My daughter had two vision screenings at her daycare- one in July and one in early December of this year, during these last 6 months, they progressively worsened. As a result, I decided to locate an optometrist who works with pediatrics and has the patience needed. I called three different places that Google recommended including Envision Eyecare Center, Banner Ophthalmology, and Sato's office. The Banner people were rude and not helpful (review pending), the staff at Sato's office were equally as rude and unhelpful; nonetheless, I made an appointment with them (for mid- January 2018). Finally, I called Envision Eyecare Center and they were so personable on the telephone and were able to get me in the following week. I called Sato's office and cancelled my appointment and showed up at Envision a few days ago (12/27/17).
Everyone from the front desk person (Erica) to the optometric technician (Jessica) to Dr Barry and the licensed dispensing optician (Laura) were amazing and most of all patient with a 3 year old:
Erica greeted us upon entry even though she was with another patient. We waited patiently for our turn and then check-in, filled out appropriate paperwork, provided our insurance card and ID and sat in their waiting area. They even had a smaller kid-sized table and chairs. Erica came and showed my kiddo where the toys were and helped her get settled in as we patiently waited our turn. Unlike, most of my experiences with doctor's office we only waited the 15 minutes we were early and were then called back by Jessica.
Jessica introduced herself to me, but most importantly to her- YES, TO A KID! Jessica asked my kiddo if she felt more comfortable with her sitting on my lap or on the chair alone, being my kid- she responded "alone." She then proceeded to ask me the questions only a parent could answer and would intermittently check-in with my kiddo. *MAJOR KUDOS FOR THAT* This built immediate rapport with my kiddo and my kiddo proceeded onto the exam. At the end of Jessica's part, she even remembered to get my kiddo the cup of water that she had previously promised her. *KUDOS X2 FOR FOLLOWING THRU*
Dr Barry came in, introduced himself to mom and dad and than to our kiddo. He was a slender, mid-height, older gentleman with one of the kindest faces I have ever seen. He had an appropriate level of energy and made us (mom & dad) laugh occasionally. He was extremely knowledgeable of his "trade" and was able to effectively explain to both of us what exactly was going on with our kiddo's eyes, how the school screening went and was his recommendations would be. By this time, my kiddo was becoming inpatient and her attention span was shorter and shorter, not to worry though, Dr. Barry was able to hold it for as long as he could for each step of his examination. He even offered to take a picture with her for her first exam, but she declined and told "next time."
Finally, Dr Barry escorted us to a section adjacent to the waiting area where there were numerous frames, big, small and some for the kiddos. Laura came out and helped us. Showed us a cabinet with kiddo frames and my kiddo went away trying them on until she finally decided on ones she liked and the rest is history...well actually, we're waiting for them now.
I've had glasses for many years and so has the hubby, we've only had two seamless interactions (including this one) and we're so happy we know our kiddo is in good hands. We were also happy to find out that we can bring our prescriptions to Laura (or one of the other ladies) and get our frames here as well! read more