In 30 years, I've been to 5 optometrists due to a change in insurance coverage or residential address. I've received care at a large Kaiser clinic, a free/low cost clinic, from an independent doctor with a small practice, and another independent doctor in a posh clinic. **DR. MICHAEL R GALLAP** is the 5th optometrist and by far the best. He practices in the office of Dr. Lori Chai Fernandez in Costco, Kahului, Maui. While all the doctors were proficient, Dr. Gallap stood apart from the rest.
--QUALITY PATIENT EDUCATION. From the moment that he began service, he offered bits of information and advice that I could easily process. I did not feel overwhelmed by the jargon.
--HONEST SALES Gallap was forthright in disclosing that he did not benefit from any Costco eyewear sales. He suggested optional products and services that might be of interest without making me feel like he was pushing those suggestions on me. The staff at the posh clinic did a lot of suggestive selling (recommend costlier items) that I did not like. The best part was that Gallap steered me to the best options for low cost eyeglasses, contacts, and contact solutions at online and brick/mortar sites. Also, he provided a generous amount of free sample contacts for me to evaluate before I committed to purchasing them.
--COST Check to see whether your insurance will be accepted. I paid the full cost of the contact fitting, $45.00, and $14.00 for the $86 comprehensive eye exam. My HMSA PPP covered the difference on the eye exam. They accept credit card payments unlike Costco.
--EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE Gallap was welcoming and personable. I felt comfortable and not rushed. He made an effort to establish a strong rapport. Gallap was also mindful of cleanliness and insured a clean surface for any part of the exam equipment that my face touched. He was also efficient at conducting the exam while explaining what I could expect at each step. Gallap also provided his personal email and cell number. Wow, right?
He is a doctor to keep. read more