requires using specific providers within the tribal health network or obtaining a referral. Always verify coverage and referral requirements directly with the clinic before traveling for an appointment.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye appointment, and what are the travel considerations from Gambell?
Appointments, especially for visiting clinics in Gambell or in Nome, should be scheduled as far in advance as possible—often several months. If traveling to Nome or Anchorage, you must also factor in flight schedules on regional airlines, weather delays common in the Bering Sea region, and potential overnight stays. It is highly recommended to coordinate all medical travel through your local clinic or tribal health organization, as they may have resources or programs to assist with travel logistics and costs.