The Best Optometrists in Shonto, AZ
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Shonto. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Bryan D. Wolyn
Page Eye Center
Dr. Wolyn has been serving the Page area and surrounding communities including Shonto for over two decades. His practice is known for comprehensive eye care services with advanced diagnostic technology. Patients consistently praise his thorough examinations, clear explanations, and compassionate approach to care. The practice serves many Navajo Nation residents and offers specialized services for diabetic eye disease and glaucoma management.
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Dr. Robert K. Yazzie
Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation
As part of the Tuba City Regional Health Care system, Dr. Yazzie provides essential optometry services to the Navajo Nation communities including Shonto. The practice is particularly noted for culturally sensitive care and serving families across generations. They offer comprehensive vision services with a focus on accessibility for tribal communities and have strong relationships with local schools for pediatric vision screening programs.
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Dr. Michael J. Stahl
Canyon Lands Community Health Center
Dr. Stahl practices at Canyon Lands Community Health Center in Kayenta, serving the northeastern Arizona region including Shonto residents. The practice focuses on providing accessible, quality eye care to rural communities with sliding scale fees for qualified patients. They offer comprehensive optometric services and work closely with primary care providers to manage systemic conditions affecting vision. The clinic is known for its patient-centered approach and community outreach programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Shonto, AZ?
Shonto is a very small, rural community within the Navajo Nation, and it is unlikely you will find a full-time optometrist's office located directly in the town. Residents typically travel to nearby larger communities for comprehensive eye care. The closest options are usually in cities like Page, AZ, or Kayenta, AZ, which are about an hour's drive away. Some optometrists may also participate in traveling clinics or health fairs in the Shonto area periodically.
How can I find an optometrist near Shonto who understands the specific eye health needs of the community?
When searching for an optometrist serving the Shonto area, look for practices in the broader Navajo Nation region that have experience with common local conditions. These can include higher rates of diabetes, which requires diligent diabetic eye exams, and conditions like pterygium or dry eye exacerbated by the high desert climate and wind. Contacting the Navajo Nation Department of Health or the Kayenta or Tuba City Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities can provide referrals to eye care providers familiar with these community-specific health profiles.
What eye care services are most important to look for in an optometrist serving the Shonto area?
Given the travel required from Shonto, it's efficient to choose an optometrist who offers comprehensive services in one visit. Prioritize practices that provide: 1) Full eye exams for glasses and contacts, 2) Diagnosis and management of eye diseases (like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy), 3) A good optical shop on-site to order glasses immediately, and 4) Pediatric eye care. Some providers in Page or Flagstaff may also offer advanced diagnostic technology, which is valuable for thorough care when visits are less frequent.
Do optometrists in the region accept Navajo Nation or Indian Health Service (IHS) coverage?
Navigating insurance from Shonto requires specific inquiry. Many optometry offices in nearby cities like Page or Kayenta do accept a range of insurance plans. For IHS coverage, you typically need a referral from your IHS facility (such as the one in Kayenta or Tuba City) to see a contracted outside provider. It is crucial to call the optometrist's office ahead of your appointment to verify they accept your specific plan (IHS, Medicaid/AHCCCS, or private insurance) to avoid unexpected costs. Some clinics may also offer sliding scale fees for uninsured patients.
What should I consider when scheduling an appointment with an optometrist when traveling from Shonto?
Planning is key due to the travel distance. When scheduling, consider: 1) **Location & Hours:** Choose an optometrist with hours that accommodate a long drive, possibly aiming for a mid-week appointment to avoid weekend tourist traffic if going to Page. 2) **All-in-One Visit:** Confirm that the exam, any necessary tests, and frame selection can be completed in one visit to minimize trips. 3) **Preparation:** Ask if you need to bring any medical records from IHS or your primary care provider. 4) **Weather:** Be mindful of seasonal weather on routes like Highway 160, which can affect travel, especially in winter. Booking well in advance is recommended.