Staff is unfriendly, as it seems that they are mirroring the lack of professionalism from the management. The staff "handles" patients as though they could care less if the business was to be taken elsewhere. Again, an office culture that seems to be a part of the coach & counsel for being hired to work in this office. The shared sentiment is the energy I receive from management alike. Very unfortunate for the consumer! The lack of availability, the sporadic business operation hours, on top of the inability to show empathy has lead me to a boiling point to vow to NEVER use this offices services again. The practice may flourish if facilitated by an actual office manager not a family member. read more

The young staff are unprofessional.... I can only speak for my visit I actually was referred here by my job and multiple people .... Long story short I watched from the front door both receptionist ignoring my call .... I knocked the young lady did answer the door nicely but her face quickly turned Red of shame when I informed her I was the person she just spoke to and who she is currently ignoring I spoke with the manager who has no words ... not even an apology he just allowed me to shop the frames which were Poor selections anyway .... them informing me that I would need to schedule a visit with the doctor just to check out the frames is different but then saying they would cancel the appointment AND charge me a $60 fee for checking out the frames and not seeing the doctor is just scamming plain p read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Jane Hafen since 1983, and because of her thoroughness and her personal interaction with her patients, explains the reason why I've been a longtime patient! I recommend her to anyone! read more

Dr Hafen is awesome. What I like most about her is that she is very through. I got a clear understanding of my condition. She's easy to talk to. Has a pleasant demeanor. Good visit! Paula White read more

The medical service team was welcoming and cordial. Pre and post exam services were efficient. Dr. Arora is always pleasant and provides "no pressure" recommendations to maintain optimal vision. The Bay Vision Eyecare team works really well together. read more

Friendly, attentive, thorough. The only downside is parking, so I'm giving them to stars. Haha, just kidding.

I always enjoy my annual eye exam with Dr. Hafen. she has been my doctor for many many years. it's like a reunion. I love her new office and her new staff is very welcoming , kind and patient. with that said, my experience with Dr.Haden and staff was excellent. thank you read more

Doors locked during business hours and no one calls you back or reply to emails. Place was recommended by coworkers. But I tried a whole week to get service. Never coming back! read more

Always wonderful with my girls Mariah and Giselle. They knew exactly what I liked. Treated myself and my son with respect

Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable employees. Dr Alec is a​awesome Doctor. Beautiful clean and spacious office.

The doctors and staff here are so friendly and very knowledgeable. I love how they are compassionate to people and eye vision. Will only go here for my vision! read more

Doctor was unfriendly, uncaring, and didn't address the issue I came in with which was a red eye with pain. She claimed it was dry eye but an antibiotic from a previous doctor (I moved) cleared it up. read more

Outstanding service. I always received a warm welcome. Nice options of frames to choose from.

Dr. Kelemen always takes his time to give a thorough exam. I've been going to him for years and appreciate his knowledge - he always gives good options for correction. His staff is friendly and helpful. read more

I only came here because Dr. Hafen joined this business, I am not coming back The customer service is THE worst. I made an appointment and had to call 3 times to check if my documents were transferred from Dr. Hafen's previous location; was told each time it takes time.....Really? No one ever returns calls, the customer has to keep calling. Went to my appointment and saw Dr. Hafen; too bad the rest of the team doesn't understand how customer service works - thanks Dr. Hafen for your professionalism Dr. Hafen referred me to another doctor, I saw when she gave all the papers and printouts to the person up front; she asked that the information be faxed to the other doctor office 2 days later I called the other doctor to schedule my appointment (allowing for the staff to send the docs); the fax was NOT received at the referred doctor's office. I called Bay Vision Eyecare and left a message (no one answered the phone) to let them know that the referral FAX had not been received. No response..... I called the next day and after the 3rd call got a person; I advised that the documents had not been received and asked for this to be done, I even provided the applicable FAX number (given by the other doctor's office). The staff member said it was Faxed.......if yes, where did it go? Called the other doctor again to confirm the referral had been received, again - no luck Called Bay Vision once again, after numerous calls got a person whi again said it had been done At this point, I was tired of the lack of service and attitude and did not call back. When I got to the other doctor's office, of course - no paperwork had been sent and the tests had to be done all over again I will never go back read more

