By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
Vision, a fundamental aspect of our daily lives, is undeniably crucial. And Tulalip Optometry is going beyond the importance of eyesight, to prioritizing patient care. The optometry office recently decided to part ways with its previous partner, opting instead for independence. This strategic move underscores their commitment to fostering community eye health through accessible and affordable optometry services.
“We hope to reopen in February,” said Tulalip Health Clinic Optometrist, Rachel Spillane. “The clinic used to operate on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, but now it will be open Monday through Friday. This change will provide our patients with better access to care, which was one of the primary goals when Tulalip took on running the eye clinic independently.”
Spillane continued, “We will also offer walk-in care. If someone has pink eye or gets a foreign object in their eye, we will be able to treat them. Additionally, we provide specialty medical eye care, reducing the need for external referrals. I see it as an opportunity for us to build a state-of-the-art clinic, one of the best for our tribal members, and that’s pretty cool.
“One noticeable improvement for tribal members visiting the optometry office is the incorporation of the latest technology for eye care. All the equipment will be new, and we will have more technology to provide patients with the care they deserve.
“For glasses, we plan to expand the selection of styles and brands you can choose from. Our supply was limited in the past, so we want to ensure everyone has an option. Some of the brands we will have include Luxottica, Ray-Ban, Gucci, St. Laurent, and native eyewear from artists in Canada. Additionally, we have negotiated with several brands to provide better rates.
“All tribal members will be able to receive services here, regardless of their insurance status. With everything now done in-house, it makes things easier for the patients. Having everything in one spot is particularly helpful for our patients, especially the elders, who used to have to travel all the way to Everett, and the journey was difficult for some.”
The new optometry office will be opening soon. If you have any questions or need to contact the eye clinic, please call them at (360) 716-4511.