This is probably the most positive experience I've ever had with an optometrist in my entire life-…read moreand I've been wearing glasses for 20 years now. Everything from setting up to the appointment to getting my glasses in hand was a pleasurable experience, even if it took a little longer than most for the rx to arrive. I was able to email the practice, get a call next day, and get in really quickly. They also take Medicaid insurance. It's not common to get a 5 star experience with a Medicaid participating provider, so that alone says a LOT. The receptionists over the phone are extremely courteous, polite, and spoke in a clear, pleasant tone. But their good service doesn't end on the phone- Della Porta EyeCare staff is extremely cautious with COVID-19 measures- requiring patients to call when they arrive, to answer a symptoms questionaire and pass a temperature check before being allowed into the office. It really shows they care a lot about keeping their patients and staff healthy, which is so important to me as a patient.
When waiting outside the office, you don't know what to expect, as the entrance is at the bottom of a stairwell, like you're going into the basement. Once the door is open, however, a spacious office surrounds you- with a giant curved receptionist desk and seemingly large behind-the-desk area, decent-sized frame try-on area, several little alcoves with medical equipment and then some exam rooms. It's not exactly modern in appearance, but it is tidy, has no smell, and there was no wait at all, so that's always good.
After filling out some forms, I was sent to the exam room. The very friendly and thorough optician asked me some background questions to start my patient file and got my exam prepped for Maria Della Porta, OD. When Dr. Della Porta came to do the exam, you immediately get a sense of comfort from her- like she is very professional, but not pretentious. Her vibe is your family friend who happens to also be a competent optometrist. The best thing about her is she seems to really like Optometry. She seems very knowledgeable and she wants to share her knowledge with her patients. I've never had an eye doctor teach me as much about my condition or include me in my care as she did. She was also able to point things out about my eyes that other doctors never were able to notice- like how I have poor muscle control in my right eye, and how it is somehwat "lazy". She was also able to point out what other doctors have noticed- like I have really dry eyes, and she was able to restart me on restasis so I can produce more tears naturally. I left my visit feeling like I learned something about my health and my own body. I can't say that about many providers, to be honest.
The optician was super helpful when it came to picking out a new set of frames. I usually have difficulty finding flattering lenses, especially after a pupil dilation. I also told her I have a really wide head and need a larger pair of frames. We both kind of zoomed in on the same pair, which ended up looking and fitting great. It was the easiest time I ever had picking out frames, and when I finally got them today, after 12 days of waiting (they promised 7-14 days), they fit and feel as good as I could ever hope. And the best news is I can see better than ever before. I've also been taking my eyedrops for a little over a week and my eyes are finally starting to feel a little better. All in all, I give Della Porta EyeCare 5 stars. Their staff, the optician, and optometrist are all top quality. Everyone seems to really enjoy their job and caring for patients, and they take Medicaid coverage. I can't stop telling people how impressed I am with this practice!
