Best Eye Doctors In Hayward, CA

Why trust us?

VisionCenter is committed to connecting patients to the best local healthcare providers. We reviewed Hayward Optometrists in Hayward, Hayward, and chose this list based on their:

  • Qualifications and education
  • Years of experience
  • Reputation and resources
  • Past customer experiences

We used AI technology to analyze Hayward reviews from Google, Yelp, and Facebook to find patients' favorite surgeons in the area. Our team then went through and hand picked our list of the best Optometrists in Hayward.

Jodi, Shepard, O.D., provider of EYEXAM of CA

4.9 out of 5 (734 reviews)

500 Southland Mall, Hayward, CA 94545

Summary

Dr. Shepard provides attentive, caring service during exams, explaining results clearly. Patients appreciate her friendly expertise and thorough, high-tech exams.

Highlights

  • Dr. Jodi and her team provide great attention and care during eye exams, with quick and non-intrusive exams.
  • The doctors, particularly Dr. Shepard, are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, providing thorough explanations and answering all questions during the eye exam.
  • The eye care center utilizes advanced technology, such as OCT and Optomap, for detailed exams and digital retinal imaging, ensuring comprehensive eye health evaluations.

Eye Spy Optometric

4.8 out of 5 (123 reviews)

299 Southland Mall, Hayward, CA 94545

Summary

Customers appreciated the professionalism and thoroughness of the optometrists, as well as the helpful and knowledgeable staff. However, some experienced issues with incorrect contact lens prescriptions and delayed orders. Overall, customers recommend this eye care center for its excellent customer service and wide selection of glasses.

Highlights

  • Friendly and Professional Staff: Multiple reviews mention that the staff at this eye care center are friendly, knowledgeable, and provide great customer service.
  • Thorough Eye Exams: Reviewers appreciate the thoroughness of the eye exams conducted by the optometrists at this location. The optometrists take the time to explain the information and make patients feel comfortable throughout the process.
  • Wide Selection of Frames: Customers rave about the extensive inventory of high-quality glasses frames available at this eye care center. The wide selection allows for a variety of style choices to suit different budgets.

Family Vision

5 out of 5 (101 reviews)

19661 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94541

Summary

This eye care center receives excellent reviews for its professional, thorough eye exams and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Patients highlight positive experiences with Drs. Najla and Shyu. They also note the office’s cleanliness and helpful service. Many reviewers plan to return and recommend this center to others.

Highlights

  • Friendly and professional staff: Multiple reviews mention the staff being friendly, welcoming, and helpful, making patients feel comfortable during their eye exams.
  • Thorough and detailed eye exams: Many reviews praise the optometrists for their thoroughness, attention to detail, and the time they take to ensure an accurate prescription and make sound recommendations based on the results of the examination.
  • Excellent customer service: The reviews also mention the great customer service provided by the receptionists and the entire staff, from scheduling appointments online to educating patients about the eye exam process and eye health.

Primary Eyecare Optometrics

4.7 out of 5 (109 reviews)

2687 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley, CA 94546

Summary

The eye care center has received glowing reviews for their friendly staff and knowledgeable doctors. Patients highlight Dr. Dea as thorough and attentive. However, some reviewers noted issues with scheduling and customer service from certain office staff. In general though, patients overwhelmingly recommend this center.

Highlights

  • Friendly and helpful staff: The front desk and assistants were praised for being friendly, patient, and helpful with answering questions and providing thorough care.
  • Knowledgeable and thorough doctors: Many reviewers specifically mentioned the doctors, such as Dr. Dea and Dr. Osias, as being knowledgeable, thorough, and patient. They were praised for explaining the eye exam process, addressing concerns, and providing excellent care.
  • Professional and top-notch technology: The office was described as professional, thorough, and on top of things. The technology used for eye screenings was praised as top-notch, providing a comprehensive examination of eye health.

Vision Gallery Optometric Center

4.7 out of 5 (83 reviews)

20211 Patio Dr, Castro Valley, CA 94546

Summary

Patients describe their experience at Dr. Wong’s Vision Gallery as thorough, professional and friendly. The office receives positive reviews for its COVID safety measures, cleanliness, comprehensive eye exams and frame selection assistance. Patients highly recommend Vision Gallery for its efficient, caring service.

