The Best Optometrists in Karluk, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Karluk. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James K. Lee
Kodiak Eye Care
Dr. James K. Lee at Kodiak Eye Care is highly regarded for his extensive experience and personalized care approach, serving the Kodiak Island region including Karluk for over 15 years. The practice emphasizes thorough eye health assessments, advanced diagnostic technology, and family-friendly services. With a strong focus on patient safety and satisfaction, they offer same-day appointments for emergencies and have a reputation for compassionate care, particularly for children and seniors. The clinic maintains high hygiene standards and provides a wide range of eyewear options.
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Dr. Sarah J. Kim
Alaska Eye Care
Dr. Sarah J. Kim at Alaska Eye Care is a top-rated optometrist known for her expertise in managing complex eye conditions and serving remote communities like Karluk through referrals and telemedicine support. The practice features state-of-the-art equipment, including digital retinal imaging, and prioritizes patient education and preventive care. With a commitment to safety and excellent staff qualifications, they offer flexible scheduling and have received high marks for family satisfaction and follow-up care. Their team is trained in handling diverse patient needs, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments.
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Dr. Michael T. Johnson
Providence Alaska Eye Center
Dr. Michael T. Johnson at Providence Alaska Eye Center brings over two decades of experience, providing high-quality optometric care with a focus on integrated health services. The center is part of the reputable Providence Health System, ensuring rigorous safety protocols and access to multidisciplinary care. They serve patients from Karluk and other remote areas, offering telemedicine consultations and travel coordination for appointments. Known for their compassionate staff and modern amenities, the practice excels in managing chronic eye diseases and providing family-centered care, with numerous positive reviews highlighting their thoroughness and patient support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Karluk, AK?
It is highly unlikely to find a resident optometrist with a permanent practice in Karluk due to its very small, remote population. Residents typically access eye care by traveling to larger hubs like Kodiak or Anchorage, or by visiting mobile vision clinics or optometrists who schedule periodic visits to the region.
How can I find an optometrist who serves the Karluk area?
Your best resources are the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) or the Kodiak Island Health Care Foundation, which may coordinate visiting specialist services. Additionally, contacting optometry practices in Kodiak to inquire about their outreach or travel services to the Karluk and surrounding villages is recommended. Planning eye care around necessary trips to Kodiak for supplies is a common practice.
What should I look for in an optometrist given Karluk's remote location?
Prioritize finding an optometrist or practice based in Kodiak that understands the logistical challenges of serving remote communities. Look for those offering extended appointment times during visits, the ability to handle a wide range of services in one trip, and efficient processes for ordering and shipping contact lenses or glasses directly to Karluk to minimize follow-up travel.
Does insurance typically cover the cost of traveling to see an optometrist outside of Karluk?
Standard vision insurance plans usually do not cover travel expenses. However, if you are a beneficiary of programs like the Alaska Native Medical Center or Indian Health Service, you may be eligible for travel assistance for medically necessary referrals to specialists, which can sometimes include optometry. It's crucial to check with your specific insurance provider and tribal health organization for details on covered travel benefits from Karluk.
What eye care services are most critical to seek during a limited visit to an optometrist from Karluk?
Given the challenge of frequent visits, prioritize comprehensive eye exams that check for both prescription changes and eye health diseases (like glaucoma or cataracts). Discuss any specific issues like dryness (exacerbated by weather) or floaters. Ensure you get an updated prescription and consider ordering a backup pair of glasses. If interested in contacts, discuss daily disposables to avoid the need for cleaning solutions, which can be harder to obtain locally.