Very thorough and thoughtful. Eye exam at a good price beats the ripoff at Warby Parker

I came to this location years ago. I needed an annual eye exam and decided to come to this location. This is the new location. It is easily accessible by public Parking: small lot Waiting area: bright and cozy Checkin process: quick. You can also do it online but beware! They are aggressive with the checkin reminders. Service: i didnt wait too ling before being called to the back. Everyone in the process was very nice. Dev Patel did my exam and he was awesome!!! He took the time to explain things and answered my questions. He also made sure to address my concerns with Dr. Wetzler. Both of the guys were very attentive. I will continue to come to this location read more

The Eye Institute - Entrance - Optometrists Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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I had a great experience while at my eye exam at the Eye Institute at Chestnut Hill. I was greeted well at the front counter. The gentleman was very courteous and he helped me correct some things that needed correction. The young lady that did my exam was thorough and she explained everything clearly. The doctor was also very thorough. They let me know how to take care of a little issue I have. I left feeling confident. See you next year read more

First visit, and last. On arrival, I was (for the first time) told this is a training facility for students but rest assured, my exam would be with a student and doctor - I completely support that method, but that's not how it was done. Let me be fair, the student that did the exam was professional and thorough. I was generally pleased. It was a bit long, about 45 minutes - and she did it 100% solo. She agreed that my reading classes were sufficient and provided a prescription for 1.50, in case I wanted glasses in the future. She had no concerns about my eye health, at all. Fast forward and a doctor enters the room. And it was all of a sudden like being at a car dealer. With no exam of his own, he tossed away the prescription, had it re-written for 2.00 and said I had narrow angles - something never mentioned in 30 years of eye exams - not in the preceding 45 minutes! He referred me to a specialist and the whole "sales pitch" was shady. He said the Shafer Vision Institute would receive my visit details and reach out to me - that was 1 month ago and nothing. In that time, I went to Boscov's Optical, had an exam by a optometrist and was told I had great eye health, no actions needed, no narrow angles and a prescription for, you guessed it, 1.50. I would give 4 stars to the young person who did the exam, but the "doctor" should be investigated - literally felt like bait and switch. read more

Was not my 1st time there. My 1st visit was about a couple of years ago. The exam was done by a student as it was before and followed up with by a doctor, who done a few exams while student was in the room and asked her a few questions and informed her that she did very well. To my surprise the Dr told that whatever I'm doing keep it up because my exam showed my eyes were better than the last exam and he is the same Dr from the last 2 exams. I have done somethings for trying to make my eyes better and it must be working. Dr told me that he'll see me in 6 months. read more

I was so happy with my experience here. I've had some not so pleasant experiences downtown and so decided to try a doctor closer to home. The front desk receptionist was kind and patient with me and the student that was assisting the doctor who did the majority of my exam was thoughtful thorough and so nice. I'm coming back here in the new year for my contacts! read more

Great place for an eye exam. Initial exam by final year student with follow-up by instructor. Much more thorough exam than other spots that simply rely on a computer. I've been going here for many years. read more

Upon my arrival I was immediately greeted by the intake worker at the front desk. Once I was checked in, I was seen as scheduled. The students were professional and friendly and the doctor was knowledgeable and very thorough. He further explained in layman's term my results and suggested further testings as precautionary measure. read more