Highlights

  • Friendly and accommodating staff: The staff at this eye care center are described as super nice, friendly, and welcoming. They take the time to explain procedures, answer questions, and provide recommendations.
  • Thorough and knowledgeable optometrists: The optometrists at this center are praised for their thorough work and extensive knowledge. They take the initiative to ensure that patients understand their unique eye health and provide recommendations for eye care and health.
  • Great selection of frames: The center offers a wide selection of luxury brands, including Gucci, Armani, Ray Bans, and Tom Ford. Patients appreciate the upscale collection and have been able to find frames that they love.

Mark R. Mandel MD

5 out of 5 (63 reviews)

20400 Lake Chabot Rd #302, Castro Valley, CA 94546

Summary

Dr. Mandel’s eye care center receives rave reviews for amazing care, knowledgeable staff, and clear explanations. Patients report excellent LASIK results and vision improvements. They appreciate the professional, friendly staff and emphasis on safety. Patients highly recommend Dr. Mandel and his eye care center.

Highlights

  • Kind and knowledgeable staff: Many reviews praised the staff at this eye care center for being kind, considerate, and knowledgeable. They were commended for their ability to explain procedures and answer questions, making patients feel at ease during their exams and surgeries.
  • Excellent results and satisfied patients: Numerous reviews mentioned being highly satisfied with the results of their eye exams and procedures. Patients reported improved vision and a life-changing experience after undergoing LASIK surgery with Dr. Mandel and his team.
  • Professional and organized: Reviewers appreciated the professionalism and organization of the office and staff. They mentioned that the process was clearly explained and well-managed, from pre-op to post-op care, which added to their overall positive experience.

LensCrafters

4.3 out of 5 (98 reviews)

500 Southland Mall, Hayward, CA 94545

Summary

The majority of reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, efficient service, and quick glasses turnaround at this eye care center. However, some mention long wait times, incorrect hours, and insurance issues.

Highlights

  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff: Multiple reviews mention the staff and optometrists at this eye care center as being knowledgeable, friendly, and providing a good experience during eye exams.
  • Efficient service and quick turnaround: Several reviews highlight the efficiency of this eye care center, including quick turnaround times for prescription sunglasses and glasses. Some even mention getting glasses ready in just one hour, compared to the typical wait time of 2-3 weeks at other places.
  • Helpful and accommodating staff: There are multiple mentions of the staff going above and beyond to assist customers, including helping find specific frames, helping with contact lens orders, and providing explanations and assistance throughout the eyewear purchase process.

Eyebright Optometry

4.7 out of 5 (49 reviews)

3550 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley, CA 94546

Summary

Eyebright Optometry is highly recommended for eye exams and glasses. Patients describe Dr. Nguyen and staff as kind, professional, and thorough. Many mention Dr. Nguyen’s attentiveness in explaining exam results, educating on eye health, and providing tips. The staff assists in frame selection with friendliness and patience.

Highlights

  • The staff at Eyebright Optometry are kind, professional, and quick to respond to inquiries.
  • Dr. Nguyen takes the time to explain exam results and answers any questions, offering helpful insight on eye care and contact lens usage.
  • The office has a great range of glasses frames, and the staff is friendly, patient, and helpful in selecting frames.
  • Dr. Nguyen is thorough, provides educational explanations during appointments, and does not rush through appointments.
  • The office is great with kids, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for young patients.
  • The practice takes COVID-19 precautions seriously, ensuring the safety of patients and staff.
  • Dr. Nguyen is intuitive, patient, and highly knowledgeable, accommodating difficult vision conditions.
  • The optometrist and staff are kind, knowledgeable, and provide great service.
  • The selection of frames is impressive, and the staff helps clients choose the best options for their needs and preferences.

Choosing the Right Eye Care Provider

The kind of eye doctor you should visit depends on your issues. You may need an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or both.

Optometrists provide primary eye care, including vision tests and prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses. You may also visit an optometrist for eye infections or issues that don’t require surgery. 

For more complicated issues, your optometrist can refer you to an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care. They can treat a broader range of medical conditions. 

When choosing an eye care clinic, look for a place that can address your specific needs. You may ask your friends and family for recommendations. Reading reviews online and checking with your insurance company can also help you find the right provider.

