The Best Optometrists in Noatak, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Noatak. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Maniilaq Optometry Clinic
Maniilaq Association
The Maniilaq Optometry Clinic is the primary eye care provider for the Northwest Arctic Borough, directly serving Noatak and other remote villages. With over 15 years of dedicated service, they offer comprehensive eye exams using advanced diagnostic equipment, a wide selection of eyewear, and personalized vision therapy. Known for their high care quality, cultural sensitivity, and strong family satisfaction, the clinic operates with a focus on community health and safety, making it a top choice for residents.
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Alaska Native Medical Center Eye Clinic
Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium
The ANMC Eye Clinic provides specialized optometry services to Alaska Native populations statewide, including residents of Noatak through referrals and travel programs. With two decades of experience, they offer state-of-the-art eye care, including pediatric and low vision services, backed by a team of highly qualified optometrists. Renowned for their excellent safety records, patient-centered approach, and high ratings, they ensure accessible and comprehensive care for remote communities.
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Norton Sound Health Corporation Optometry Clinic
Norton Sound Health Corporation
Serving the Norton Sound and broader regions, this clinic extends optometry services to areas like Noatak through regional health networks and outreach programs. With 12 years of operation, they provide reliable eye exams, vision correction, and emergency care, emphasizing patient safety and family satisfaction. Their experienced staff and commitment to quality make them a trusted option for those in need of eye care in rural Alaska.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Noatak, Alaska?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice located directly in Noatak. Due to its remote location, eye care is typically provided through visiting optometrists who travel to the region periodically or through regional health clinics that may host vision care events. Residents often travel to Kotzebue or larger hubs for comprehensive eye exams.
How can I find out when a visiting optometrist will be in the Noatak or Kotzebue area?
The best way is to contact the Maniilaq Association, which provides health services in the Northwest Arctic Borough. They often schedule and announce visiting specialist clinics, including optometry. You can also check with the Kotzebue-based Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital or local community health aides in Noatak, as they are usually informed of upcoming itinerant eye care services in the region.
What specific eye care services should I expect from a visiting optometrist in this region?
Visiting optometrists to the Noatak region typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and screenings for common conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the high reflectivity of snow and ice, they often pay special attention to assessing and addressing issues related to UV exposure and dry eye. Some may also manage minor eye infections or injuries, with referrals for serious conditions to ophthalmologists in Anchorage or Fairbanks.
Does insurance like Medicaid or Medicare cover eye exams with optometrists in remote Alaska?
Yes, Medicaid (including DenaliCare in Alaska) and Medicare typically cover medically necessary eye exams. For visits with itinerant optometrists contracted through tribal health organizations like Maniilaq, services are often covered for eligible beneficiaries. It's crucial to verify your coverage with the specific provider or clinic beforehand. Many visiting eye care programs to villages like Noatak are designed to be accessible and affordable for residents, often working directly with tribal health benefits.
What is the best way to get prescription eyeglasses after an exam in a remote location like Noatak?
After your exam with a visiting optometrist, you can usually order glasses directly through them. They will take your measurements and have the glasses mailed to you in Noatak. Some programs may have a selection of frames on hand for immediate ordering. Alternatively, you can take your prescription to a larger optical center in Kotzebue, or use a reputable online retailer that ships to remote addresses. Be sure to discuss the shipping timeline and costs with the provider during your visit.