Retina Associates

My ophthalmologist referred me to Dr. Vu at Retina Associates. They saw me the next day, which was fortunate for me because it was the last day of my summer vacation from work.
I did have to wait in the waiting room, but at least it was comfortable. Upon paying my co pay, they gave me a folder with bios on all the doctors — pretty impressive careers!
My retina exam was very thorough, with high tech equipment, and lots of blasts of light into my eyes. In the end, there was nothing to be concerned about. Dr. Vu explained everything, and sent my results to my referring doctor.
My only tip is to park on the street or in the garage kitty corner from the Montgomery Center (Both are currently under construction). You’ll save money, except if arrive after five pm, them it is free.

I’m feeling guilty because I’m one of those people who probably cause them to overbook. My regular eye doctor told me to call him right away if I had certain symptoms. This morning I had those symptoms, but Dr. Ephraim was out of town so he called Retina Associates and asked them to see me this afternoon. I’ve worked in doctor’s offices and know sometimes you have unexpected cases that need to be seen and they disrupt the regular schedule. When I called the staff was very nice. I arrived a few minutes before my scheduled time and the waiting room was almost full. (I must say though, some patients had 3 or 4 family members waiting with them. Not sure why.) Patients were being called back regularly, and all things considered, I’ve had a lot longer waits in some other doctors’ offices.
Dr. Vu was extremely nice. I told him I had already talked to Dr. Ephraim about my condition so that he didn’t have to take a lot of time going over what I’d already been told. The technician/​nurse had already taken some history and dilated my eyes. Dr. Vu did the exam, declared that things were stable and gave me follow-​up instructions. He was extremely nice, even laughed at some of my silly asides. But more important was professional and knowledgeable.

The staff is really helpful and sweet. I agree with MaJ C’s review, they do double book and there is only one Doctor. He is really nice and very informative, he definitely taught me a few things! When I saw him the second time he was able to finally understand why I was having issues passing the peripheral tests @ Lens Crafters. I randomly mentioned how blind I am (–10) and then he went on to explain what shape my eyeball is due to to my Myopia. He continued to explain the worst case scenario’s of what could happen through old age due to Myopia. I really appreciated how he explained everything, I just wished they made it standard to ask what prescription you have… I think it would help.
There isn’t a lot of parking in downtown silver spring, there’s street parking, but I don’t know what sort of signs are posted. I took the train to get here and walked the rest of the way. You’ll know you’re going into the right building if you see the restaurant «Golden Flame». The security guard was very nice but didn’t ask me if I was a visitor or not (not sure if he’s supposed to).

Helpful staff, (when they are not on personal calls)
only one Doctor, for a room full of patients.
He was incredibly informative, and friendly, and made you feel more like a friend than a patient.
Still, I would prefer they not over-​book appts. You feel more like a pay check and less of a patient.