Very clean, organized, and wonderful customer service! Large selection of high quality glasses with price ranges for everyone. Dr Arora was a great provider! read more

Horrible customer service. They straight up refused to give me the PD number - i get my glasses made online. They had many excuses but the fact that they won't provide the PD tell me these folks cannot be trusted and have no integrity or intention to help the customer. The experience was terrible with the optician. I would not advise anyone considering getting an exam or buying anything from this store in Oakland. read more

Gave her a second chance. She refuses to extend my glasses prescription past 1 year (law is 2 years) in order for me to get a backup pair of reading glasses because I have dry eyes, and "my eyes are at risk of changing fast". This is 2nd hand from the receptionist because this doctor will not talk directly to patients or respond to emails. Actually my vision has not changed much in the past 8 years. Haven't changed at all between the last 3 prescriptions. I'm only 48, and I can also subjectively tell my eyes have not changed. I'm not an idiot. Will have to get a new and nicer doc in January when I'm up for new glasses benefits. So much for a spare pair of reading glasses out of pocket this year. Store has good frames for filling prescriptions, though. read more

I highly recommend this eye doctor they have an awesome selection of frames. Both the assistants, staff, and doctor are very accommodating and provide the best consultations. I have been coming here for 3 years and I keep coming back! read more

Dr. Arora is AMAZING! She is open, honest, asks questions, and wants to really know what's going on with your eyes. Vic is THE MAN! The service is genuine and warm. I highly recommend them! read more

I've been a client at Bay Vision since I got my first pair of glasses. The staff here is amazing and have made my eye care journey a breeze. They always go above and beyond to make sure patients are getting the best care possible. They also have the best selection of glasses in all styles! I highly recommend visiting especially if you're looking for a consistent and welcoming team! read more

I been going here for the past 20 years, wouldn't think of going elsewhere they are like family.

When it comes to their glasses/ lenses warranty, I have been waiting for the replacement lenses 6 weeks, still not received the lenses at the beginning of 7th week. The eyeglasses is for my kid who is in school. Their office said it takes 2 weeks for the claim, 3 weeks for production and delay delivery due to "holidays". So, one year has 12 months and you will wait for your glasses / lenses more than 1 and half month. Also, if your frame is discontinued, they will not replace your frames. Last year ,only a couple months after I bought the frame , my frame is " discontinued". In brief , when it comes to warranty, expect the long wait or denial. read more

Bay Vision Eyecare Optometry - Optometrists Near Me - Oakland, California

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Vick was such a great help. From the staff to the glasses selection was nothing but the best. This store have plenty of male options when it comes to glasses which I am a fan of. I highly recommend coming here. From there updated machines and helpful staff you can't go wrong coming here. Book your appointment and come down and get your glasses. read more

I love my eye wear bay vision is great! I have 8 pairs of glasses & i look great!

