The Best Optometrists in Hawi, HI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Hawi. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark Sugiyama
Kona Eye Care
Dr. Mark Sugiyama at Kona Eye Care is a highly respected optometrist with over 22 years of experience serving the Big Island, including the Hawi area. The practice is renowned for its exceptional care quality, advanced diagnostic technology, and family-friendly environment. Patients consistently praise the thorough exams, knowledgeable staff, excellent safety records, and modern amenities. Dr. Sugiyama specializes in managing complex eye conditions and offers personalized care with a focus on preventive health.
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Dr. Michael Tanoue
Visionary Eyecare
Visionary Eyecare, led by Dr. Michael Tanoue, provides comprehensive optometric services to residents of Hawi and surrounding communities. With 18 years of experience, Dr. Tanoue is recognized for his patient-centered care, modern amenities, and high family satisfaction ratings. The practice emphasizes preventive care, uses state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnoses, and maintains strong safety protocols. Patients appreciate the friendly staff and efficient service.
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Dr. Scott Okamoto
Hilo Eye Care
Dr. Scott Okamoto at Hilo Eye Care offers top-tier optometric services to the Big Island, including Hawi residents. With two decades of experience, he is acclaimed for his expertise in managing complex eye conditions, excellent safety protocols, and compassionate patient care. The practice boasts a strong track record of family satisfaction, advanced diagnostic tools, and a wide range of vision services. Dr. Okamoto is known for his thorough approach and commitment to community health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Hawi, or will I need to travel to another town on the Big Island?
As a smaller town in North Kohala, Hawi itself has very limited medical services. You will likely need to travel to nearby towns like Waimea (Kamuela), Kailua-Kona, or Hilo to find a practicing optometrist. Many residents of Hawi schedule eye care appointments in these larger population centers, which offer multiple clinics and optical shops.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist on the Big Island if I live in Hawi?
Given the travel from Hawi, convenience and comprehensive services are key. Look for an optometrist in Waimea or Kona who offers extended hours or Saturday appointments to minimize time off work. It's also wise to choose a practice that provides a full range of services—comprehensive exams, treatment for eye diseases, and a wide selection of frames—so all your needs can be met in one trip. Checking reviews from other North Kohala residents can be helpful.
Do optometrists in the Waimea/Kona area accept my Hawaii-based medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in the larger towns near Hawi do accept major insurance plans common in Hawaii, such as HMSA, Kaiser Permanente (for approved referrals), and Medicare. However, vision-specific plans (like VSP or Eyemed) may have more limited in-network providers. It is crucial to call the specific clinic ahead of your appointment, confirm they are in-network for your plan, and verify coverage for both the exam and any potential eyewear.
Can I get an urgent eye issue addressed quickly living in Hawi?
For urgent but non-emergency issues (like a sudden foreign body or eye infection), contact optometry clinics in Waimea or Kona first, as they may accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. For true eye emergencies (chemical burns, sudden vision loss, severe injury), proceed directly to the nearest Emergency Room at North Hawaii Community Hospital in Waimea or Kona Community Hospital. They have staff who can provide initial care and coordinate with an on-call ophthalmologist if needed.
How far in advance should I schedule a routine eye exam living in Hawi, and what should I bring?
Due to higher demand and fewer providers on the island, it's advisable to schedule a routine comprehensive eye exam at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially if you need a specific doctor or a Saturday slot. For your appointment, bring your current glasses and/or contact lenses, a list of any medications, your insurance cards, and a valid photo ID. If you have a complex medical history, consider requesting your records be sent from your previous eye doctor ahead of time.