Great experience. Nice facility. On time with no wait. Tech was very patient with me. Overall great experience.

I called ahead to confirm that the eye doctor accepted my referral and insurance before scheduling an appointment for an urgent visit of symptoms that have been ongoing and unable to drive and walked 2.5 miles to my appointment. Upon arrival, I was informed that they did not accept my insurance. They claimed to have called me regarding this but did not leave a voicemail to discuss the issue. The front office staff initially suggested a self-pay option, but when I inquired further, I was told that self-pay was not available either. This experience highlights the breakdown in the healthcare system and a lack of accountability on their part in two instances. 0 accountab=0 stars read more

I called to schedule an appointment for an urgent retinal issue. They rejected me because my Molina health coverage begins in 5 days, even though the earliest available appointment is in September. I requested to come in as self-pay, and they again rejected me. read more

Pacific Northwest Eye Associates cancelled my last two appointments at the last minute, over a year apart. The most recent cancellation was by text that did not identify the company by name and I went in person to my appointment to be told that it was cancelled. Then the staff asked me when I would like to reschedule?! They literally did the same thing to my husband. The one time my husband and I had appointments with Pacific Northwest Eye Associates we had a technician perform our eye exam, not the Dr. we both got glasses that strained our eyes. Avoid this business if possible. You deserve better. read more

Billed me for contact lenses exam. Don't wear contacs didn't have that exam. Called to talk about it haven't returned my call. Its like a money grubbing factory there, like buying a used car. read more

I waited 1hr. 6 min. to get a person on the phone. I let two people there know how long the wait was and neither one of them apologized or could care less. I would NEVER recommend this place because their customer service is absolutely horrible. read more

The care of my eyes there is great. Dr. Patel is a wonderful surgeon that relieved me of eye issues with precision. However, the front staff is lacking and the patient portal website is never working to pay my bill. That needs to be addressed soon. And hopefully the check in process gets smoother as the line can take a while. read more

Most unhelpful eye doctor I've ever come across. Let me know "I shouldn't just have surgery for fun" after letting him know post lasik my eye sight is so poor my life revolves around avoiding driving at night. read more

Made an appointment for both my kids over 3 months ago, was called and told they had to cancel my sons appointment because new Dr does not help kids under 14 (1 week ahead of appointment) Was told they took our insurance, after eye appointment was told the glasses dept does not take out insurance. Since vision exam already done, no place in WA will insure her glasses because vision exam was billed to pac nw eye. We now have to pay for glasses out of pocket read more

Every time I am here for my glaucoma screening, I end up waiting for more than an hour to start the process and ultimately, because of all of the waiting it can be a 2 hr appointment. Pretty sure I can find better service elsewhere. This isn't a one off, it's every time I'm here. read more

I had an eye exam in July, 2025 and got new glasses. I couldn't see with the glasses and went back in September. Turned out my prescription was way off and was corrected. How did a prescription change that much in 2 months? It didn't. The previous doctor didn't write the correct prescription. I went to the optical shop and they changed the lenses. I still can't see compute distance or reading with my glasses unless I tip my head up. At that point I was told I'll need different glasses for computers work ($300) and will need to use the ones I have for driving. They are progressive lenses, so I don't understand. The person at the optical shop told me I'd need to have smaller frames for this prescription to work and that when I was picking out frames I didn't like the smaller ones. Well, if I had known I'd need two pairs of glasses, I'd have gone with the smaller frames. Such poor communication. I have cute glasses I used my insurance benefits for and will probably never wear. Additionally, the doctor who did my exam in July was careless in my exam, leaving me with a prescription that was way off. I've been going to Pacific Northwest eye associates for years, but they have changed in patient service, professionalism and overall patient care. read more

My husband has severe Dry Eyes, which we are now finding out through his (optometrist) he might possibly have neuropathic eye pain that is contributing, which is why Dry Eye treatments weren't helping.. This clinic offered very little help with his condition and made him feel as though it were all in his head--stating your eyes are healthy and sent him on his way. I would not recommend or trust this clinic. His condition was too complex for a MD/OD to care or take the time to look outside the box. read more

