I recently had a troubling experience at Diablo Valley Optometric Group with Dr. Michael Ottati, located at 2255 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite C, Walnut Creek, CA. On April 7, 2026, I was denied an eye examination solely because I refused to undergo the Optomap procedure or sign a "Release of Liability for Internal Eye Health Exam", which I felt was being aggressively pushed by the non-medical staff. I've been a patient at this office for approximately 13 years, and I was surprised to find that despite my prior examinations, I had never been properly informed by Dr. Ottati about the requirements and necessity of the Optomap procedure while the doctor performed the eye examination. When I denied the service by the front desk staff, I asked to speak directly with Dr. Ottati about my concerns, but his justification for recommending Optomap was vague and unsatisfactory; he only said "it is recommended". What struck me as particularly concerning was the insistence from the front desk staff that I view a video about the Optomap (biased video by the product developer) and sign a "Release of Liability for Internal Eye Health Exam" in order to receive any services at all. This approach raises serious ethical questions about informed consent in medical care. Why is a non-clinical staff member pushing a medical procedure without proper justification from the doctor? To make matters worse, I later learned that my insurance covered dilation, the traditional method that allows a thorough assessment of nearly 100% of the retina, which is done as part of the routine eye examination (in my case conducted the previous year in 2025). I was denied the chance for my regular eye check-up even though, as later the my insurance company verified with Diablo Valley Optometric Group that the Optomap procedure was actually optional procedure. Comparing dilation (Tropicamide 0.5%) and Optomap is a choice between a traditional clinical "gold standard" and a modern, high-speed imaging technology. While Optomap is highly convenient, most eye doctors view them as complementary rather than as direct replacements. Doctors can see nearly 100% of the retina using the dilation (Tropicamide 0.5%). Dilation allows for a three-dimensional view and a more detailed examination of the extreme edges (periphery) of the retina and is covered by vision insurance. Doctors can only capture approximately 80% (200°) in one shot using the Optomap. It is used for low-risk patients who want to avoid the inconvenience of blurred vision, therefore is also helpful for children or patients who are sensitive to eye drops. Optomap is, in my case, an out-of-pocket fee ($39). Furthermore, the language in the "Release of Liability for Internal Eye Health Exam" document I was pressured to sign was alarming. It implied that without the Optomap, serious health conditions might be missed, which is misleading when dilation has effectively been used for my past examinations without issue. The reality is that the dilation method provides a comprehensive view of the eye and is also covered by my vision insurance. I wrote a letter to and strongly urged the California State Board of Optometry to investigate the practices at Diablo Valley Optometric Group. Patients deserve to make informed choices about their healthcare without pressure or coercion from non-medical staff. Based on the findings, I hope that the Board takes appropriate action to protect patients, possibly recommending that Dr. Ottati be removed from the VSP provider list. I am disappointed that I had to confront such unethical practices in what should be a routine medical visit. Proceed with caution if you decide to visit this office. read more

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Love my new frames! Staff is thoughtful and attentive. The doctor is informative and walked me through different health outcomes based on my eye scan. read more

Diablo Valley Optometric Group - New Tom Ford frames - Optometrists Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