Review for Dr. Nick Gidosh 07-25-2024 Having worn prescription contacts and eyeglasses for the past 45 years, I wish to share my experience with clinician Nick Gidosh O.D. Dr. Gidosh skillfully worked with many variations on my gas permeable contact lenses, as my vision experienced multiple changes, with the onset and further development of cataracts. The year 2024 has been very stressful starting in February when my left eye could no longer be assisted to 20/20 vision. Dr. Gidosh provided a calming voice as I needed to visit a retina specialist to determine if I had a retina issue versus a cataract issue. (My retina exam report stated the retinas were in good health.) Dr. Gidosh then shared discussions with me as I needed to decide the type of cataract surgery, with or without laser assistance. Dr. Gidosh then shared discussions with me as I needed to decide if a Toric lens would be best for me. My eye history included a lifetime of astigmatism and high myopia scripts. I reside outside of Pennsylvania and after failed results with two large eye centers in my state, I returned to Philadelphia Eye Associates. This presents a three-hour drive one-way, yet my time was well invested over many visits for care. Dr. Gidosh partnered with me over 2.5 years, never quitting nor wavering from the challenge that my eyesight presented. My strongest recommendation is provided here for any patient needing eye examinations and contact lens fittings. Dr. Nick Gidosh is a talented clinician possessing an attitude for success with every patient. It has been my pleasure to have been under the care of Dr. Nick Gidosh. I pray for his health and continued success for many years to benefit patients. Thank you S.P. read more

The young man I had was exceptional. He was patient kind, and professional. He answered all my questions & was very accommodating. I recommend him highly. read more

All the staff were very friendly and polite. I did not like the fact that all sorts of personal details were asked where other patients in the waiting area could hear the questions and my responses. However, I waited only about 5 minutes before I was taken back for exam. the clinical staff were efficient and thorough. i am in my late 50s and have worn glasses since I was 14, this is the best eye exam I have ever had. my questions were answered patiently. Surprise, they said I don't need new glasses. There was no push to spend money on a new pair, which always happens with major stores. Definitely continuing with them. read more

Horrible service , wasn't seen at my appointment time waited 50 minutes with no one coming out to at least let me know what was going on. Still waiting 4 days later for my prescription to be verified but no one answers the phone read more

The receptionist, student examiner (Ashley?) and the OD (Dr. Meltzer) were all professional and very nice. I felt very confident in their examinations and treatments. My only beef is that the location is much further from my home than the other Salus venue that I have visited (Godfrey Ave). I was very satisfied with my visit here and would highly recommend this practice. G. Forman Fox Chase read more

There was little waiting time in the Chestnut Hill office. The technicians were efficient, thorough and friendly. No complaints. Great Service read more

A Very good satellite for the Salus University and knowledgeable externship and Doctors for your eye care.

Salus Institute in Chestnut Hill is great. Short wait time and very professional. Explained every part of the exam.

I have been coming to Salus Eye Institute in Chestnut Hill for years and have always had excellent, state-of-the-art service. This time was no different. The senior student who did the primary exam was skilled, thoughtful and personable. The supervising doctor was thoughtful, patient, and very helpful. (And they use the latest equipment, so, for instance, the new glaucoma test is accomplished with a soft puff of air - no anesthetic drops needed!) Couldn't be happier! read more

The medical staff was great if the rating was just for them it would be a 5 star but the receptionist and the person that does the glasses I don't know if both were having a bad day or that it was close to going home read more

I was glad that I. Was able to continue going to the Eye Institute. I've been a patient for many years and they are thorough, and ask pertinent questions as well checking and helping eyesight improve if necessary. read more

A very Spectacular Experience and very professional services. Will SEE you soon!!

I love the optometrist that did my son's exam, very knowledgeable, answered all my questions & was super professional! However, the make receptionist was a little rude upon checking in. read more

The office was very clean and efficient. I did not have to wait too long after my scheduled appointment time. Everyone was nice, addressed my concerns and offered options. I really loved Dr Meltzer, demeanor and patient approach. I have already recommended him to several coworkers read more

The good,,, once you get an appointment, their staff is absolutely unbelievable. Courteous professional and all together a great experience. The bad,,, if you call to make an appointment you have a better chance of seeing a lunar eclipse then getting somebody on the line within a half hour of waiting. And God forbid that half hour is somewhere around 5, they just cut you off. Literally the most archaic 1980s low-tech useless phone system. (once you get on the line with somebody they couldn't be nicer.) read more

