The Best Optometrists in Old Harbor, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Old Harbor. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. John A. Miller
Kodiak Eye Care
Dr. John A. Miller has been a trusted optometrist in the Kodiak Island region for over two decades, serving Old Harbor and surrounding communities with exceptional eye care. The practice is renowned for its high patient satisfaction, modern diagnostic technology, and comprehensive services including pediatric and geriatric optometry. With a strong focus on safety and personalized care, Kodiak Eye Care maintains excellent records and offers flexible scheduling for remote residents.
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Dr. Lisa M. White
Kodiak Vision Center
Dr. Lisa M. White leads Kodiak Vision Center with nearly 20 years of experience, providing reliable optometry services to Old Harbor and the broader Kodiak area. The center is praised for its friendly staff, thorough eye exams, and ability to handle emergencies, making it a top choice for families. They use advanced equipment for accurate diagnoses and prioritize patient education and safety, with many positive reviews highlighting their compassionate care.
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Dr. Robert S. Davis
Alaska Eye Care (Kodiak Branch)
Dr. Robert S. Davis is part of Alaska Eye Care, a reputable practice with a strong presence in Kodiak that serves Old Harbor residents. With 15 years in optometry, he specializes in complex conditions and offers a wide range of services, including sports vision and low vision aids. The practice is known for its high care standards, experienced team, and community outreach programs, ensuring accessible and quality eye care for all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in Old Harbor, AK?
Given Old Harbor's remote location on Kodiak Island, your best starting point is to check with the Old Harbor Community Health Clinic or the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) for referrals to visiting or regional eye care providers. You can also search online directories for optometrists in Kodiak, as they may schedule periodic visits to Old Harbor. For comprehensive or urgent care, residents often travel to Kodiak or Anchorage, so inquiring about travel-based services is common.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist who serves the Old Harbor area?
Key considerations include the provider's travel schedule to remote communities, their ability to handle emergencies remotely, and their familiarity with the challenges of rural Alaskan eye care (e.g., harsh light conditions, limited immediate follow-up). It's also important to verify if they accept your insurance (like Indian Health Service or other plans common in the region) and whether they can order glasses or contacts to be shipped directly to Old Harbor.
Are there optometrists in Old Harbor who accept Indian Health Service (IHS) or tribal insurance?
Yes, optometric care is often coordinated through tribal health organizations. The Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) is a primary resource for eye care services covered under IHS or tribal contracts. They can provide information on approved optometrists who visit the region or arrange for referrals and travel to contracted providers in Kodiak or Anchorage. Always confirm coverage directly with KANA before scheduling an appointment.
How do I schedule an eye exam in Old Harbor if there isn't a full-time optometrist in town?
Scheduling typically involves contacting the Old Harbor Community Health Clinic or KANA. They maintain schedules for visiting specialists, including optometrists who fly in periodically. You may be placed on a waitlist for the next visiting clinic. For more immediate or specialized needs, they can help coordinate a referral and travel arrangements to an optometrist in Kodiak, which may involve a flight or ferry.
What eye care services are typically available through visiting optometrists in Old Harbor?
Visiting optometrists usually provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and screenings for common conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease. Due to travel limitations, they may have portable diagnostic equipment. However, services like immediate glasses fitting or complex treatments often require a trip to a larger city. The visiting providers can diagnose issues and then facilitate referrals for any necessary surgical or advanced care in Anchorage.