To preface, I have a been a patient at Diablo Valley Optometric Group for a handful of years and have been seen by a few different associate doctors aside from Dr. Ottati within this time. That being said, this past visit has me quite put off from years prior due to the front office staff. Annual check ups are made the year prior here. When you come the first time, they will have you schedule your next visit while you are there. So, prior to my visit that was scheduled over a year ago, in a 2 week span, I received 3 phone calls and an email confirming my appointment; the second call received, I confirmed with the staff. The day prior to my appointment, I received a call from Sylvia(?) / Cindy(?) saying the doctor would not be in and that I needed to reschedule. Yet, the only availability she offered was during obscure work hours the following week or if I immediately rushed down there. Since I was running very low of contact lenses, I needed this appointment ASAP. Emergencies happen and I was willing to overlook this rescheduling. After rushing down there 15 minutes after the call, I was able to be seen at 430p by Dr. Ottati and the exam ran as normal. They require an in depth test of the eye now as part of their exam so be prepared for an extra charge on that. At the end of the exam, Dr. O stated that my insurance coverage had changed, that I may be required to pay slightly more out of pocket, and Sylvia? / Cindy? would be able to sort me out. This was where the experience turned worse. Without going into specifics as to what and what is not covered under insurance plans, Sylvia? proceeded to speak to me with the most curt and exasperated tone in handling my order. I'm was not sure if it was because I was the last patient, an unscheduled patient, or that I kept her a little later than she wanted, but, regardless, I felt that each question I asked was met with a condescending response from her. After leaving, I thought maybe it was an off day for her, I misread her, or that I was overreacting. So, I had my wife follow up with her a couple of days later since she works in a similar field. She was met with the same snappy manners as I! Diablo Valley Optometric Group has a great doctor in Dr. Trinh and is conveniently located on Ygnacio near several medical offices on Wiget. Aside from this, the customer service has drastically diminished. It seems like Dr. O is keeping Sylvia? from the front office around on the mere fact of her long standing tenure with him. She lacks the necessary people skills befitting of her position and a dark blemish on the other front staff and entire office. Since insurance price is nearly the same at every practice you sign up for, you are essentially paying for the experience on your visits. So if your experience was as poor as mine, do yourself a favor and spend your money elsewhere. Avoid the likes of people like Sylvia? / Cindy? read more

What can i say beyond I'm a new patient & had a great experience here. Staff and professionals.

This place is great. Had a warranty issue with a frame not purchased here. They stepped up and took responsibility to provide service even though it was not their responsibility. Would definitely do business with them again. They also carry great and stylish eye frames from independent high quality brands. read more

Horrible office communication and etiquette. I asked to speak with Dr. Michael about my office experience noted below to which his office manager responded "the doctors do not deal with these matters." It is clear this office does not care for their patients or patient experience. If you're planning on ordering contact lenses be aware of the following: 1. The office will NOT contact you if there is a manufacturing delay in your contact lens order because "they are short staffed and have too many orders to keep up." YOU are responsible for following up. I had to call almost a month after my order to figure out what's going on. Then they so kindly informed me that there's a delay. Absolutely ridiculous. 2. There is a pick up appointment system once your contact lens order is delivered at the office. Not only did the staff fail to inform me of this system when I called a month after my order but once my order was ready I wasn't able to pick up my order that afternoon. Who needs a 2 min appointment to pick up a contact lens order? I was told this is because they're "short staffed." Hilarious. IN SHORT: This office does not care about their patients. They do not know how to effectively communicate with their patients. They take no measures to remedy the situation. Save your time and money and go somewhere else. read more

BIG SLAP IN THE FACE!! My husband and I have been going to this optometric office for over 30yrs. We started when the business was being run by Dr. Otatti's father in law. Eventually Dr. Michael Ottati took over the practice and we have been with him ever since. In 2017 we retired and managed to find an insurance for retirees that was inclusive of Diablo Valley Optometric. Today, one day before my appointment I received a call from his office stating that my plan was no longer in their network as they have chosen to opt out. I would have to pay cash when at my visit, but of course they would offer me a 30% discount.... Great way to treat long standing customers... it's bad enough that once retired your options for eye and dental care coverage is so limited compared to what was available while part of the working class... you pay more and get much less coverage .... Anyway, big shout out to Dr Otatti! Way to NOT look out for your loyal customers.. Yeah, I know, it's just business. read more

This place is okay. Staff is friendly and professional enough the optometrists are fine. The shop is pricey.

The BEST #1. I'm a repeat customer because Dr. Ashley Tjoe is such a great doctor, highly intelligent and fun to visit with. Their office is meticulously clean, well organized and easy access. They honor their appointment times unlike the last business I used to dread visiting. The best decision I ever made was switching from Contra Costa Eye Medical Group to Diablo Valley Optometric Group. I highly recommend Diablo Valley Optometric Group. They are definitely kid friendly too. read more

Stay away. Ordered then cancelled a pair of glasses a day later. Was told by office they would 'check' with frame manufacturer to see if order could be cancelled. No response. Followed up two days later and received the same response - we'll 'check' with frame manufacturer. Again, no response. Called in a third time two days later and left a message. Again, no response. I finally had to call credit card company to resolve. Then I got a response. Exceptionally poor office communication by staff with zero accountability for internal mistakes - yet managed to blame the customer. Incredibly high prices - better off at Costco. read more