I had an over all good experience. The exam was thorough. The doctor took his time and didn't rush me through. The staff was friendly, compassionate and efficient. They took my insurance so I didn't have to pay anything. I needed bi-focals and opted for the basic type with the line and got basic frames which was fine because they had a good selection. I'm 50y/o so what do I care about fashion? I was told I might have to wait about 2 weeks for my glasses but they were ready in less than one week. I pick them up today so I'm keeping my fingers crossed and hoping the service remains good. My only critique was the time I had to wait to get an apt and that they only seem to be open for regular business hours. To their credit though, I got held up at work and missed my original apt, but they worked with me to get me in as soon as possible. Overall I've had a very positive experience. All I would ask is that they consider later hours on some days and/or Saturday hours. read more

This is a good place to go, if you want to spend over two hours having your vision checked, then get the wrong prescription. At least that was my experience. I arrived on time for my appointment, then checked in with the receptionist. I tried to check in, I should say. She had obviously been trained to take no nonsense from the customers, and put me in my place right away. I finally was called back to start the examination 15 minutes late. The examination was done by two students, and they administered every test available, twice. You see, when you go to the Eye Institute, you become a Guinea pig for student optometrists and ophthalmologists. After that, the supervising ophthalmologist came in to administer the same tests again, some twice. You can now see why it took over 2 hours. Finally it was all done, and I could leave...right? Not so fast! The doctor had to officially sign off on the prescription, and she was busy with another patient. After waiting another 15 minutes for her, I said I was leaving and told them to mail the prescription to me. When I had not received it after an entire week had passed, I went down to pick it up myself. I took the prescription to an optometrist and had 2 pairs of glasses made. When I tried the glasses, I discovered that my vision was worse with them than without. This, as it turned out, was because the Eye Institute has supplied me with the wrong prescription. The optometrist called the Institute, told them what had happened, and asked them to provide the correct prescription. It took them over a week to reply. I still don't have the new glasses, and that's all thanks to the fabulous work of the Eye Institute at Salus University. Avoid it at all costs read more

Prompt, courteous, and contentious service.

Wonderful students, residents, and doctors. Diagnosed my diabetes when I didn't have any indication other than sight issues. All is well now and I'm doing awesome! read more

If I could give 0 stars I would. I made an appt. in late 2020 for January, 2021. Since covid-19 is in effect, my temperature was taken at the door as my name was on the list. Once I approached the receptionist, she lied to me that I was notified my appointment had been cancelled. No one called, emailed or left a voicemail letting me know not to come. When I explained this to the receptionist, her response was to roll her eyes and shrug her shoulders. Later that day I attempted to make a new appointment but was told they were no longer scheduling anyone until further notice all while stating 400 other people had been cancelled as well. The Eye Institute lacks professionalism and should consider retraining their employees in the art of customer service. read more

If I could give zero stars I would for their poor customer service. I arrived for my scheduled appointment only to be told it was cancelled. The receptionist lied and stated that I was called. With all the modern technology (caller ID, voicemail) they should no better not to lie. When I called to reschedule, I was told they are not accepting any further appointments. read more

I had an appointment, I was called in by eye doctor less than 5 minutes of waiting. Staff was friendly and professional.

They used to be good but as of late I made an appointment and there wasn't an opening until 3 MONTHS after I needed one. Then I had to reschedule for over a month later because whoever scheduled me gave me an appointment when the doctor isn't in. So I had to settle for an appointment 2 weeks later at a branch much farther away from me. The worst part is that I am badly in need of new glasses and the I was due for new ones 4 months ago. If you have a choice, go somewhere else! (Plus everyone in the office besides the doctors had horrible attitudes.) read more

As a neighborhood business that supposedly took my insurance I really wanted the Mt. Airy branch of the Eye Institute to work out. I was willing to overlook the fact that the first day (just another Monday) that I called for an appointment the office was apparently closed - no explanation, no answer etc. A couple of days later, after a lengthy time on hold I finally spoke to someone whose first question was "what insurance do you have"... and even though these guys are listed on the insurance company's website and printed directory all I got in reply was "we don't take that insurance". When I questioned them, the answer went from curt to a dismissive "while we don't take it". If this is how they handle things on the phone, I can only imagine what the in person experience would be like. No thank you - I'll take my business elsewhere Update on 6/17: I received a reply from The Eye Institute's marketing department apologizing for the service I received when trying to schedule an appointment. Since I already went elsewhere (along with another family member) it will be another two years before I can find out if their service has improved. But I give them credit for responding. read more