The office wait to see my Dr by appointment is unacceptable. The usual excuse is a new computer system, by phone it is short staff. Today, I tried calling into the Tacoma office, they had me for two appointments, I thought it necessary to free up the one earlier appointment I no longer needed, giving someone else the ability to book. Unfortunately, my phone experience is what brought me to make this post. The first time I called this morning, I waited for 20 minutes, it went from 2 before me, to 1, then back to 2. I hung up and decided to try again later. That hold was for 15 minutes and I hung up again. read more

Our experience with Pacific Northwest Eye Associates (PNEA) in Tacoma, WA, has been disappointing. My wife and I require cataract surgery. At 76, we take our eye health seriously. Before scheduling our first visit in December 2024, we carefully researched local cataract surgery options and Dr. Niraj Patel. We selected Dr. Patel based on his experience.The process to secure that initial appointment took two months. We believe Dr. Patel is a skilled ophthalmologist and surgeon. That said, we both felt pressured at the first exam with him to opt for the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), a $4,500 per-eye ($9,000 total) upgrade not covered by Medicare or our secondary insurance. The clinic prominently promotes this option, which likely benefits its revenue. Despite our optometrists advising against a replacement lens other than "standard," we briefly considered it due to the strong recommendation. This raises concerns about whether other elderly patients might feel similarly pressured. Anyone considering this clinic should thoroughly research the LAL option and discuss it with their optometrist or primary care provider before making a decision. After our exams, we met with the "scheduling coordinator" for Dr. Patel's surgeries. We were informed that due to a backlog, surgery dates would be significantly delayed. We accepted this reality and continued the process. However, communication with the clinic was frustratingly difficult. Getting answers required showing up in person and hoping someone could assist us. Scheduling changes were nearly impossible without being pushed months further down the waitlist. Even urgent non-elective medical issues did not seem to influence scheduling flexibility. Patients should be aware of these limitations before committing to the required exam process. This is a business in search of large patient volume and the bottom line. After nearly three months of waiting, we have canceled all future appointments with PNEA. It is too frustrating. Based on our experience, we would not recommend this clinic. Patients should carefully research not only the procedure itself but other local Opthalmology clinic choices, the clinic's billing practices, scheduling and communication policies. We hope others have a smoother experience than we did. read more

I had cataract surgery on both eyes (2 separate surgeries) ... I found all the services from the scheduling, the exams, the surgery and finally the finance dept to be well coordinated. During all my visits, I don't think I waited more than 10 minutes to be seen. That being said, this clinic is very popular, hence very busy, Dr Patel was always efficient in providing his exam, clearly explaining the procedures he will be performing, and he also took the time to answer all my questions. Both surgeries went very well, and it was quicker than I anticipated - in and out in about 2 and a half hours, just as I was told it would be, but couldn't quite believe. The surgery staff were all very nice and caring. read more

My wife's appointment was for 9:30 AM on April 28, 2025, and of course she was a few minutes early. They tell you cannot have any food or drink after midnight the day of your surgery. One hour later and still counting they have not started the procedure and by then you are about faint from hunger and thirst. PNW eye does not give a hoot about you the patient or your time. At 10:52 AM she is still waiting. read more

While I do like my doctor at the Gig Harbor location, their automated phone system is one of the worst I have ever had the misery of trying to use. Really, they cannot have at least one person on their staff dedicated to answering their danged phone?!? read more

On more than one occasion our appointments have been cancelled on the day of appointment. This last one my husband showed up for a follow up for his eye surgery and was told the dr wasn't there and it's not the first time! Not sure what's going on but it's unacceptable and unprofessional. I expect more as we have been going here for years. Called and left a message for management to call me but nothing. Way to run a business people. read more