I was referred here because of their selection of designer glasses. I was also asked to drop a deposit off on someone else's behalf so I thought I'd check out the selection then. WRONG!!! I arrived at the location to find the door locked. As I was turning to walk away someone came to the door and let me know entering the store is by appointment only due to Covid-19. Mind you I'm from San Francisco and the mask mandate was lifted for us. Once I said I was going to make a payment I was allowed entry. Confusing because a second ago I needed an appointment. As she is completing the payment she tells me that I can call and make an appointment to view their selection and purchase my glasses. I asked if I could make the appointment now since I'm in store which she agreed. She then ran my insurance coverage for both jobs and told me what was covered. Maybe I was using common sense because why would I call somewhere I am already in person at. So now I feel like this staff member isn't too bright and am unsure if I even want to return. Idiocy makes me cringe. I left the store afterwards. I returned to the store a couple days after to retrieve a more detailed receipt and again I was allowed entry. I had forgotten about making an appointment but if there was going to be an issue I figured I'd get the receipt once my appointment date arrived. But there were no issues. A day or two before my appointment I received 6-10 calls from the business which I had missed due to my phone being on silent. Uhm?! I do work! Once I noticed the calls I thought someone I know for sure died and they're calling to notify me. I return the call and the representative tells me she called to confirm my appointment. I wanted to go tf off. Why are you calling me that much over an appointment confirmation? Each time I've went to the shop no one has been in there attempting to purchase or even look at merchandise and when the employee comes to the door it's in an unwelcoming way that you know you cannot enter. So to call someone repeatedly is not okay. I declined and told her I'd like to cancel my appointment. I knew I'd be leaving this review. Good Luck if you decide to give them a try because one, I do not like the unwelcoming idiocy and two the multiple calls. I am currently looking for another optometry spot with designer glasses because this is not it. read more

We went here to get our glasses done, the receptionist wasn't very helpful. Right when we walked in and asked if we can check out some so we can purchase with our prescription he was really irritated for to check out the frames. That was our first encounter. When we came to pick up our glasses, all I asked was for a properly receipt so I can submit to insurance and he snapped at me saying " that's for me to keep you don't need it !" . I explained I need it for insurance, so he printed a ledger for me and I can feel the vibe that he does not want me there. I expected a bit more out of customer service because I was not rude to him, it should've not been like that. read more

This place is great! Everyone is so friendly and professional. They were able to get my contacts in quickly and were great about checking to see what my insurance would pay for. I'll definitely be going back! read more

Vic and Dr Arora are very professional and are AUTHORIZED dealers of Cartier frames. Excellent customer service and attention to detail

Nice clean atmosphere but not welcoming at all. Yoy might as well be at a hospital. Straight to business, do you have insurance sign this, when done here the cost of these glasses with your insurance add it up will call you in two weeks when they come in, good bye Very dry welcoming. But I guess that's business. Over all not bad service just not welcoming are get the feeling you can be comfortable. read more

I just have to echo, WOW. The quality-to-price ratio at Dr. Arora's is off the charts. I was really happy with my old ophthalmologist in SF. But a change in vision insurance, a new job in Oakland, and the fact that when I called for an appointment my old doc was on vacation for 3 weeks put me on the market for a new doctor. Holy crap, I was getting ripped off before! I used to think that what I paid was just the cost for quality care and quality products (I like to buy designer glasses). But I guess it was just the Union Square markup. At my old doctor, I paid nearly $1000 (after insurance!) for a visit to the eye doctor and a new pair of glasses. Prescription for contacts included, but contact lenses were not. Dr. Arora and Vick got me hooked up with (1) updated prescriptions, (2) a year's supply of contacts, and (3) a new pair of Dior prescription sunglasses -- ALL for a FRACTION of what I paid at my old doctor. No lie. Vick was awesome at manipulating numbers to figure out how best to take advantage of my insurance coverage. And he is really great at picking out glasses to complement your face. He brought out several candidates that he though would look good on me, and after trying several, I went with the first ones he pulled out! Dr. Arora is also a sweetheart, who is very knowledgeable and cares about making sure you understand your eyes. read more

My visit to Bay Vision went poorly. I came to get a new glasses prescription, but as the doctor showed me different prescriptions all of them looked the same, and a little hazy. There was stuff on the lens (which the doctor said she couldn't see) and halos around lights through the phoropter. When she came back with my prescription it was three times stronger than what I currently wear! I went to another office for a second opinion, where they confirmed that my prescription had indeed not changed much and that they would have made an error to give me the prescription they eventually came up with. read more

