The Best Optometrists in Valdez, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Valdez. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Robert Brown
Valdez Family Eye Care
Dr. Brown has been serving the Valdez community for over 15 years with a focus on personalized, high-quality eye care. His practice is known for its state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent patient satisfaction ratings. He specializes in comprehensive eye health assessments, contact lens fittings for all ages, and urgent eye care services, making him a trusted local provider with a strong safety record and commitment to community health.
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Dr. David K. Chang
Alaska Eye Care Center
With over two decades of experience, Dr. Chang and Alaska Eye Care Center are highly regarded for their advanced technology and expert care, serving patients from Valdez and across Alaska. The practice boasts a 4.8-star rating based on extensive patient reviews, emphasizing safety, thorough diagnostics, and family-centered services. They offer a full range of optometric care, including specialized treatments for eye diseases, and are known for their welcoming staff and efficient service, making them a top choice for regional eye health needs.
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Dr. Jennifer L. White
Cordova Eye Care
Dr. White provides exceptional eye care with a focus on patient comfort and safety, serving Valdez residents and the broader Prince William Sound area. Her practice has earned a 4.6-star rating for its comprehensive services, including vision therapy and advanced contact lens options. With over 12 years in operation, Cordova Eye Care is praised for its friendly environment, modern amenities, and high family satisfaction, ensuring reliable and accessible optometry services for the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many optometrists are available in Valdez, AK, and what are my options for eye care?
Valdez has a limited number of optometrists due to its remote, small-town setting. Typically, there are one or two independent optometry clinics serving the community. For specialized care or a wider selection of frames, residents sometimes travel to larger cities like Anchorage. It's advisable to call local clinics directly to confirm current availability and services, as options can change.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in Valdez, given the local climate and environment?
In Valdez, with its heavy snowfall, high winds, and reflective environments (snow, water), look for an optometrist experienced in addressing related eye concerns. This includes expertise in managing dry eye exacerbated by indoor heating and cold winds, recommendations for high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV and polarized lenses for glare reduction, and guidance on protective eyewear for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, or snow machining.
Do optometrists in Valdez accept my vision or medical insurance, and how does location affect coverage?
Most optometrists in Valdez accept major medical insurance (e.g., Blue Cross, Premera) for eye health exams and may accept some vision plans. However, due to the remote location, it is crucial to verify in-network status directly with the clinic and your insurer. Some out-of-state plans may have limited networks in Alaska. Be sure to ask about coverage specifics for both routine exams and any potential medical eye care.
Can I get a comprehensive eye exam and purchase glasses or contacts all in one place in Valdez?
Yes, the optometry clinics in Valdez typically offer full-service care. This includes comprehensive eye exams, diagnosis and management of eye diseases, and an optical dispensary with a selection of frames and contact lenses. Due to shipping logistics, frame inventory may be more curated than in larger cities, and contact lens orders might take slightly longer to arrive, so planning ahead is recommended.
How far in advance should I schedule an appointment with a Valdez optometrist, and what if I have an eye emergency?
It's wise to schedule routine eye exams several weeks in advance, as appointment slots can fill quickly, especially before seasonal shifts like the long, dark winter or bright summer. For eye emergencies, contact your local Valdez optometrist first; they can often provide urgent care. If they are unavailable or the emergency occurs after hours, you may need to visit the Providence Valdez Medical Center or be referred to an ophthalmologist in Anchorage.