I love the care I receive from Pacific Northwest Eye Associates. Everyone is so nice and caring. They take care of my eyes like if it's their eyes. Dr. Pham and his staff are very attentive and knowledgeable. Check in and check out teams are friendly and patient with you as well. If you want someone to care about you and your eyes, this is the place to come to and consider it home for your eyes, I did. read more

Pacific Northwest Eye Associates - My picture - Optometrists Near Me - Tacoma, Washington

I have gone here for years and the quality of service has deteriorated at the same time the prices of care skyrocketed . They charged over $200.00 for a standard eye exam, and then told me that they do not accept my United Health Care Vision Policy. Then I was told I could not get my contact RX refilled because they no longer have an in house Ophthalmologist ..... honestly they probably left just in time. They charged me a $13.00 "Cleaning fee" - Did they not clean the rooms before now. I have gone here for years but this was my last visit . Expensive lesson Learned . read more

I'm 90 yrs old and have been going to PNEA for years. Dr. Chiu has been treating me for the last 8-10 yrs. and I have the utmost confidence in in all of his treatment. He is always pleasant, and professional. He always explains what he is doing and what if is for and ask if I have any questions before leaving. Can't say enough about all the staff that I have encountered; they are all pleasant and helpful. My personal recommendation has to be Dr. Chiu. Chuck Wallace ***** read more

I just had a cataract removed today by Dr. Patel and everything went remarkably well. Every nurse was patient and kind and the operation itself was a breeze. read more

I recently had my eye surgery with Dr.Chiu. The surgery went well and they were able to do the other eye the next week. I had floaters for a few weeks, but now all is well. The phone connection isn't easy at this office. I have heard people complain about not being able to get through. I personally didn't experience this. read more

First of all. I took the time to drive to the clinic because if you try to call them, they don't answer and you CAN'T EVEN LEAVE A VOICEMAIL. You will LITERALLY WAIT IN A QUEUE, to be told thr voicemail box is full. Then when you go in they will laugh in your face for asking to schedule an appointment. Then they won't even ask your name when you ask if they got your referral. And then they will ignore you until you leave. 0 out of 5 stars. Hate this place already and they don't even know who I am because they didn't even ask. read more

I went to this office and got an eye exam on the 13. On the 14 I called them because I noticed they gave me another lady's prescription. My eyes had been dilated) so I didn't notice when I left. I was very polite about it but the lady said she was going to add that I was rude on my chart. Well after having the wrong prescription for my glasses for a year ( their mistake) I would really like to get new glasses. I have called once a week now and I still do not have my prescription. I was told I could come and get it. I do. It get home until after 5 and they close at 5! This is a very rude office, the office is not patient friendly! All I want is my prescription that I paid to get! I have even left a message for the office manager. She has not called back, NO one has! read more

I have been going to Pacific Northwest eye associates for the last 20 years. I have always found exceptional customer service and they were able to get me appointments around the times I selected. I've never had to wait. Last year I had an eye infection and I was able to get in that day received my prescription and was able to treat my eye on the same day. Excellent coverage no matter who you see as I have seen two different ophthalmologist when I've been there. Give them a try they are warm and friendly and listen to your needs read more

Literally just called, sat on the phone for about 5 min before I talked to someone. They asked what type of insurance I had and then transferred me to someone else who was unavailable.. they told me to leave a message. I was looking to become a new client but I'll take my business else where. read more

I have had excellent care at Pacific NW Eye Associates from Dr. Pham. He identified and addressed my glaucoma and has preventd it from taking away my eyesight. I can't recommend him more highly to anyone with that or any other eye condition. His staff is very friendly as well and scheduling surgery has been a breeze, and with great follow-up. Five stars! read more