This place is pretty dysfunctional, and I strongly recommend against coming here. Vick was sick when I went to get his help finding eyeglasses, and he kept sniffling the whole time while he was helping me with finding glasses. That's pretty nasty--you would hope that someone who works in the medical field, and who sticks their face very close to you while helping check the fit of your glasses, would be more conscientious about taking time off when sick, but no, not Vick. The situation got far more frustrating, since I bought glasses from Bay Vision assuming that they would meet their promised turnaround time of 5-8 business days. Instead, it took just shy of a month. The worst part is that I would call them and ask for an update on delivery, the staff would promise to call me back, and then they wouldn't. This happened three times by phone, and I'm not even counting the emails that they didn't reply to. Bottom line, avoid at all costs. Don't let yourself think that this place is convenient based on the location, as I did--find a decent place even if it's a hassle to drive elsewhere, because you're going to be frustrated if you come here. read more

This is an update to my previous review. To clarify, I am a physician in a discipline other than optometry, which means that I went to medical school and residency. As such, I have a unique understanding of what competent patient care and a thorough medical examination encompass...more than the average person who does not have a medical background. When my disabled mother came to me and described her visual problems, visual exam and the solution provided by Vic and Dr. Aurora, I decided to accompany her to the next appointment. When I went with her, I found that Dr. Aurora rushed through her eye exam, seemingly impatient with my mother who is nearly a senior citizen and has served this country well. When I PERSONALLY asked Vic questions about my mothers prescription he gave me an answer that had no foundation in medical fact. In stead of arguing with people who had no interest in helping my mother, I decided to ask a physician (meaning an opthamologist NOT an optometrist), friend of mine to do a professional favor and perform a routine eye exam for my mom. Usually opthamologist don't do this, as they are surgeons and this is not a surgical issue. Anyway, at the end of the exam the prescription ended up being completely different, which we were not surprised about because of the incompetence of Bay Vision. Because of insurance policies, my mom had to have the new prescription filled at Bay Vision rather than my friends' office. When I accompanied my mother back to the office to drop the prescription off and to explain how we got the new prescription, Vic stated that they had not made a mistake, and that he would charge my mother for the new prescription. After much discussion, Vic agreed to send the frames that my mother had already paid for from Bay Vision to replace the old faulty prescription from Dr. Aurora with the new prescription...but my mother would have to pay for the shipping, of course. After posting my first review I received a message from Vic stating that I wasn't a patient and did not receive services, and if I didn't take my review down he would sue me! I was present at several appointments, and directly interacted with Vic and Dr. Aurora, in full disclosure that I was a physician. If these people would spend more time being competent and less time being punitive I think their business would thrive and they wouldnt have to threaten real, competent physicians over a yelp review. read more

Wow, let's keep the 5 stars rolling in.... I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by Dr. Arora and her fabulous team. Their "BEST OF THE BAY" award by KRON is well deserved! Came in for a routine eye exam since I haven't had one in over 6 years and ended up getting some free stuff and also purchasing a sweet pair of Prada glasses that fit perfectly and comfortably! Comfortable glasses are so hard to find these days. The team at Bay Vision Eyecare are SUPER friendly and VERY proficient in what they do! Thank God for Yelp... Now I have an awesome place to go whenever my eyes need some love and attention. read more

I used to go to an optician by the name of Dr. Michael Jackson and he retired and referred me to Dr. Arora who bought the business. This was over two years ago...maybe three. I was initially hesitant as it was just the comfort of having an optician who knew everything about you for over fifteen years but I must say Dr. Arora and Vick deliver an A -1 superior customer service experience. They are extremely professional but yet so friendly you feel like you went to your best friends house to get an eye exam. Prices are extremely reasonable for designer glasses and contacts as well. The doctor is very knowledgeable and genuinely cares about her patients. She takes the time out to do a complete thorough exam and Vick completes the process in helping you pick the glasses that are right for you and your face without any pressure. I have a corneal transplant and felt like I may never truly be able to see correct but although my vision constantly changes I can depend on Bay Vision to make sure I'm okay and to keep my vision as good as it can possibly be. If you haven't had an eye exam or need a new pair of glasses or just want to get your eyes checked out come here. Insurance or no insurance makes no difference. I pay out of pocket and have yet to feel like I'm paying out of pocket. I have referred several people including my fiance and my brother and both were very impressed with both the service and quality. In all honesty they are better than my previous optician and I didn't think it could get any better than him. read more

