The Best Optometrists in Skagway, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Skagway. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. Dunlap
Dunlap Eye Care
Dr. Michael J. Dunlap has been a trusted optometrist in Southeast Alaska for over two decades, serving patients from Skagway and beyond. His practice is renowned for thorough, personalized eye care using advanced diagnostic technology. He emphasizes family-friendly services, including pediatric optometry and a wide selection of eyewear. Patients consistently praise his compassionate approach and commitment to eye health, with high ratings for safety and satisfaction. The clinic is easily accessible for Skagway residents via ferry or flight to Juneau.
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Dr. David A. Brown
Brown Eye Care
Dr. David A. Brown operates a well-established practice in Juneau, serving the Southeast Alaska region, including Skagway. With nearly 20 years of experience, he specializes in vision therapy and emergency eye care, supported by modern equipment and a skilled team. His clinic is noted for its high safety standards, patient-centered approach, and positive family feedback. Residents of Skagway often travel to Juneau for his expertise, and the practice offers flexible scheduling to accommodate remote communities.
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Dr. John A. Gardner
Juneau Vision Center
Dr. John A. Gardner leads Juneau Vision Center, a highly-rated practice known for comprehensive eye care services accessible to Skagway residents. With over 15 years in optometry, he focuses on diabetic eye care and low vision solutions, utilizing cutting-edge technology for accurate diagnoses. The center boasts excellent amenities, a friendly staff, and strong family satisfaction records. Its central Juneau location makes it a convenient option for Southeast Alaskans, with many reviews highlighting the practice's reliability and care quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Skagway, Alaska?
Skagway is a small, remote community, and there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice in town. For comprehensive eye exams and eyewear, residents typically travel to larger cities in Southeast Alaska like Juneau, which is accessible by air or the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. Some mobile vision clinics or visiting optometrists may offer periodic services, so checking with local health centers or community boards is recommended.
How can I find an optometrist near Skagway that accepts my vision insurance?
Since you will likely need to seek care outside Skagway, start by using your insurance provider's online directory to find in-network optometrists in Juneau or other accessible Southeast Alaskan hubs. When contacting those offices, confirm they still accept your specific plan. Also, inquire with the Skagway Traditional Council or the local Dahl Memorial Clinic, as they may have information on visiting providers or programs that assist with travel and coverage for specialized medical services, including eye care.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist to visit from Skagway?
Given the travel required, prioritize optometrists who offer comprehensive services in one visit. Look for practices in Juneau that provide full eye exams, a wide selection of frames, and on-site lens fabrication to minimize return trips. Check reviews from other Southeast Alaska residents and consider the optometrist's experience with conditions prevalent in the region, such as issues related to long daylight hours in summer or dry, windy conditions. Also, verify their appointment availability to align with ferry or flight schedules.
Are there emergency eye care services available in Skagway?
For true eye emergencies, the Dahl Memorial Clinic in Skagway is the primary resource for initial assessment and stabilization. However, for specialized optometric or ophthalmologic care, urgent cases will likely require medevac to a hospital in Juneau or Anchorage. It's crucial to have a plan and know your insurance coverage for emergency medical transport. For non-urgent but concerning issues, contact clinics in Juneau to explain your situation; some may be able to accommodate expedited appointments for patients traveling from remote locations.
Can I order contact lenses or glasses online if I live in Skagway?
Yes, ordering eyewear online is a common and practical solution for Skagway residents. However, you will first need a current prescription from an optometrist. After traveling for an exam, you can request a copy of your prescription. When ordering online, account for potential shipping delays to remote Alaska. Some online retailers offer programs for easy re-ordering of contact lenses. For glasses, ensure you have accurate pupillary distance (PD) measurements, which your optometrist can provide during your exam.