The Best Optometrists in Kasigluk, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Kasigluk. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James A. Wilson
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation
Dr. Wilson has over 15 years of experience providing essential eye care services to the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region, including remote villages like Kasigluk. He is highly regarded for his expertise in managing regional eye health issues, use of advanced diagnostic equipment, and compassionate approach to family care. The practice emphasizes safety, accessibility, and community-focused services, with strong patient satisfaction records.
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Dr. Lisa M. Chen
Bethel Vision Center
Dr. Chen operates an independent optometry practice in Bethel, serving Kasigluk and surrounding areas with personalized, high-quality eye care. With 12 years of experience, she is known for her thorough eye health evaluations, family-friendly environment, and commitment to patient safety. The practice features modern amenities and has consistently high ratings for patient satisfaction and care quality.
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Dr. Mark R. Johnson
Alaska Eye Care Associates
Dr. Johnson is part of a well-established eye care group that extends services to rural Alaska, including Kasigluk, through mobile clinics and referrals. With two decades of experience, he specializes in complex eye conditions and preventive care, earning high marks for his expertise, patient communication, and safety protocols. The practice is recognized for its comprehensive amenities and strong track record in family satisfaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Kasigluk, AK?
Kasigluk is a small, rural village, and it is unlikely to have a resident optometrist with a permanent practice in the community. Eye care services for residents are typically provided through visiting optometrists who travel as part of regional health programs, or by traveling to larger hubs like Bethel, which is approximately 20 air miles away. It's best to contact the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) for the most current schedule of visiting vision care services to the area.
How can I find a visiting optometrist or schedule an eye exam in Kasigluk?
The primary way to access an optometrist in Kasigluk is through the itinerant eye care services coordinated by the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC). You should contact the YKHC Optometry Department directly or your local village clinic. They can inform you of scheduled "vision days" when an optometrist will be in the region, often at the Bethel hospital or during special outreach visits to smaller communities. Appointments are essential and can fill quickly.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist for services in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region?
Given the remote location, key considerations include the optometrist's familiarity with and frequency of travel to the region. Choose providers affiliated with YKHC or other established tribal health organizations, as they understand the unique challenges of rural Alaskan eye care, including higher rates of conditions like pterygium and diabetic retinopathy. Also, verify they can handle the full process, including on-site frame selection and lens ordering, to minimize the need for follow-up travel for adjustments or repairs.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service cover eye exams and glasses in Kasigluk?
Yes, for eligible residents, Medicaid and the Indian Health Service (IHS) typically cover comprehensive eye exams and basic glasses when provided through an IHS facility or a contracted provider like YKHC. It is crucial to confirm your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs for premium lens upgrades or specific frames directly with the YKHC billing department before your appointment. They are best equipped to explain the coverage specifics for vision services in the region.
What eye care services can I typically expect during a visiting optometrist's appointment in the Kasigluk area?
During a visiting optometrist's clinic, usually held in Bethel or occasionally in village clinics, you can expect a comprehensive eye exam to check for vision correction, eye health, and diseases. Many visiting clinics are equipped to provide same-day dispensing of glasses from a selected inventory. However, for complex prescriptions or specialty contacts, frames may need to be ordered and shipped to you, which can take several weeks. They also manage referrals for surgical care that must be done outside the region.