The Best Optometrists in Ookala, HI
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Ookala. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Big Island Vision Partners
Big Island Vision Partners
Big Island Vision Partners is one of the highest-rated optometry practices on the Big Island, serving the Hilo area and surrounding communities including Ookala. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Jason K. K. Kim and his team provide comprehensive eye care services using advanced diagnostic technology. The practice is known for its thorough examinations, friendly staff, and excellent patient communication. They specialize in managing complex eye conditions including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy while offering a wide selection of eyewear. Patients consistently praise the practice for its professional care, modern facilities, and ability to handle both routine and complex vision needs.
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Gerald N. Kuwahara, O.D.
Gerald N. Kuwahara, O.D.
Dr. Gerald N. Kuwahara has been serving the Big Island community for over 25 years with his established practice in Kailua-Kona. While located on the west side of the island, his practice serves patients from across the region including those willing to travel from Ookala for specialized care. The practice is renowned for its comprehensive approach to eye health, offering advanced diagnostic services and personalized treatment plans. Dr. Kuwahara specializes in difficult contact lens fittings and manages complex ocular conditions. Patients consistently report exceptional care quality, thorough explanations, and a comfortable office environment with state-of-the-art equipment.
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Waimea Vision Center
Waimea Vision Center
Waimea Vision Center serves the northern Big Island region including communities like Ookala with comprehensive optometric services. The practice is led by experienced optometrists who provide family-focused care with particular expertise in pediatric optometry and sports vision. They utilize advanced diagnostic technology including digital retinal imaging and visual field testing. The center is known for its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to patient education. Reviews consistently highlight the practice's attention to detail, comfortable examination process, and excellent follow-up care. They maintain strong relationships with local ophthalmologists for surgical co-management when needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any optometrists located directly in Ookala, HI, or will I need to travel to a nearby town?
Ookala is a small, rural community, and it is unlikely you will find a dedicated optometry practice within the town itself. Residents typically travel to nearby larger towns such as Hilo (approximately a 45-minute drive) or Waimea (Kamuela) for comprehensive eye care services. It's advisable to search for optometrists in these neighboring areas and plan for the travel time when scheduling appointments.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist serving the Ookala area?
Given the need to travel, key factors include the optometrist's proximity to Highway 19 for easier access from Ookala, their hours of operation, and the range of services offered. Look for practices in Hilo or Waimea that offer comprehensive exams, manage ocular diseases common in Hawaii (like UV-related conditions), and have an optical shop on-site to minimize multiple trips. Checking reviews from other North Hawaii residents can also be helpful.
Do optometrists in the Hilo or Waimea areas accept my Hawaii-based medical or vision insurance?
Most optometry practices in the larger towns near Ookala accept a variety of insurance plans common in Hawaii, such as HMSA, Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, UHA, and Medicare. However, coverage for vision-specific plans (like VSP or EyeMed) versus medical insurance for health issues can vary. It is crucial to call the specific office ahead of your visit to verify they are in-network with your plan and understand what your visit will cover, especially for residents making a special trip.
Can I get an urgent eye care appointment quickly if I live in Ookala?
For urgent eye issues (like injuries, sudden vision loss, or severe pain), contacting an optometrist or ophthalmologist in Hilo is your best bet due to the greater number of practices. Explain that you are calling from a rural area like Ookala. Many clinics try to accommodate emergencies. For after-hours emergencies, the Hilo Medical Center's emergency department is the nearest facility that can provide initial care and referral to a specialist.
Are there any mobile vision services or community health events that serve rural areas like Ookala?
While not a regular service, it's worth inquiring with community health centers in Hamakua or North Hawaii. Organizations like the Hamakua Health Center sometimes host special vision screening events or have partnerships with visiting optometric services. Additionally, non-profit organizations occasionally run vision care outreach programs on the Big Island. Checking local community boards or the Hawaii Department of Health website for events can help you find these limited but valuable resources closer to home.