Claremont Optometry Group

They bill for services they did not provide. I specifically stated I didn’t want unnecessary exams because I didn’t want to be billed for things I didn’t need– months later I get a bill for services not rendered. Unethical. The doctor was great– the billing practices are shady.
I am considering calling my insurance company to let them know about this.

I’ve been coming here for around 5 years, and have had a great experience every time.
The Doc — Dr. Baggarly is fantastic! The first time I came, I realized that my previous prescription (issued by a major chain, usually found in malls, that shall not be named, but ends in «afters») was inaccurate. I’ve been coming here ever since, and have never had a problem with my contacts. I visited again today for my eye exam, and will continue coming here for contacts and glasses. He’s a perfectionist when it comes to getting your prescription as accurate as possible, which is what you want… right?
The optician — Amber was great! She made an excellent recommendation for glasses, and knew exactly what I was looking for (even though I didn’t). She had a thorough knowledge of the different lens options, and explained them without the usual technical jargon. I’ll be back to see her for some sunglasses soon.
In summary, go to Claremont Optometry to get it done right, the first time. If you want cheap & fast, go elsewhere… Then come here to get it fixed. Cheap is expensive.

I picked this optometrist because she is near my home. My previous optometrist, who was retiring soon, was so slow that I had to wait for as much as two hours for my appointment. I appreciated that the staff and Dr. Johannsen were prompt, efficient, and friendly, and I had no problems my first visit. I also liked that the office had new equipment and that my pupils didn’t have to be dilated. When I returned a year later, I had trouble with one of the tests (this doctor gives more tests than my previous one did) and agreed to take a more extensive (and expensive) test. I still had some trouble, but it didn’t seem to be anything serious, and my eyesight was good enough that I didn’t need to change prescriptions. I also know from talking to my brother (who is not quite two years older) and a high school classmate that my eyesight is better than that of many people in their late sixties. My memory, however, is not as good, so I am not one hundred percent certain that I didn’t make an appointment in November for May. I remember agreeing to come back in May but have no recollection of making a May appointment. When I received an e-​mail notification from the Claremont Group a couple of weeks ago, I ignored it because I had too much going on and knew I didn’t really need to take that costly test again. I wasn’t in danger of going blind. I also ignored the telephone call. Today I received a notice claiming that I owed $ 50 for skipping an appointment. When I looked at the deleted message, I saw that it was not a reminder to make an appointment (as I thought), but a notification of an appointment, which I was supposed to confirm by clicking on «Confirm» (I, of course, did not confirm it). There was no information in that e-​mail message about what would happen if I missed the appointment. I also did not hear any warning about paying for a missed appointment in the telephone message, but then I couldn’t really hear what that person was saying because she was speaking so softly. I knew the call was from the optometrist because I have caller ID. I will not pay $ 50 and will not return to this optometrist. There are plenty of optometrists in my area, and even if there weren’t, I (who don’t like to drive more than ten minutes) would drive to Pasadena or even San Fernando to see an optometrist before I would go to an office whose policy seems to be to rip off seniors. Beware!

Thanks Dr. Baggarly and Amber for taking care of my vision needs. Everyone at the office is kind and very efficient.

Dr Baggarly has been my optometrist for the past 5 years and he is great! But unfortunately today will be the last time I come here due to the office staff service. I gave it a second chance, but was disappointed again. I had to wait 35 minutes just to pick up my sons glasses that did not require any adjustments. He tried them on and that was it. There was no need for us to wait that long. My husband went in a couple of weeks ago to order my sons glasses and he also waited about 45 minutes to do so. I also had to keep calling to get status of the glasses which we were told it would be about 2 weeks. It really took about 3 weeks, which was not a big deal. But no one called me to tell me they were ready. I had to keep calling to check on them. I get much better service at Costco Optical and much closer to home. I don’t mind driving a bit further for good service, but I definitely won’t keep doing it for this type of service. #bummedexcustomer

Great customer service by Amber and patience getting the best frame at the best price. Dr. Johansen was fabulous.

Dr. Baggarly has been great. He is a perfectionist so the first year as his patient, I think it took 3 visits to get my contact prescription correct. Now, however, my annual exams are quick and I happily referred him to 2 women at my office. Contrary to what some others have experienced, he always listens and seems to really want the best for his patient. The staff is friendly and the facility is clean/​state-​of-​the-​art.