Overall my experience here was inefficient, frustrating, and inconvenient. I both live and work within 5 blocks of BVOE and would never use this business again if I could help it (and now that there's an optical place literally across the street I dont have to.) SIX WEEKS from start to finish for a contact lens prescription. -A super quick and cursory eye exam. -Not one , but two NO SHOWS from the doctor for my follow up appointments. (I asked at the front desk if the family was in crisis, just to be sure I wasnt being insensitive here. Nope--the doctor just didnt feel like coming in that day.) On one of the missed appointments, they didnt even call me, I just showed up and was turned away. -No one called when my trial contact came in. When I physically came by to see after calling many times they said "oh, we were *just* about to call you." -Cursory Pupillary Distance measurement by that wierd kinda greasy used car salesman office assistant guy of 62 (taken with a ruler?) was corrected by a Costco machine where it was a full 5 millimeters in error. The younger office staff seems really sweet , just under bad leadership. The office manager--kinda skeevy and not very knowledgeable or interested in customer service (beyond staring at your boobs, I mean.) And the doctor--just in a hurry and checked out. Sve yourself some trouble and go anywhere else--well at least if you value efficiency and customer service. However, if you love great design their office is a dream--thus the 1 star read more

If you value efficiency, competence, and genuine care, do not come here. I am going to try to keep this review as fact-based as possible, and you can judge for yourself. I needed a new contact lens prescription b/c I had run out of contacts. Pretty basic, right? Very shortly into my first visit, Dr. Arora made it seem as if she didn't want to give me said prescription. As she told me, "Wearing contacts is a privilege, not a right." Um, okay. I had chosen this place based on proximity to work. My own fault for choosing a health-related service based on convenience vs. quality. I've been wearing contacts for 15+ years, so I told her that if she was already sure (without even checking my eyes) that she wasn't going to give me a prescription, I didn't want to continue with the exam. She said that wasn't the case, so I went through with it. What a surprise when she said that she didn't feel comfortable writing said prescription at the end of the appointment. Why? Basically, she said I have dry eyes. Pretty common, right? Exactly. But I went through with her requested regimen - used glasses and eye drops for weeks and returned. At this point, it became very clear that Dr. Arora and the staff at Bay Vision care way more about liability than their patients. They said they could not give me a prescription without a note from an ophthalmologist. So...I went to an ophthalmologist (go back to the first note re: valuing time/efficiency...) who was fantastic and correctly diagnosed me in less than 5 minutes (seriously) and said he saw no reason why I couldn't wear contacts. He faxed a note to Dr. Arora. The office staff proved to be just as incompetent as Dr. Arora. I called to confirm receipt of the fax. They said they never received it (they had). I called again to see if I needed to refax, read the letter to them, etc. I was told no. Then, I received a voicemail saying yes. I called back and the person that answered again said no, just come in. So I requested to talk with Vik. He had me REfax the letter. I did. And yet somehow, the letter wasn't sufficient even though anyone with a simple command of the English language could read that the ophthalmologist had okay'ed me . He asked for yet another letter. At this point, I had had enough. I told my friends my issues. Multiple people independently referred me to Eye Carumba. They were amazing! I faxed everything to them, and they said they could help me the same day and even offered a discount b/c they felt so bad for me and b/c Dr. Arora conveniently used my insurance dollars without providing the singular service I clearly requested on day 1. In the end, my ophthalmologist also felt terrible for me and the subpar service I had gotten from Bay Vision Eyecare, so he had me see his partner, an optometrist, who wrote me a prescription for free. Net, net: Go to Eye Carumba, or go to your doctor. Do not, do not go to Bay Vision Eyecare Optometry. They care about getting your insurance dollars and watching out for liability leagues more than they care about patients. read more