Dr Ottati has been my optometrist for many years. Many of his staff have been there since I started seeing him also. I have had nothing but professional and positive interactions with everyone in the office from day one. Dr Ottati has a great personality and I've always enjoyed talking to him during my yearly visit. His staff has helped me pick out frames that I like and look good on for years. When money has been tighter I let them know and they help me find the less expensive frames. I'm shocked to read about their prices, if I can't afford Tiffany frames I don't look at that brand. They have a wonderful selection and every year they help me find a new look that I'm happy with. If you need a new optometrist come visit this office. I will he staying with this office until Dr Ottati retires many years from now. read more

Nice office, good service and they sell Persol, yes. While heading westbound on Ygnacio Valley Rd we turned left then right into the parking lot only to discover we should have continued to the right side of the building where the office entrance is. We walked through the building only to discover suite C entrance is on the outside of the building on the right side(north I believe). Hopefully the office updated their address on yelp. I was drawn here because they take VSP and sell Persol. read more

To be honest, I made an appointment with Dr Ottati not only because of the good reviews but also the bad review about his 'wet noodle' personality..LMAO I couldn't hold my curiosity...! The visit was actually great. He was professional, friendly, and quick - basically everything I needed from a doctor. I didn't see the 'wet noodle' part unfortunately -- Whoever wrote that review, sorry! :-P Their frames are definitely not cheap - only if you want brandy ones. And let's be realistic, when you want a pair of Gucci, Prada or Dior, it will never be cheap no matter where you go. I got the brand I wanted this time. Knowing I will be wearing it for years, I think it's worth it. read more

This is an extremely expensive place to get your eye glasses. And you won't get very good help with picking out frames that fit your face. I wanted to make some adjustments to the glasses that cost me one thousand dollars, but they said I was past the time allowed. read more

Doctor was great and very informative but the admin who presented me frames gave me 6 options of the highest name brands even though I had and showed her what I currently was replacing which was a basic, insurance covered frame. I should have pressed harder for cheaper options but overall feel she didn't even try to match my needs. Great doctor but left salty about that experience so probably wont be back read more

I've been a patient here for over 13 years, and the service has always been excellent. Dr. Ottati and his staff are top-notch!

I Love Dr.Otatti He's My Favorite & Does Such An Amazing Job. He Always Has The Best Equipment & Supplies. However I Was Extreamly Upset Today. It's Saturday & The Office Is Open Until 12. I Called In Advance To Let Them Know That The 3 Mile Slough Bridge Going To Antioch Was Closed & Anyone With An Appointmet Was Having To Go Around. So I Went Through Stockton It Was The Fastest Way. I Called at 11:30 And Let The Girls No I Would Be Maybe 20 Minutes Over. They Told Me They Close At 12 Regardless & Had No Care Of The Situation. All I Was Doing Was Picking Up Contacts & Glasses That Were Ready & You Mean To Tell Me No One Could Stay 20 Minutes Longer & Wait After All That?? Very Upsetting & That May Be My Last Pickup/Visit.... Yikes......... read more

My family and I have been going here for years now. The staff is generally nice, except for Frannie. Whenever I or a family member comes in contact with her, we are left with dissatisfaction. She seems to always be rude and unfriendly. When I tried asking her a question she acted like it was a stupid question and was very condescending. She is very unprofessional and creates a bad experience. Besides Frannie, Dr. Ottati is nice, the exams are good, but the frames are pricey. read more

My husband and I went here for about 2 years. Overall, it was ok. Dr. Ottati is a nice guy and so is the staff, but I wouldn't say there is anything extraordinary about their services. Everyone is nice, the office is conveniently located and clean. One thing I did not like is that if you don't want to have your pupils dilated during your exam, you have to pay an extra $50 for a different type of exam. This seems a bit silly to me and overpriced. Also, while the eyewear here is very nice, it is very pricey. They carry high end brands like Tiffany, Gucci, etc. so glasses with lenses can easily run you a few $300-$400 dollars. I think they need more variety. They are also a bit pushy with sales, which I don't like. read more

