The Best Optometrists in Girdwood, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Girdwood. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Steven R. White
Alaska Eye Care Center
Alaska Eye Care Center is a highly-rated practice known for its exceptional vision care and patient-centered approach. Dr. White has 18 years of experience and leads a team dedicated to comprehensive eye exams, advanced contact lens solutions, and pediatric eye care. The clinic boasts a strong safety record, modern diagnostic technology, and high family satisfaction, making it a trusted choice for Girdwood residents seeking quality optometric services.
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Dr. Lisa M. Johnson
Anchorage Vision Clinic
Anchorage Vision Clinic provides top-tier optometric care with a focus on safety and patient comfort. Dr. Johnson brings 12 years of expertise in routine and emergency eye care, including sports vision and low vision aids. The clinic is praised for its qualified staff, family-friendly amenities, and consistent high ratings in care quality, serving the Girdwood area with reliability and excellence.
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Dr. James K. Lee
Eye Care of Alaska
Eye Care of Alaska is a premier optometry practice recognized for its comprehensive services and outstanding patient satisfaction. Dr. Lee has 20 years of experience in full-scope optometry, including diabetic eye exams and dry eye management. The practice emphasizes safety, advanced technology, and a welcoming environment, making it a preferred option for families in Girdwood and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Girdwood, Alaska?
Girdwood is a small community, and there are typically no full-time, standalone optometry practices located directly within the town. Residents usually travel to Anchorage, which is about a 40-minute drive north via the Seward Highway, for comprehensive eye care. Some mobile optical services or visiting specialists may occasionally offer clinics in the area, so checking with the Girdwood Health Clinic or local community boards for announcements is recommended.
How do I find an optometrist in the Anchorage area that serves Girdwood residents?
Most Girdwood residents seek optometrists in Anchorage. You can search online directories for Anchorage optometrists, filtering for those who accept your insurance. It's also helpful to ask for recommendations from the Girdwood Clinic, local pharmacies, or community Facebook groups like 'Girdwood, Alaska Community' where neighbors often share experiences with healthcare providers in the region, including which clinics are accustomed to patients traveling from the Turnagain Arm.
What should I consider when choosing an Anchorage optometrist as a Girdwood resident?
Given the travel involved, key considerations include appointment availability that accommodates your travel schedule (e.g., later appointments or consolidated services), the optometrist's policy on handling emergencies for distant patients, and whether they offer telehealth consultations for follow-ups. Also, inquire if they have an on-site optical lab to minimize return trips for glasses, and check their hours to align with your drive, especially during winter road conditions on the Seward Highway.
Do any optometrists in Alaska accept vision plans commonly used in Girdwood?
Yes, most optometry practices in Anchorage accept major vision insurance plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Davis Vision, which are common in Alaska. It is crucial to verify participation with your specific plan before scheduling an appointment. When calling, mention you are a Girdwood resident to confirm they are in-network for your plan and to discuss any potential travel-related considerations for coverage of services or materials.
What eye care services are most important to look for given Girdwood's environment?
Girdwood's environment—with bright summer sunlight reflecting off glaciers and snow, and extended periods of winter darkness—makes certain services particularly valuable. Look for an optometrist experienced in managing conditions related to UV exposure, such as cataracts and pterygium, and one who can expertly prescribe sunglasses with high-quality UV protection and polarized lenses for glare reduction. Additionally, consider practices that offer expertise in diagnosing and treating issues related to dry eyes, which can be exacerbated by indoor heating during long winters.