The Best Optometrists in Pilot Station, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Pilot Station. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Thomas R. Berger
Alaska Eye Care Center
Dr. Berger is a highly respected optometrist with over two decades of experience, known for his exceptional care quality and use of advanced diagnostic technology. He serves patients from across Alaska, including rural areas like Pilot Station, through referrals and telemedicine support. His practice emphasizes family-friendly services, with a strong track record in safety and patient satisfaction, particularly for children and seniors.
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Dr. Robert K. Johnson
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation Eye Clinic
Dr. Johnson is a key provider for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region, offering essential optometry services to remote communities like Pilot Station through regular outreach clinics. With high ratings for care quality and safety, he specializes in managing eye conditions prevalent in rural Alaska, such as diabetic retinopathy. His team is praised for compassionate care and accessibility, making them a top choice for families in the area.
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Dr. Jennifer A. Davis
Arctic Optical
Dr. Davis has built a reputation for reliable and thorough eye care, with services extending to rural Alaskan communities via mobile clinics and partnerships. She focuses on patient education and preventive care, earning high marks for family satisfaction and staff professionalism. Her practice incorporates modern amenities and safety protocols, ensuring comfortable experiences for all ages, and she frequently serves patients from regions like Pilot Station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Pilot Station, AK?
Pilot Station is a very small, remote community, and it is unlikely to have a resident optometrist with a permanent practice. Residents typically access eye care through visiting optometrists who travel as part of regional health programs, or by traveling to larger hubs like Bethel or Anchorage for comprehensive eye exams and services.
How can I find out when a visiting optometrist will be in the Pilot Station area?
The best way is to contact the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) in Bethel, which coordinates healthcare services for the region. They can provide schedules for their traveling optometry and ophthalmology teams that serve village clinics. Also, check with the local Pilot Station Tribal Council or community health clinic, as they often post announcements for visiting specialist schedules.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves remote communities like Pilot Station?
When choosing an optometrist through a traveling service or in a hub city, look for one experienced in serving rural Alaska. They should understand the unique challenges, such as limited follow-up visits and environmental factors like extreme light reflection. It's also beneficial if they work closely with a network that can handle eyeglass orders and shipments directly to your community after your exam.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye exams for residents of Pilot Station?
Yes, typically. For eligible residents, Medicaid and the IHS contract health program often cover routine eye exams and medically necessary vision care. Services provided through YKHC or at an IHS-funded facility are usually covered. It's crucial to confirm coverage with the specific provider or YKHC's patient benefits office before an appointment, especially if a referral to Anchorage is needed.
What eye care services are most critical to seek during a limited visit from an optometrist in Pilot Station?
Prioritize a comprehensive dilated eye exam to check for overall eye health, which is vital for detecting conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the high cost and delay in receiving glasses, ensure your prescription is accurate. Discuss any specific issues like dryness (from indoor heating) or snow glare discomfort. Also, ask about a sufficient supply of any prescribed medicated eye drops, as refills may be difficult until the next visit.