My original review was removed because there was not enough detail. I don’t put details because I get annoyed when I read reviews with too many details. I am posting my original review in short and long forms (adding details for those who like long boring stories).
The Short Version
Nothing but problems from beginning to end. When I came in for an eye exam the doctor didn’t listen to my needs.
My Significant Other (SO) found this place on his own and had a slew of problems. His were worse than mine from not being heard or believed by employees to the prescriptions coming in wrong to taking twice as long to get corrected glasses back. He has had to deal with a new person every time, which has led to incredible confusion in picking up his paid for merchandise, and frustration concerning what money is due for services. Will not return and am actively warning others to not go.
The Long Version
Nothing but problems from beginning to end. When I came in for an eye exam the doctor didn’t listen to my needs. I had asked for bifocals as I am far sited and need reading glasses. I am a graduate student and find myself having to look at text and then immediately look up to see lecture notes on a screen. I wanted glasses that I could keep on instead of having to remove them and replace them every time I looked up from my book or computer screen. The doctor (several years ago) told me that my prescription was not strong enough to be a bother and that he would simply have the whole lens made with the correction and that I would simply get used to them if I wear them all of the time. I tried, I didn’t get used to them, and I rarely wear them. Such a waste of money. When I went with my SO the same doctor told my SO that it would be no problem for him to make bifocals in this manner. If it was no problem then why did he not just do it for me when I asked?
My SO found this place on his own and had a slew of problems. His experience was worse than mine from not being heard — he told the employee he needed scratch resistant glasses that did not easily smudge because he works in a shop and that he had bad experiences with coatings. Employee highly recommended coatings. When we picked up glasses, a different employee says she never uses coatings in part because they scratch easily. I can’t recall all of the details, but he felt very pressured to get the coatings and ended up not feeling like his actual preferences were taken into account during the ordering process.
The glasses were made incorrectly. We ordered 2 pair, which were made by different labs (one in house and one insurance). Both pair came in with the pupils being a centimeter off on each eye. This caused unbelievable headaches. We returned the glasses, but could only get 1 pair repaired at a time as my SO needed to keep a pair to see and he also wanted to have a different finish done to his daily use pair. This all happened around the holidays and though we were told the glasses would be ready in 2 weeks it took more than 4 for us to get them. He picked up the new glasses and turned in the second pair. Which then took another really long time to get back.
He has had to deal with a new person every time, which has led to incredible confusion in picking up his paid for merchandise, and frustration concerning what money is due for services. One pair of the glasses had elective work added and when he picked those up he was not charged. However, when he went to get the second pair the clerks would not release them until the initial bill was paid. He has no problem paying for work, but was confused as to why a non-​payment repair pickup was needing payment. He was in a hurry and no one informed him of the due balance when they told him the glasses were ready.
In the end glasses that were ordered in mid/​early-​November did not fully come into our possession until February. And when I did go into to retrieve the glasses and pay the bill, his Prada frames were given to us in an ill-​fitting generic case (seriously the case won’t close with the glasses in it). On top of it all there is a rude clerk who greets people who are entering, but only after you stand there confused as heck (no instructions about signing in) for several uncomfortable minutes.
I was contacted by a company representative after I posted the original bad review, but I can’t find the message. The rep was asking how they could fix this.
The fact is I just wanted good service, not an apology after bad service. I want the Prada case that goes with the glasses we bought (we returned the glasses in said case, so I don’t know why we didn’t get it back).
Will not return and am actively warning others to not go.

Nice facility and friendly staff, but not the best. My prescription is pretty strong and since getting my new glasses I haven’t been able to see as well out of my right eye. Definitely not 20/​20, even with the glasses on. I also get headaches when staring at a screen for a long time, which is basically my job and life. I’ve never had headaches like this before, so I’m assuming it’s the glasses. I’ve had them for about 6 months now and the vision and headaches haven’t improved. Also, the employee who helped me pick out my glasses seemed a little impatient – like I took too long to pick out a frame – and unhappy that I wanted to try on some frames from the mens side.
Overall, good facility and (mostly) very friendly staff, but not guaranteed to get the best eye care.

I have been a patient at Claremont Optometry for approx. 7 years. It was more guest-​friendly when it was a smaller business. Now that it is a larger business the technicians and office people act as if I am doing them a service by being a client. Why upgrade your whole office and not train people on customer service? Noone looks happy to be working here. Maybe they don’t pay their employees enough. Not to mention one technician who talks so loud the entire office has to hear his optical advice (not sure if he is there still). Thanks Claremont Optometry for treating me like I’m bothering you for trying to get a service I pay for! Really nice. BTW, the doctor herself gives high quality service. But the whole management of the office gets a thumbs down.

Too expensive. I have coverage ended up paying just as much without coverage. There is nothing there that makes this place better than any other place. Front desk was nice. Optometrist was pushy to get additional services so you can pay more when not needed. I wouldn’t come back for sure.

I’ve been a patient here for years and I intend to keep coming back, even tho I’ve moved out of the area. Dr. Annnnnnnnnn is not only knowledgeable, caring, thorough and current on modern techniques, but she is the nicest person I’ve ever met. Her staff are efficient, have the latest tools, and are accommodating of my requests.
The eyewear selection is very good, if not a bit overpriced. I always find something I like.
Look no further. You’ve found your optometrist.

Shitty hours. With my work schedule I’m only able to come in on Saturdays. They told me my glasses would be ready in 7 – 10 days. After waiting 3 weeks (21 days) to get a txt that my glasses are ready.
I come in thinking I’m picking up and on my way.
Not the case.
You have to sign in and wait to be called in. Maybe they should specify that so that I’m not wasting my time waiting on someone. If I need to make an appointment to pick up my ready to pick up glasses, then tell me that. Because obviously my glasses are not ready to be picked up. Will not be buying from here!

