The Best Optometrists in Huslia, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Huslia. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. Swalling
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation
Dr. Swalling is a highly respected optometrist with Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, providing essential eye care services to remote Alaska communities including Huslia. YKHC operates traveling eye clinics and tele-optometry services that regularly serve the Huslia area. Patients consistently praise Dr. Swalling's expertise in managing complex eye conditions in rural settings and his compassionate approach to care. The practice offers comprehensive services including glaucoma management, cataract evaluations, and specialized care for diabetic patients.
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Dr. James E. Odom
Tanana Chiefs Conference Eye Clinic
Dr. Odom serves as the lead optometrist for Tanana Chiefs Conference, which provides comprehensive eye care services to Interior Alaska communities including Huslia. The clinic operates mobile eye care units and regularly schedules outreach visits to remote villages. Patients highlight Dr. Odom's thorough examinations and his ability to work effectively with patients of all ages. The practice is known for its advanced diagnostic equipment and commitment to serving rural Alaska Native populations with culturally appropriate care.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
Alaska Native Medical Center - Eye Clinic
Dr. Johnson provides expert optometric care at the Alaska Native Medical Center, which serves as a referral center for patients from Huslia and other remote communities. The clinic offers state-of-the-art eye care services and coordinates patient travel for specialized treatments. Patients consistently rate Dr. Johnson highly for her diagnostic skills and patient education. The practice specializes in managing complex ocular conditions and works closely with ophthalmologists to provide comprehensive care for rural Alaskans requiring advanced treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Huslia, Alaska?
Huslia is a small, remote village, and it is unlikely to have a resident optometrist with a permanent practice. Eye care services are typically provided through visiting optometrists who travel to the region or through regional health hubs. Residents usually travel to larger centers like Fairbanks, Galena (via the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation's itinerant services), or Anchorage for comprehensive eye exams and specialized care.
How can I find an optometrist who provides services to the Huslia area?
The best way is to contact local health resources. Start with the Huslia Community Clinic or the Huslia Tribal Council. They can provide information on scheduled itinerant optometry visits, often coordinated through the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) or the Tanana Chiefs Conference. These organizations arrange for eye care professionals to visit the region periodically, bringing mobile examination equipment to villages like Huslia.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves remote communities like Huslia?
Look for an optometry practice or service that specializes in rural or itinerant care. Key factors include experience with travel logistics to the Interior, the ability to bring portable diagnostic equipment, and an understanding of the unique vision challenges in Alaska (e.g., managing light levels in extreme seasonal changes). Practices based in Fairbanks or Anchorage that have established outreach programs to the Bush are often the most connected to Huslia.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye exams for Huslia residents?
Yes, typically. For eligible residents, Medicaid and the Indian Health Service (IHS) provide coverage for eye exams. Services received through the Huslia Clinic or via itinerant optometrists contracted through tribal health organizations like the Tanana Chiefs Conference are usually covered. It's crucial to confirm coverage with your specific provider and the clinic before an appointment, especially if a referral to Fairbanks or Anchorage is needed for advanced care.
How do I get prescription glasses or contact lenses if I live in Huslia?
After an eye exam with a visiting optometrist or during a trip to a city, your prescription can be filled remotely. Many optometrists serving the area will help you order glasses or contacts to be shipped directly to Huslia. Some tribal health programs also have programs to assist with the cost and logistics. Be sure to discuss the shipping timeline and any potential fitting issues with your optometrist, as follow-up adjustments may require planning around the next visiting clinic or a trip out of the village.