I am not sure how great the Drs are at this location but the front desk staff & assistants are extremely unresponsive & dismissive. I had issues with them filling out paperwork properly/on time for a financial assistance program for people on Medicare. I'd dropped the paperwork off, explained what sections needed to be filled out, they didn't fill it out for a week & then not all of the sections. Had to call back multiple times & the person who was working with Dr Chiu was rude & acted like I was asking for something that she just didn't have time for. They also wouldn't fax the initial request into the company as requested - I had to pick it up & mail it. They faxed the correction in - after about another week of sitting on it. Then I tried to cancel an appt I had this week with Dr Chiu. I called last Friday, sat on hold for 30 minutes (not exaggerating), got disconnected, sat on hold for another 25 minutes, then was dumped into their general voicemail. I left a message canceling the appt & asked them to call back to reschedule. Monday came & went with no correspondence. I sent a message through their website Monday afternoon asking the same thing. Nothing. Since it is Tuesday afternoon & the appt was tomorrow, I called today & got through. I told her I'd left 2 messages & no one had contacted me. No apology, no concern shown, just asked for identifying information & rescheduled the appt & acted like I was being a bitch for calling in. I will have the next appt since I don't want to wait for another month to get in, but I will definitely be looking for another eye Dr after that! read more

I've been fortunate to have Dr Patel as my doctor, for several years now. Dr Patels honesty, sense of humor, and most of all his passion for people and his profession is very obvious. He always explains in detail the procedure you are having, and makes sure you understand your options. In my experience, he's always put all my concerns to rest, and the outcome has always been excellent. I like to say, he's my favorite doctor. read more

We have received great care at this practice. My spouse had cataract surgery and we were very happy with it. We also go there for our annual exams and the service is excellent. The office is clean and welcoming. We also buy our frames and glasses made, it's so convenient for us! read more

I always have a good experience whenever I go to my appointment. The place is really clean, well organized office and clean restrooms. Sometimes my appointment is longer than usual but I do receive quality care when I am with my Doctor. read more

The Dr and her assistant (nurse) was amazing very friendly and very informative. However the front office staff not so much. Treated me as if I was a homeless person off the street just walking in read more

This place is a joke. They are NEVER on time. I sit here at least 30 mine after my SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT.

I would not recommend them. They had two opportunities to tell me they did not accept my insurance. Over the phone as well as in person when they even made a copy of my card. They are very incompetent. And the treatment itself wasn't very thorough and very in informative. read more

I visited this office with eye pain from extreme dry eyes. I thought I was seeing an ophthalmologist, but was seen by an optometrist. He rushed through, did a minimal refraction, and treated my problem dismissively (told me to tell it to my PCP, who then told me to see an ophthalmologist), then rushed off. When I got the bill I was surprised to read, "Additional supplies, materials and clinical staff time over and above those usually included...." I left feeling like I had no visit at all. I have sent two complaints to their office with no response. read more

Facility is very clean, spacious. Staff, very friendly and helpful upon arrival. Doctor was professional, courteous and understanding. answered all our questions. read more

Every thing went very well. they were on time and courteous and they were able to do what i needed. i have been going here for about 5 years for an issue with one of my eyes - read more

I have been a patient of Dr Niraj Patel for a few years. I've been going for my regular, yearly diabetic check ups. He's always been very accommodating, polite and professional. He had said I would need cataract surgery but he didn't push it and left it to me for when I was ready and couldn't function. Finally, it was time. He willingly postponed it when we were apprehensive in March when the COVID-19 virus had so much uncertainty. Now he scheduled me and my right eye was a breeze. The operating room staff was friendly and put me at ease. Post operative was simple and I was out of the office in an hour. When I was concerned about a post operative question, he replied promptly. I would highly recommend him. All of the staff are well trained and polite and professional. Next week I am scheduled for my left eye cataract surgery! read more

I liked PNW Optical's inventory of frames. Crystal, the optician was very helpful. I picked out two frames which were similar but one had larger lenses. Crystal & I agreed on the smaller lenses. When my new glasses came, they were the larger frame, the frames I didn't want. Also, the correction (prescription) was way off. Crystal told me to wear them awhile & see if they would be ok. I did that, went back and was helped by Heather. I picked out a different frame because they didn't have the frame I had originally wanted. The bottom line is the frames were $100 difference in price. Heather, Crystals boss, refused to give me a $100 credit as she considered it was a "redesign" charge. I am very disappointed. read more