The lack of optometrists in the area is puzzling. Just me?
After much research for a new optometrist within a 10minute radius of where I live, I called Dr. Galante's office. I had an appointment with Dr. Galante this past Monday because I needed a new prescription for my contacts. I think I hate eye appointments almost as much as I hate dentist appointments... almost.
Scheduling an appointment was fuss-free, but he had no availabilities earlier than a week out because of the "back to school" rush - understandable. Dr. Galante's office brought me back to my childhood. It reminded me of my old pediatrician's office in that it was very old school and quaint, but there's nothing wrong with that. He was very prompt and did a comprehensive eye exam. It took about 45minutes to an hour (take into account the 10-15 minutes for my pupils to dilate) and he did a very thorough job. The only qualm I had was that I felt like he was too close at times and it made me a little uncomfortable... He was very professional, but there was definitely a good 5 minutes of him invading my personal space when he was inspecting my dilated pupils. I've gotten my pupils dilated and examined before, but this was the first time the optometrist was close enough to my face where I could feel them breathing on me. I think I stopped breathing at a certain point because the exchange of air between us was making me more uncomfortable.
Despite that, it was a good appointment and I was able to cross this eye exam off my to-do list... at least, until next year. It was $100 for the eye exam without insurance for those interested.
PS. Other optometrists I've been to usually give me a sample pair of contacts to try out, but that was not done here.
PPS. There is free 2 hour parking spots in front of his office. read more