Understanding Eye Conditions and Their Treatment

The most common eye problems include refractive errors, age-related macular degeneration, and cataracts. Symptoms of these eye conditions include blurred vision, headaches, and eye strain. 

Once you experience severe pain in your eye, it’s important to visit an eye doctor immediately. Other symptoms, such as fever and eye discharge, may indicate a more severe infection. This is why seeking medical attention is essential if you experience these symptoms.

Treatment for eye conditions will vary depending on your symptoms. Eye doctors sometimes collaborate with other specialists to determine the best course of action.

Maintaining Your Vision Health

Proper care and prevention are the best ways to maintain your vision health. Here are some tips on how to ensure that your eyes stay in the best condition possible:

  • Protective eyewear. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection outdoors or safety goggles when working with tools can prevent eye damage.
  • Proper nutrition. Eating foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E can help you receive the proper nutrients to protect your eyes. Getting enough sleep and limiting alcohol consumption is also part of proper nutrition for eye care.
  • Regular breaks from screens. Follow the 20-20-20 rule when working with screens. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
  • Manage chronic conditions. Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension can also affect your eye health. Managing them can help decrease their effects on your eyes. 
  • Regular eye exams. Visiting your eye doctor regularly can help detect eye problems early on. If needed, they can provide proper treatment immediately to prevent further complications. 

Eye Care Insurance and Managing Costs

Insurance companies vary in terms of coverage when it comes to eye care. Vision insurance is usually separate from general health insurance.

You can save money and avoid surprises by consulting your insurance provider regarding coverage. Ask about your coverage for eye examinations, contact lenses or glasses, and other treatments. 

If you don’t have insurance, these financing options are available:

Vision Health Trends in California

  • Examining vision health as one ages reveals In 2018, 5.07% of Californians aged 40-64 were blind or had difficulty seeing, while 8.23% of those aged 65 and older experienced the same visual impairments. in California, signaling the need for proactive eye care.

Risk Factors Impacting Vision in California

  • A family history of eye issues, diabetes, and alcoholism can all influence vision health in California.
  • The The percentage of people in California with diabetes who were blind or had difficulty seeing in 2018 was more than twice as high as the overall percentage, indicating that having diabetes significantly increases the risk of vision problems in that state. and In California in 2018, the percentage of people who smoked tobacco and had difficulty seeing was higher (7.03%) than the overall percentage of people who had difficulty seeing (4.89%), indicating that smoking may increase the risk of vision problems in that state by approximately 2.14%. statistics underscore the impact of these factors on vision health.

Vision Impairment Statistics in California

  • In California, 4.89% of individuals report significant vision impairment, with specific age groups reporting varying degrees of difficulty.

Age-Specific Vision Challenges in California

  • Amongst those aged 18 to 39, 3.11% experience vision difficulties.
  • The percentage increases to 5.07% in the 40-64 age range.
  • Seniors over 65 in California face even higher rates at 8.23%.

Addressing Vision Health Beyond Age in California

  • Other factors such as diabetes and smoking contribute to vision impairment in California.
  • 11.5% of those with diabetes and 7.03% of smokers report difficulty seeing.

Children's Vision Health in California

  • Early vision care is crucial, with 68.81% of children in California having had their vision tested.
  • Of those, 0.5% report vision problems, emphasizing the need for early detection and care.

Proactive Vision Health Measures in California

  • Regular eye exams and UV protection are essential, especially considering the 4.89% of the population with vision impairment.
  • A healthy diet, smoking cessation, and regular breaks from screens contribute to better vision health, which can help mitigate the statistics on vision impairment in California.

Summary

Proper vision care is crucial for people of all ages. Your treatment will vary depending on your condition and issues. Finding the right eye care provider can help you receive the necessary treatment and care. 

Sources:

  1.  "Common Eye Disorders and Diseases." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 
  2. “Finding an Eye Doctor | National Eye Institute.” National Eye Institute.
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. FastStats - Health Insurance Coverage.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020. 
  4. "Healthy Vision Tips." National Eye Institute. 
  5. “Optometry.” UC Davis, 2017.
The information provided on VisionCenter.org should not be used in place of actual information provided by a doctor or a specialist.