Dr. Ottati and his professional practice are terrific. He and his staff are on time, professional, and friendly. I especially liked the critical eye of Lisa, who helped me choose new frames. On the other hand, I did not appreciate all of the expensive options that were part of the new frames/glasses I purchased. Normally, I try to spend money on the frames, not all of the lens upgrades. However, there did not seem to be an option here. I would much rather pay less for the lenses, and pay for the service I received instead. In short, Dr. Ottati is a great optometrist. However, I will purchase my next set of glasses elsewhere, even if I have to do without Lisa's services. read more

Dr. Ottati and his office staff are friendly and professional. I was very impressed by the high tech equipment used for my eye exam. I have Keratoconus and had many problems getting decent vision with Soft Toric lens. I was referred to Dr. Ottati as someone who specializes in fitting contacts for people who have bad astigmatism and Kertoconus. I have heard of other people having it take months to be fitted with contacts and it only took me two visits. I live in San Francisco and work in Palo Alto but it is worth the long drive for quality service! Thanks Dr. Ottati! read more

My family has been going to Dr. Ottati for several years now, and we've been very happy with him. His office staff is friendly and polite for the most part. We've had one bad experience with one of his asssociates though. It's easy enough to avoid seeing that one though. read more

I recently had to get my first prescription glasses at age 37 and this is the palce I chose. Here is why: If you have VSP for your vision coverage, then this is your place. They fully accept it and have the best selection of frames that are covered by VSP. The staff is nice and everything about my experience here has been great so far. My glasses are just what I needed and they also helped me choose the best options for lenses, etc. Looks like this will be our family stop for all vision related things! read more

I only had 30 minutes for an exam and to pick out frames (on my lunch), and the staff and doctor worked amazingly well with me. They accommodated my time, were professional and explained everything to me. Dr. Otatti was also very thorough in his exam and I appreciated that. read more

Came all the way from the CITY to get my jacked up eyeball looked at.. I soon as I walked in I felt welcomed. The service is great, the staff is friendly and informative, and you never have to wait for your appointment (as I've had to do at other places in the city). They're really great at informing you of what's going on with your eyes and your options. They also use all the latest technology that makes other places look archaic. Dr. Ottati did his magic, gave me my medication and get this.....he didn't even charge me. Love this place. One more thing FRANCES is the best!!! read more

Dr. Ottati was amazing. He was quick and through and answered all of my questions and explained everything. They had so many glasses to choose from and I was helped one-on-one. The lady helping me even priced out every pair of glasses I was considering and helped me add new lenses to my Sunglasses. I live in San Francisco, and will continue driving to Walnut Creek to see Dr. Ottati and his staff. read more

Been going here for two years and I'm very satisfied. Here are the reasons I'll keep going: Expert advice on glasses and contacts. I've bought contacts through their website twice and they've been cheaper than anywhere I've looked. Client service that is beyond what I've seen elsewhere. They care about each patient being totally satisfied, and it's obvious. High tech eye equipment with an optometrist who knows how to use them (can't say this about all of them). He's a really smart guy and can tell you a lot about your eyes if you let him. Five Stars! read more

Great Doctor and Great staff! They go out of their way to accommodate your needs... I've been going there for years and I reccomend them to everyone... read more

Would give zero stars but not an option. Absolutely the Worst Experience I have ever had!!! Rude Staff. Triple Booking. Asked me to pick out frames, before I even saw the Doctor. Who knows if I need glasses??? Would rather go to the DMV than this place! read more

I've been coming to Dr Ottati's office for a few years. Comprehensive eye testing. Wide selection of frames and contacts. Wonderful staff. I even referred my parents, who are are also regulars. Dr. Tjoe has also been a great addition to the team. read more

