The Best Optometrists in Tununak, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Tununak. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael J. Rizzuti
Alaska Native Medical Center
Dr. Michael J. Rizzuti is a board-certified optometrist with over 18 years of experience, specializing in rural and Native Alaskan eye care. He leads outreach programs that regularly serve Tununak and other remote villages, providing culturally sensitive care with advanced diagnostic technology. His practice emphasizes preventive care, low vision services, and community health initiatives, with high family satisfaction and safety records.
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Dr. Thomas R. Ritter
Alaska Eye Care Centers
Dr. Thomas R. Ritter is a renowned optometrist and founder of Alaska Eye Care Centers, with 22 years of experience in comprehensive eye care. His practice offers telemedicine consultations and participates in rural health programs, serving Tununak through mobile clinics and referrals. Known for high-quality care, advanced amenities, and strong family satisfaction, he specializes in managing complex eye conditions and providing optical services.
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Dr. Lisa M. Park
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation
Dr. Lisa M. Park is a dedicated optometrist at Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, with 12 years of experience serving the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. She regularly travels to Tununak for eye clinics, focusing on preventive care, vision therapy, and emergency services. Her practice is praised for its community-oriented approach, high safety standards, and family-friendly amenities, ensuring accessible eye care for remote populations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Tununak, Alaska?
No, there are no resident optometrists with a permanent practice in Tununak. As a small, remote village in the Bethel Census Area, residents typically access eye care through visiting optometrists who travel to the region or by traveling to larger hubs like Bethel or Anchorage for comprehensive eye exams and services.
How can I find out when a visiting optometrist will be in the Tununak area?
The best way is to contact the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) in Bethel. They often coordinate and schedule traveling healthcare specialists, including optometrists, to serve the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. You can also check with the local Tununak IRA Council or clinic for announcements about upcoming vision care clinics in the village.
What eye care services are typically available during a visiting optometrist's clinic in Tununak?
Visiting optometrists to Tununak usually provide comprehensive eye exams, diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts, update prescriptions for glasses, and fit contact lenses. However, due to travel constraints, they may not have a full optical lab on site. You will likely receive your prescription, and then glasses or specialty contacts are ordered and shipped to you at a later date.
Does Medicaid or Indian Health Service (IHS) cover eye exams for Tununak residents?
Yes, for eligible residents, Medicaid and services provided through the Indian Health Service (IHS) system, often administered via YKHC, typically cover routine eye exams. This is a critical resource in Tununak. It's important to confirm your coverage and any specific referral requirements with the local clinic or YKHC before an appointment with a visiting provider.
What should I consider when choosing to see an optometrist in Bethel versus waiting for a visitor in Tununak?
Consider urgency, the scope of need, and travel logistics. For routine check-ups, waiting for a visiting clinic in Tununak is more convenient and cost-effective. For urgent issues, specialized care (e.g., for advanced diabetic eye disease), or if you need to try on frames immediately, traveling to a permanent practice in Bethel or Anchorage is necessary. Factor in weather, flight schedules, and the potential for longer appointment availability in the city.