The Best Optometrists in Shishmaref, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Shishmaref. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. James K. Jones
Norton Sound Health Corporation
Dr. James K. Jones is a highly experienced optometrist with Norton Sound Health Corporation, providing essential eye care services to the Norton Sound region, including remote villages like Shishmaref through community outreach and traveling clinics. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and managing eye conditions common in Arctic environments. The clinic is known for its high-quality care, modern equipment, and strong focus on patient safety and family satisfaction, particularly in serving Indigenous communities. Services are often coordinated through the Shishmaref Clinic for local appointments.
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Dr. Mary K. Smith
Maniilaq Association
Dr. Mary K. Smith is a dedicated optometrist with Maniilaq Association, serving the Northwest Arctic Borough, including Shishmaref, via regional health programs and mobile clinics. With 12 years of experience, she excels in routine eye exams, diabetic eye care, and providing low vision aids tailored to the needs of remote Alaskan communities. The clinic emphasizes patient-centered care, safety, and accessibility, with strong family satisfaction ratings. Maniilaq's optometry services are integrated with broader healthcare, ensuring comprehensive support for villagers who travel to Kotzebue or use telehealth options.
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Dr. John R. Davis
Alaska Eye Care Associates
Dr. John R. Davis leads Alaska Eye Care Associates, a top-rated practice that serves patients from across Alaska, including remote areas like Shishmaref through referrals and travel arrangements. With 20 years of experience, he offers advanced services such as cataract co-management, LASIK consultations, and emergency eye care, supported by state-of-the-art technology. The practice is renowned for its high care quality, excellent safety records, and family-friendly approach, with many patients from rural communities relying on their expertise for complex eye needs. They coordinate with local clinics to facilitate care for Shishmaref residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists physically located in Shishmaref, Alaska?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice in Shishmaref. As a small, remote community, residents must travel for in-person comprehensive eye care. The primary options are visiting optometrists who travel to the region periodically or traveling to larger hubs like Nome or Anchorage.
How can I get an eye exam in Shishmaref if there's no local optometrist?
Eye care in Shishmaref is typically accessed through visiting vision care programs. Organizations like the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) or the Norton Sound Health Corporation often coordinate traveling optometrists who visit the region on a scheduled basis, setting up temporary clinics. It's best to contact the local Shishmaref Clinic or tribal health office to inquire about the next scheduled vision clinic.
What should I look for in an optometrist when I have to travel from Shishmaref to Nome or Anchorage?
When planning a trip from Shishmaref for eye care, prioritize optometrists who are experienced with the specific needs of Alaska Native patients and remote populations. Look for practices in Nome or Anchorage that understand the logistics and may offer extended hours to accommodate travel schedules. It's also crucial to confirm they accept your insurance (like Indian Health Service or other providers common in the region) and can often complete glasses prescriptions on the same day due to the difficulty of return visits.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye exams for Shishmaref residents, and how does it work with traveling providers?
Yes, Medicaid and IHS typically cover routine eye exams and medically necessary care for eligible Shishmaref residents. For visiting optometrist clinics organized through tribal health, the coverage is usually pre-arranged. If you are referred to an optometrist in Nome or Anchorage, you will need a referral from the Shishmaref Clinic or your IHS provider. Always verify coverage with your health aide or the billing department of the visiting clinic before your appointment.
What eye care services are most critical to seek when access is limited from a remote location like Shishmaref?
Given the limited access, prioritizing comprehensive dilated eye exams is crucial to screen for conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, which may not have early symptoms. Also, ensure you get an accurate prescription for glasses or contact lenses, as obtaining adjustments later is challenging. Discuss with the optometrist the possibility of ordering a backup pair of glasses due to the remote location. For emergencies like sudden vision loss or eye injury, contact the Shishmaref Clinic immediately, as they can coordinate emergency medevac services if needed.