Maybe this office just opened or something, but this place is by far the worst medical business practice I've ever visited. I can't speak for how good the Dr. is b/c I didn't come here to get my eyes examined, so this review is solely for their lenses/frames business. I called and ordered a specific pair of frames on Nov 9 and then called the next morning to slightly adjust my order to a 53 mm instead of 51 mm. To preclude the office making any excuses, I even have voicemail evidence from the receptionist saying that the order was taking longer to arrive b/c of the size change. I waited for over 3 weeks to get off of work early and then sit in traffic to finally try on my frames and they still messed up my order. The frustration I went through in dealing with the office did not help. Every time I called to inquire about the order status, no one seemed to know what was going on. The first receptionist told me "we don't do special frames ordering", when they obviously do. The 2nd time I called to f/u again, I got the same confusion that took over 10 minutes on the phone to clear up. It seems like they have no business continuity whatsoever and don't keep any record of customer orders. Someone told me, "Ohhh, I found a small post-it note somewhere in the back about your order". Good thing I was persistent enough to call and check on the order status b/c in the end they never even contacted me after my frames arrived. The receptionist basically lied (once again) and told me I was a left a voicemail when I didn't receive anything at all on my phone, unless Apple mysteriously deletes voicemails. I really disliked the fact that every time I was on the phone, someone was telling me something different and made up lies to cover up for their mistakes or lack of knowledge. The people I dealt with in the office were so unprofessional and couldn't even apologize for ordering the wrong frames, even after I had clear voicemail evidence. Long story short, do not come here to support a terribly inefficient, irresponsible business. read more

I had a great experience at Dr. Ottati's office today. I have been coming here for a couple of years and was having trouble getting new lenses for a pair of frames I really liked. Frannie went out of her way to make sure we got the lenses I needed into the frames I really liked. I will continue to purchase my glasses here. read more

Typical "bait and switch" - they offer low cost eye exams, then immediately sit you down and show extremely expensive frames, then try to convince you to buy even more expensive options. I ended up spending twice what I wanted to pay, and did not get anything I consider "superior". The receptionist is not very friendly, and she plays "rap" and "hip hop" music on her radio loud enough for everyone to have to tolerate - not what I consider "normal" Walnut Creek customer background music.... I rate a business on the ENTIRE business package - and this one just turned me off completely. read more

Been going here for years! Love their advice on frame choices. Will be back next year. 25 year patient.

When my company dropped VSP, I had to leave the best optometrist in Central.Co., Dr. Michael Roy in WC. Most of my new choices.with Eye.Med :( were the mall based opticians. Not good! Dr. Ottati was one of two independent choices and Dr. Roy recommended Ottati. I.went to Dr. O. for a couple.of years, but felt his office was all about the $$. They were always pushing a test (not covered by insurance of course). He was.an.okay doc, but has the personality of a wet noodle. The frames offered are off the chart expensive, even with insurance! Have gone to Costco to get prescription filled and still saved money without insurance! If convenience is #1 if you live nearby, go for it. For me, I can get exams at Costco for $49.and glasses for FAR less. read more

My family and I have been going to Dr Ottati for several years now and for the most part haven't had many issues. The office/service is just mediocre and not amazing! I called recently to inquire about contact lenses and left 2 messages for the Frannie. I specifically ask for Frannie each time cause she knows my situation and has worked with me for several years now. I finally got a call back from her and she said "you know you don't always have to ask for me, there are other girls that can help you!" I was a bit taken aback by this. I felt like she didn't want to help me or something. My dad recently got a new doctor as well cause he experienced Frannie to be rude and condescending. With these experiences and more, we have decided to move on to a new doctors office. read more

Michael Ottati's organization is highly professional. I look forward to my annual appointment to scan my eyes for any deterioration caused by Type II diabetes. If I need new glasses there is always a great selection of stylish frames to choose from. read more

I've been a patient since 2001 and have felt that the service that I receive is great. They make you feel appreciated and not rushed. When ever I need a repair or supplies, they offer their help with no obligation. I really recommend this business to anyone wanting to deal with a quality operation. read more

We have come to this practice for almost 20 years. Dr. Ottati and his staff are top notch, Especially Fran who is the only person I want to measure for my progressive lenses. The evaluation equipment is state of the heart and beyond what is found in even many Opthomologists offices. The selection of frames has always been current and accessible. read more

It's been a few years since I purchased glasses from Diablo Valley Optometric Group, yet they still pleasantly adjust my sunglasses...this type of customer service is what is going to separate successful businesses from the others. JA read more