The eye doctors are outstanding and the exam is very thorough. The optical shop, however, needs improvement. There is one man who works there who clearly does not know what he is doing, prefers to chat with the receptionist in the ophthalmology center across the room, and is downright rude to the customers. One time he broke my brand new glasses while adjusting them. Today I drove 1/2 hour to pick up my childrens' glasses, at 2PM, and there was a typed up sign taped to a glasses case saying that he was out for lunch and would return in 45 minutes. Who has time to wait 45 minutes?? This should be clearly communicated if this is a regular occurrence; now we have to go back and waste another hour. Thank God we only have to go here once a year. read more

Horrible customer service. Called the contact lens department to see if we could get some lenses for my cousin who lost hers while visiting. Along with people who had very poor phone etiquette and having to call about 6 times to get through, still no help. After having worked at an eye institute, this is a poor excuse for one. read more

I needed an emergency visit, was seen quickly and received excellent service from the receptionist, students and Doctor.

I too saw the bad reviews and can only assume that ownership has changed. Service was great upon entering. I had only a very short wait. The optometrist was friendly and patient and knowledgeable. All in all, a very positive experience here. read more

I needed a checkup for my child. Took 2 minutes to navigate their phone tree. Then another 20 minutes on hold... "All representatives are currently busy...". At 20 minutes I gave up. Not sure how they're in business. If their scheduling line can't be bothered to schedule new customers, probably not a great health-care choice. Yikes. read more

I called for an appointment and was put on hold for over 20 minutes. So I figured I'd just stop in since I live soooo close. I walk in today and ask if I can make an appointment, and the front desk clerk says, "We have an automated appointment system for all 3 sites; please call this number," and hands me a business card. I, in shock, said, "well is there no way to make an appt now because I did call that number and was on hold for a long time." Clerk lady informs very nicely and politely that she is currently working on a project that she will be doing all morning, but if I want to come back in the afternoon she will be glad to make an appointment for me. Me, still stunned, looking around wondering if I am being punked, said "thank you" and left. I should also add, that the entire place was dead empty. Will definitley not be returning even if it is down the street from my house. read more

If you don't mind waiting 22 minutes for someone to pick up the phone then this place is for you. Customer service? Forgetaboutit! Their attitude is: "you need us, we don't need you." $123.00 for an eye exam, including glaucoma test. You can get a much better deal at JC Penney, Montgomery Mall: $65.00 for full exam including glaucoma test and great deals on eyeglasses. Call for appointment. Doctors are in only a couple days a week but the difference in service and price is certainly worth the trip to Montgomeryville. Nicetown, Olney, East and West Oak Lane, Germantown and Mt. Airy businesses and services are borderline third-world quality. If you have mobility do not settle for sub-standard rip-off service. These businesses prey on people who cannot travel beyond a 4-5 mile radius of their homes and depend on SEPTA for transport. read more

I am a new patient to this practice. While the call center who schedules appointments (from a central location someplace) isn't the greatest, the in-person staff is EXCEPTIONAL. I had a very thorough eye exam. Shortly after the appointment I had two (unrelated) situations arise. They handled everything quickly and thoroughly and even fit me in for an emergency appointment, same day! Dr. Pelino is absolutely wonderful--explained everything thoroughly, put my mind at ease, and really seems to genuinely care. I thought no one could be better than my last eye doctor (who passed away recently) but I have been lucky enough to find Dr. Pelino and his staff. They are efficient and kind and very good at what they do. I plan to stay with this practice even if my insurance changes. I got a new prescription for glasses but didn't get them filled there so I can't speak to the optical center that's attached. read more