New Clinics in Beaverlodge and Dawson Creek Bring Enhanced Eye Care Access to Rural Communities
Acuity Eye Care Optometrists is excited to announce significant expansions to better serve residents across Northern Alberta and Northeastern British Columbia. With a beautifully renovated historic clinic in downtown Beaverlodge and a new location in Dawson Creek, the practice continues its mission to improve access to comprehensive eye care in underserved rural communities.
A Journey Rooted in Community: The Beaverlodge Story
Since 2018, Drs. Shaun Waayenberg and Victoria Kennedy have been committed to providing exceptional optometric services to the Peace Country region. What began as an examination-only space within the Beaverlodge Health and Wellness clinic has blossomed into a full-service optical practice serving the west county.
“We were immediately drawn to Beaverlodge as a place to practice optometry for its friendly and welcoming community with a wealth of cultural events,” share the founding doctors. “Our original intention was to improve access to medical eye care for members of the community.”
Historic Renovation Preserves Small-Town Character
In 2025, recognizing that their team had outgrown their leased space, Acuity Eye Care seized the opportunity to purchase a historic building on the corner of Main Street in downtown Beaverlodge. The thoughtfully renovated space honors the building’s heritage while providing modern eye care facilities.
The renovation preserved original brickwork, exposed beams, and the building’s historic footprint, incorporating furnishings and décor that reflect the town’s unique culture. Acuity Eye Care is honored to serve as stewards of this cherished downtown space and invites community members to experience the blend of history and modern healthcare.
Expanding Access: Dawson Creek Clinic Opens
Residents of Dawson Creek and surrounding areas in Northeastern BC now have improved access to quality eye care closer to home. Acuity Eye Care has long served patients from Dawson Creek who traveled to Beaverlodge and Grande Prairie for optometric services, but the team recognized a critical gap in accessibility.
“Due to extended wait times in northeastern BC, we have a significant patient base who travels to our clinics,” explain the doctors. “However, we learned from our experience in rural clinics that for every patient who can travel 1+ hour to seek eye care, there are many others who are unable to access care.”
The Dawson Creek clinic currently operates with weekly visits from Acuity Eye Care’s team of doctors, with plans to grow the patient base to support full-time optometric coverage for both emergency and routine eye care needs.
Comprehensive Eye Care Services in Northern Alberta
Both the Beaverlodge and Dawson Creek locations offer full-scope optometric care designed to meet the diverse needs of rural communities:
- Emergency Eye Care: Prompt attention for urgent eye health concerns
- Disease Management: Specialized care for glaucoma and macular degeneration
- Routine Eye Exams: Comprehensive vision assessments for all ages
- Optical Services: Full-service eyewear selection and, coming soon, on-site glasses cutting services
Community-Centered Approach to Rural Eye Care
Acuity Eye Care’s commitment extends beyond the examination room. The practice actively supports local culture and community life throughout the Peace Country region.
In Beaverlodge, Acuity Eye Care proudly supports the Beaverlodge Area Art and Culture Centre, Beaverlodge Art Walk, Christmas Craze, and local youth sporting groups. As the Dawson Creek clinic grows, the team looks forward to building similar community partnerships.
“At Acuity Eye Care, we believe that local businesses help form the heart of our communities,” the team emphasizes. “Supporting local events, building a network of friendly and caring faces, and generating goodwill help create strong, happy communities.”
What to Expect at Your Visit
Understanding the challenges of fitting healthcare into busy rural lifestyles, Acuity Eye Care prioritizes friendly, professional, and efficient service in comfortable settings. The clinics are family-friendly, offering activities and dedicated spaces for children to make visits easier for parents.
“Come See the Difference” isn’t just a tagline it’s a promise of accessible, quality eye care delivered with small-town warmth and professionalism.
Vision for the Future in Northern Communities
Looking ahead, Acuity Eye Care remains dedicated to its founding mission: improving access to eye care services in rural Canada. The practice’s long-term goals center on sustainable growth that supports community health and cultural vitality.
“We love living and working in rural Canada, and we strive to support our communities and patients so that they can maintain the clear, healthy vision needed to see and experience life’s greatest moments,” share Drs. Waayenberg and Kennedy.
About Acuity Eye Care Optometrists
Acuity Eye Care serves Northern Alberta and Northeastern BC with locations in Beaverlodge, Dawson Creek, and Grande Prairie. Founded by Drs. Shaun Waayenberg and Victoria Kennedy, the practice specializes in comprehensive optometric care with a focus on improving healthcare access in rural communities. From emergency eye care to disease management and full optical services, Acuity Eye Care combines professional expertise with genuine community commitment.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Experience the difference that local, accessible eye care makes. Contact Acuity Eye Care to book your comprehensive eye examination at our Beaverlodge or Dawson Creek locations.
Serving the Peace Country with excellence in vision care since 2018.