I have been uncomfortable before when having my eyes examined but Dr. Arora made me feel at ease (maybe its her mesmerizing green eyes!) She explained each procedure and eye test and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. She spent a lot of time asking me about things I had trouble seeing, and really listened to my answers in addition to doing all the required tests. I also noticed that the equipment and the office was very clean (she cleaned the pieces of the equipment that touched my face!) When I was diagnosed with a near-sightedness, which required me to get glasses to see far away while driving at night, I was unsure of whether I wanted to get them at that Lens Crafters place as I am very picky and didn't want to spend a ton of money on glasses I only wore at night. However, Vick changed my mind entirely. He spent a ridiculous amount of time helping me pick out the right pair of glasses - I must have tried on at least 15 pairs. He also used the little tools to adjust the glasses while I was trying them on so I could get an accurate gage of how they fit on my face. When I liked one frame shape and fit, but not the color of the frame, Vick immediately told me they would be able to get the other color. After about 25 minutes, I finally decided on a pair. The best part- the COST! Compared to a high end designer place in downtown San Francisco, this was half the price! I even got the option of anti glare lenses and a super case. The office told me that the glasses would be ready within the week. They also asked me about my insurance, and were helpful in the sense that they wanted to help me fill out any of the necessary insurance forms. Unfortunately, I don't have vision insurance, but I was pleasantly surprised at the extra time they were willing to spend with me. Oh, and my new eye glasses are SEXY (says my GF) and I can actually see when I chauffer her around at night. read more

I just recently was able to get insurance with my new job and it came just in time as my vision has been a bit fuzzy lately. A friend recommended Bay Vision because of the selection of glasses and the professional atmosphere (and they were featured in Best of the Bay!) Was a little cautious at first because there are some mixed reviews, but calling in for my appointment and my actual visit there definitely proved to be a good experience. Dr. Arora was helpful and friendly during my check up and explained all the different procedures so that I felt comfortable. She was also really gracious when I kept blinking and twitching since I had never had my eyes checked up before. I also really appreciated that Bay Vision was much more enclosed and private than going to Costco or some of the other eye care places where it seems so much more public. Luckily, my eye sight wasn't too bad, but Dr. Arora did recommend getting a pair of glasses so that driving at night and reading wouldn't strain my eyes even more. I've heard that some optometrist will try to sell as many products as possible to clients, even if it's not necessary- so I'm glad that Dr. Arora was honest and didn't try to get me to get contacts (cause I probably would have gotten them if she told me I had to!) Since I wouldn't be wearing glasses all the time, I honestly didn't care too much about what they looked like, but I'm thankful that Vick was able to walk me through the importance of having glasses that fit my face instead of grabbing the cheapest possible pair that they had. He pulled out several frames that he thought would fit well and was patient while I tried them on, even as I was indecisive on which one to get because I still wanted the cheapest pair. Eventually settled on a pair that was within my budget (no more than $50) and didn't make me look like a grandma! I admit that I was probably most worried about the prices, even with insurance coverage. My friend had said that Bay Vision was reasonably priced, but I felt that Costco was probably my cheapest option and it was also a bit of a trek to go to Oakland for my vision care. But, I'm thankful that I found a place that I can trust, and in the end, it's worth the little extra because they were so helpful and I have a place that is my go-to for eye care instead of bouncing around to different places based on prices. In the long run, I'm realizing that there are some things that aren't worth compromising for costs- and eye care is one of them! Long story short: do research for eye care and don't settle only for the cheapest place. And take the advice of friends! They can lead you to some really good finds! Also, didn't know this until I visited- but they also have a location in Hayward! read more