My family and I have seeing Dr. Bagerly for many years now and each time we come into the office we are treated like old friends! The staff is friendly and professional but not stuffy, I hate stuffy fake business, but this office is personable and very fun for my kids to visit!

Loved seeing Dr. Baggarly for my eye appointment, did not enjoy having to wait 4 weeks for my glasses to be delivered!
Dr. Baggarly was knowledgeable and extremely comforting during my eye exam. I felt so comfortable as we casually chatted throughout my visit and is the reason I give 3 stars.
The communication (or lack thereof) of this offices staff, is non-​existent and I am wishing I had read the previous reviews to save myself some time and headaches.
When I first ordered my glasses, I was given the «standard» 7 – 10 days waiting period. That’s fine. When two weeks came and I hadn’t received any call that they were ready, I called to see what was going on. I was told they didn’t know and they would call when they came in. Another week goes by and no call to pick-​up, so I call again. Now I am told there is a delay with my insurance and they aren’t sure what it is, but they are awaiting a callback. I decide to call my insurance myself and spoke to a very helpful representative who informs me that my order wasn’t even sent out until 2 WEEKS AFTER MY ORIGINAL APPOINTMENT, so they are still waiting to receive them! So how could this office even quote me a 2 week wait, when they could never meet that deadline?! And this whole time I was kept in the dark and only found out the truth by doing the research myself?! Absolutely inexcusable for an office claiming to be professional.
I will save myself the time and money exit time and go to Sam’s Club where my sunglasses prescription was filled in 2 DAYS and was MUCH cheaper than anything this office was going to charge me!

My boyfriend went here to see Dr. Johannsen, he has seen her many times before, and was amazed at the professionalism and knowledge he experienced. In his words you don’t get that kind of service and knowledge at Costco, he is willing to pay a bit more for the service he gets from the optometrists at Claremont. We would highly recommend this office if you want knowledgeable and caring optometrists.

Dr. Johannson has taken care of my entire family’s eyes for the past dozen years or more. We are a group of 6. She is a wonderfully skilled and caring doctor. My son has a very challenging case and she has been able to increase his vision immeasurably. Her solutions are always precise and advantageous.
If you want the best prescription and whole eye care, she is the doctor to see.

Today, I called once and was on hold for 10 minutes, no answer. Then I hung up and called again and was on hold for another 25 minutes. Then once again hung up and called a 3^rd time and finally I was spoken to.
Once I was able to speak to the receptionist (Pamela, if I’m not mistaken) for a contact prescription that I needed for this weekend. I was told that they could not offer me a copy of my prescription issued during my last visit in 2012. That’s all they said. They did they offer me any other options or alternatives as to how I could be able to see for the next few days. Just sad.
During my first and only visit to this doctor in 2012, my experience was poor. I was seen by Dr. Brad and all it seemed he really cared about was his silly technology but he forgot what his true core of business was, to check and verify the health of the EYE!!!
I went in and he said I needed glasses, duh, tell me something i don’t know. Then he did some fancy thing with his tech and analyzed the current prescription to my current glasses, he adjusted the focus and then created a new prescription for new glasses, and batta bing batta boom, I was out to the glasses fitting area. This is where I waited roughly a good 35 minutes to be assisted.
At the end of the day, I was out with a new eye glasses prescription, a fat bill, and really no clue on the health and condition of my eyes.

I have been going to this practice for years. Dr Ann is great, but since they moved, their front staff has become intolerable. I was told by the receptionist that my insurance was not accepted.
After a few calls, I found they did accept it. I needed a new power for my contacts and they ordered the right power, bur the wrong contact for samples. The receptionist actually argued with me about what brand contacts I use. Then finally, she said they would be ordered. I called back a week later and guess what? There were no contacts and no record of an order. Time to go elsewhere and yes they are overpriced.

I also had a terrible experience at Claremont Optometry. Service was AWFUL. I checked my insurance to make sure that I’m covered with them with my blue cross blue shield ppo plan. and YUP theyre listed as a provider. I call to make the appointment, and when i tell them my insurance, the receptionist tells me that i need to check with the insurer because its usually another company that handles vision. I call my insurance, and no, BCBS PPO from Maryland does not go through another company. I call COG back and let them know, and I got so much attitude. Clearly they didn’t believe me. But they booked my appointment and told me they would run it and call me if there was an issue.
I never got a call, and arrived at my appointment, only to be asked if I FIGURED OUT MY INSURANCE STUFF. Why would I «figure it out» when I was told that I would get a call if something was not good with the insurance?
The receptionist tries to call BCBS, but their offices were closed. Then, the receptionist goes into the back, comes back, and tells me they don’t take my insurance.
WTF. WHY DID I WASTE SO MUCH TIME WRESTLING WITH THEM ON THE PHONE AND DRIVING ALL THE WAY OUT FOR MY APPOINTMENT ONLY TO GET KICKED OUT???
AND why is my insurance listed ON THEIR WEBSITE and ON BCBS WEBSITE as one that they take?
Ugh. I, too, should have looked at their reviews before I got an appointment. What an infuriating experience.