The Best Optometrists in Larsen Bay, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Larsen Bay. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. David A. Stout
Kodiak Eye Care Center
Kodiak Eye Care Center, led by Dr. David A. Stout, has been a trusted provider on Kodiak Island for over 15 years, offering high-quality, personalized eye care with modern diagnostic equipment. They serve Larsen Bay and other remote communities through scheduled visits and telehealth, with a strong focus on family-friendly services and patient safety. The practice is known for its thorough exams and excellent patient satisfaction ratings.
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Dr. Steven T. Phillips
Alaska Eye Care
Alaska Eye Care in Anchorage is a highly-rated practice with Dr. Steven T. Phillips providing expert care for over two decades. They offer comprehensive eye health services, including specialized treatments for rural Alaskans, and have a reputation for safety, staff qualifications, and patient-centered care. Residents of Larsen Bay can access their services through referrals or travel, supported by positive reviews and a long track record of community service.
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Dr. James R. Odom
Walmart Vision Center
The Walmart Vision Center in Anchorage, staffed by Dr. James R. Odom, provides affordable and reliable eye care with a focus on accessibility for families and remote communities like Larsen Bay. With over a decade of experience, the center offers convenient services, high safety standards, and positive patient feedback, making it a popular choice for those traveling from the Kodiak Island area for eye exams and optical needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Larsen Bay, Alaska?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice located directly in Larsen Bay. As a very small, remote community in the Kodiak Island Borough, residents must travel for comprehensive eye care. The closest options typically involve traveling to Kodiak City or arranging for visiting vision care services that occasionally serve the region.
How do people in Larsen Bay typically access eye exams and glasses?
Residents of Larsen Bay primarily access eye care through a few methods: traveling to Kodiak City (which involves a flight or boat), utilizing mobile vision clinics or outreach programs that may visit the Kodiak Island region periodically, or ordering glasses/contacts online with a valid prescription obtained during a trip. Some also coordinate care during necessary medical travel to Anchorage. It's important to plan ahead due to travel logistics and weather.
What should I look for in an optometrist when planning a trip from Larsen Bay to Kodiak or Anchorage?
When planning a necessary trip for eye care, prioritize optometrists in Kodiak or Anchorage who offer comprehensive services in one visit, as follow-ups are difficult. Look for practices that explicitly handle frame selection, lens ordering, and adjustments all in one appointment. Confirm they can expedite glasses shipping to Larsen Bay. Also, verify they accept your insurance (like Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium coverage if applicable) and have experience serving patients from remote communities.
Are there any special considerations for eye care in Larsen Bay's environment?
Yes, the environment in Larsen Bay and the Kodiak Archipelago presents unique considerations. High glare from water and snow makes polarized sunglasses and lenses with anti-reflective coatings particularly important. The long, dark winters and intense summer sunlight can affect visual comfort. Discuss these factors with your optometrist. Furthermore, dry eyes can be exacerbated by windy, coastal conditions and indoor heating, so treatments or specific eye drops may be recommended.
How can I find out about visiting optometry services or vision screening events near Larsen Bay?
To learn about visiting vision care services, contact the Larsen Bay Tribal Council or the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA), as they often have information on health outreach programs. The Kodiak Community Health Center may also schedule specialty clinics. Additionally, check with the Kodiak Island Borough School District for potential school-based vision screenings for children. Staying in touch with local community health aides is one of the best ways to get notified about upcoming opportunities.