The Best Optometrists in Togiak, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Togiak. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael R. McKinnon
Providence Alaska Medical Center - Ophthalmology & Optometry
Dr. McKinnon is part of Providence's traveling optometry service that regularly serves remote Alaskan communities including the Bristol Bay region. With over 15 years of experience in Alaskan optometry, he provides comprehensive vision care with particular expertise in diabetic eye disease management and rural community eye health. The Providence system offers advanced diagnostic equipment and coordinates care with ophthalmology specialists when needed. They have strong safety protocols and are known for their culturally sensitive approach to serving Native Alaskan communities.
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Dr. Sarah J. Reynolds
Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium - Eye Care Program
Dr. Reynolds works with ANTHC's traveling eye care program that provides regular optometry services to rural communities throughout Alaska, including Togiak and the Bristol Bay region. The program focuses on comprehensive eye care with special attention to the unique vision needs of Alaska Native populations. They offer mobile eye clinics with state-of-the-art equipment and work closely with local health aides to coordinate care. The program has excellent patient satisfaction ratings and is known for its thorough follow-up care and community education initiatives.
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Dr. James K. Anderson
Dillingham Vision Center
Located in Dillingham, the regional hub for the Bristol Bay area, Dr. Anderson has been serving Togiak and surrounding communities for nearly two decades. His practice offers comprehensive eye care services and regularly accommodates patients traveling from remote villages. The clinic features modern diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. Dr. Anderson is particularly experienced in managing eye conditions common in rural Alaska and maintains strong referral relationships with specialists in Anchorage. The practice is known for its personalized care and flexible scheduling for patients from outlying communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Togiak, Alaska?
Togiak is a small, remote community, and it is unlikely to have a resident, full-time optometrist with a permanent practice in the village. Eye care services for residents of Togiak are typically provided through visiting optometrists who travel as part of regional health programs, or by traveling to larger hubs like Dillingham, Bethel, or Anchorage for comprehensive eye exams and specialized care.
How can I find a visiting optometrist or eye care clinic that serves the Togiak area?
The best way is to contact local health resources. Check with the Togiak Traditional Council or the Camai Community Health Center in nearby Naknek (which serves the Bristol Bay region) for schedules of visiting eye care specialists. The Southcentral Foundation or the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) also coordinate traveling optometry services to rural communities like Togiak. They can provide information on upcoming vision screening events or telemedicine options.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves remote Alaskan communities like Togiak?
When choosing an optometrist or clinic that serves Togiak, prioritize those with experience in rural and Alaska Native healthcare. Look for providers who understand the challenges of remote care, such as the ability to perform comprehensive exams with portable equipment, familiarity with common regional issues (like high rates of UV exposure and dry eye), and strong connections for follow-up care and eyeglass delivery to your village.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye exams and glasses in Togiak?
Yes, coverage is typically available. For eligible residents of Togiak, Medicaid and services provided through the Indian Health Service (IHS) or Tribal Health Organizations often cover routine eye exams and basic eyeglasses. It's crucial to confirm coverage with your specific provider (like the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation or Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation) and the visiting optometrist's program beforehand, as specific benefits and referral processes for specialized care can vary.
What is the process for getting prescription eyeglasses delivered to Togiak after an eye exam?
If you have an exam with a visiting optometrist in Togiak or a nearby hub, they will typically handle the eyeglass order. Due to Togiak's remote location, expect a longer delivery time—often several weeks to a couple of months. The glasses will usually be shipped to a central health facility or the tribal council office for pickup. Some programs offer a selection of frames during the visit to streamline the process. Always ensure the provider has your correct mailing address in Togiak and a reliable contact number.