The Best Optometrists in Point Hope, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Point Hope. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James K. Lee
Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital
Dr. James K. Lee is a highly respected optometrist serving the North Slope Borough, including Point Hope, through Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in rural and remote eye care, offering comprehensive services with a focus on diabetic and pediatric optometry. The practice is known for its excellent patient satisfaction, strong safety records, and commitment to accessible care for Alaska Native communities. Patients appreciate the personalized approach and use of modern diagnostic equipment.
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Dr. Michael J. O'Malley
Alaska Vision Center
Dr. Michael J. O'Malley at Alaska Vision Center is a top-rated optometrist with two decades of experience, serving patients across Alaska, including those in Point Hope through outreach and tele-optometry services. The practice excels in family-friendly care, with high ratings for safety, staff qualifications, and state-of-the-art amenities like digital retinal imaging. Known for thorough eye exams and a wide selection of eyewear, they have a strong track record of patient satisfaction and community trust.
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Dr. Sarah K. Johnson
Eye Care of Alaska
Dr. Sarah K. Johnson at Eye Care of Alaska brings 18 years of expertise in optometry, with services extending to remote areas like Point Hope via traveling clinics and virtual consultations. The practice is renowned for its comprehensive care, including vision therapy and management of ocular diseases, with a emphasis on family satisfaction and safety. Patients consistently praise the attentive staff, modern facilities, and Dr. Johnson's ability to handle complex eye conditions with compassion and skill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Point Hope, AK?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice located directly in Point Hope. Due to its remote location, residents typically access eye care through visiting optometrists who travel to the community periodically or by traveling to larger hubs like Kotzebue or Anchorage for comprehensive eye exams and services.
How can I find out when a visiting optometrist will be in Point Hope?
The best way is to contact the local Point Hope Health Clinic or the Maniilaq Association, which provides health services to the region. They often schedule and announce visiting specialist clinics, including optometry. Checking community bulletin boards, the tribal council office, and local radio announcements is also essential, as these are primary methods of communication for such events in Point Hope.
What eye care services are typically available during a visiting optometrist's clinic in Point Hope?
Visiting optometrists to Point Hope usually provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and screenings for common eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Due to travel constraints, they may bring a limited selection of frames. For complex issues or procedures like dilation for retinal exams, they will coordinate referrals to facilities in Kotzebue or Anchorage.
Does insurance like Medicaid or Medicare cover eye exams with visiting optometrists in Point Hope?
Yes, Medicaid (through the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium/ANTHC or other providers) and Medicare typically cover medically necessary eye exams. It is crucial to verify with the visiting clinic's coordinator or your insurance provider beforehand. The Maniilaq Association can often assist with navigating coverage and any potential travel benefits for necessary follow-up care outside the community.
What should I consider when choosing to see a visiting optometrist versus traveling to one in Kotzebue or Anchorage?
For routine care, a visiting optometrist in Point Hope is the most convenient and cost-effective option, avoiding expensive air travel. However, for complex issues, specialized contact lens fittings, or a wider selection of frames, planning a trip to a full-service clinic in Kotzebue (like the Maniilaq Health Center) or Anchorage may be necessary. Consider the urgency of your need, the scope of services required, and consult with your primary care provider at the Point Hope clinic for guidance.