The Best Optometrists in Kalaupapa, HI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Kalaupapa. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark T. H. Yamashita
Molokai Vision Center
As the primary optometry practice serving Molokai residents, Molokai Vision Center has been providing comprehensive eye care to the island community for over two decades. Dr. Yamashita offers specialized services including management of ocular diseases common in Hawaii, advanced contact lens fittings, and pediatric vision care. The practice is known for its personalized approach and understanding of the unique healthcare needs of Molokai's residents, including those in Kalaupapa who require medical transport services for care.
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Dr. Alan M. Shibata
Maui Optix
Serving Maui County residents including those from Molokai and Kalaupapa, Maui Optix provides advanced optometric care with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology. Dr. Shibata and his team specialize in managing complex eye conditions and offer emergency eye care services crucial for remote communities. The practice has established relationships with medical transport services to accommodate patients traveling from outer islands and is recognized for their expertise in treating sun-related eye conditions common in Hawaii.
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Dr. Scott C. K. Lum
Eye Care Hawaii
With multiple locations serving Maui County, Eye Care Hawaii provides specialized medical optometry services to residents throughout the region, including Kalaupapa patients who travel for care. Dr. Lum focuses on managing complex ocular diseases and conditions that require ongoing monitoring and treatment. The practice offers comprehensive diabetic eye exams, glaucoma management, and works closely with ophthalmologists for surgical co-management. Their experience serving patients from remote Hawaiian communities makes them well-equipped to accommodate the specific needs of Kalaupapa residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Kalaupapa, HI?
Due to Kalaupapa's remote location and small resident population, there are no permanent optometrist offices within the settlement itself. Residents and visitors typically access eye care services through visiting providers or by traveling to other parts of Molokai or to Maui or Oahu for comprehensive appointments.
How do residents of Kalaupapa typically schedule an eye exam?
Scheduling often involves coordination with the Kalaupapa National Historical Park administration or the state Department of Health, which may arrange for visiting optometrists to provide clinics on a periodic basis. For more urgent or specialized needs, travel to Kaunakakai on Molokai or to islands like Maui (via the Kalaupapa trail and subsequent travel) is coordinated, which requires advance planning due to the community's isolated nature.
What should I look for in an optometrist who serves the Kalaupapa community?
Look for optometrists or practices on Molokai, Maui, or Oahu that have experience serving remote communities and understand the unique travel logistics to and from Kalaupapa. It's beneficial if they offer extended appointment times to accommodate travel, provide comprehensive services in one visit (like exams, contact lens fittings, and ordering glasses), and are willing to coordinate follow-up care remotely when possible.
Does vision insurance cover the cost of traveling to an optometrist from Kalaupapa?
Standard vision insurance plans (like VSP or EyeMed) typically do not cover travel expenses. However, they will cover the eye exam and materials (glasses/contacts) at an in-network provider elsewhere in Hawaii. Residents should check with their specific insurance carrier and may also inquire about any special state or federal health program benefits available due to Kalaupapa's unique status to see if travel assistance is sometimes facilitated for medical appointments.
What eye care services are most critical to find when planning a trip from Kalaupapa?
When planning an off-island trip for eye care, prioritize optometrists who offer comprehensive services: thorough dilated eye health exams (important for monitoring conditions like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy), a wide selection of frames for glasses (to avoid multiple trips for adjustments), contact lens fittings and trials, and the ability to handle repairs. Choosing a provider on Maui or Oahu with an optical lab on-site can significantly speed up the process of getting new glasses.