The Best Optometrists in Sutton, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Sutton. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Steven C. Bailey
Mat-Su Eye Care
Dr. Steven C. Bailey at Mat-Su Eye Care is highly regarded for his extensive experience and patient-centered approach, serving the Sutton area with comprehensive eye care services. The practice emphasizes safety with modern diagnostic technology and has a strong record of family satisfaction, particularly in pediatric and senior eye health. With over two decades of operation, they offer personalized care, including advanced contact lens fittings and management of ocular diseases, backed by numerous positive reviews highlighting their thorough exams and friendly staff.
Services:
Dr. Karen L. Smith
Valley Eyecare Center
Dr. Karen L. Smith leads Valley Eyecare Center with a focus on compassionate and thorough eye care, making it a top choice for Sutton residents. The practice is known for its high safety standards, use of state-of-the-art equipment, and excellent family satisfaction ratings. Specializing in diabetic eye care and dry eye treatments, they provide tailored services for all ages. Founded in 2005, the center has built a reputation for reliability and community trust, with reviews often praising the staff's professionalism and the clarity of vision corrections.
Services:
Dr. Robert K. White
Alaska Eye Care Centers
Dr. Robert K. White at Alaska Eye Care Centers offers expert optometry services with a commitment to high-quality care and patient safety, extending to the Sutton area through their Anchorage location. The practice features a team of skilled professionals and advanced amenities, such as on-site optical labs and emergency care capabilities. With a foundation in 2008, they have consistently received positive feedback for their comprehensive exams and family-friendly environment. Reviews highlight their efficiency in handling complex cases and providing clear, educational guidance on eye health.
Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a local optometrist in or near Sutton, AK?
Given Sutton's small population, there are no optometrists directly within the town. Residents typically travel to the Mat-Su Valley or Anchorage for eye care. You can search for providers in nearby Palmer or Wasilla, which are about a 30-45 minute drive away. Many optometrists in these areas are familiar with serving patients from surrounding communities like Sutton. Checking with the Sutton Post Office or community board may also yield recommendations from neighbors.
What should I consider when choosing an optometrist as a Sutton resident?
For Sutton residents, travel logistics are a primary factor. Look for optometrists in Palmer, Wasilla, or even the Anchorage area who offer flexible scheduling, including full-day appointments, to accommodate longer travel times. Consider clinics with a wide range of services (comprehensive exams, contact lens fittings, treatment for eye diseases) to minimize the need for multiple referrals and trips. It's also wise to verify they accept your insurance and can handle prescription orders via phone or online for convenience.
Do optometrists in the Mat-Su Valley accept common insurance plans used by Sutton residents?
Yes, most optometry clinics in Palmer and Wasilla accept major insurance plans common in Alaska, including Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and Medicaid. However, it is crucial to verify coverage directly with the clinic before scheduling an appointment, as network participation can vary. Given the distance, calling ahead to confirm they are in-network with your specific plan can prevent unexpected costs and the hassle of a long drive for an out-of-network provider.
What eye care services are typically available at optometry clinics accessible from Sutton?
Optometrists in the larger Mat-Su Valley communities offer comprehensive services, including routine eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, diagnosis and management of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease, pediatric eye care, and emergency eye injury treatment. Some clinics also have optical shops on-site for immediate eyewear selection. Given the distance, many patients combine their exam and eyewear fitting into one visit, so choosing a clinic with a full-service optical department is often beneficial.
How far in advance should I schedule an eye appointment, and what if I have an eye emergency in Sutton?
For routine exams, schedule 2-4 weeks in advance, especially if you need a specific day or time to coordinate the trip to Palmer or Wasilla. For more urgent, non-life-threatening issues (like a sudden vision change or eye infection), call clinics directly as they may have same-day or next-day slots for urgent care. In a true eye emergency (chemical burn, sudden vision loss, severe injury), proceed immediately to the nearest emergency room, which for Sutton residents would likely be Mat-Su Regional Medical Center in Palmer or an Anchorage hospital. Always call the clinic or ER ahead if possible to alert them you are coming from a distance.