retina institute of Illinois

"My wife and I visited this facility this morning and were deeply traumatized. She was referred to this facility for loss of her peripheral vision. When making her appointment they quoted her $300 for self pay. She asked before confirming if there was a possibility to make a partial payment and bill the remaining balance as this was an unexpected emergency. They told her that it should be fine and scheduled her. We flew in from Minnesota and went directly here. Once we arrived they stated they couldn’t see her without her paying $300 and proceeded to send her on her way full of anxiety and pain. I had to advocate for them to provide alternative locations because they refused to see her. They gave us a location that was over 45 minutes away and consistently went directly to voicemail. We were at this location for 45 minutes trying our hardest to be seen. They suggested using our credit card, taking out a loan and signing up for Medicare, when she already has Molina! Once we finally gave up and decided to go to the ER, they refused to give her a doctors note stating she was there for 45 minutes for her job because she didn’t see the doctor. She STILL wasted 45 minutes of her time from her employment to come to this place that wouldn’t even see her. It is disgusting to know that this is how this location treats patients in emergency situations. Lake County is a predominantly low-income area. Although we are not low income, but having issues with our insurance switching over- it pains me to know other people may have these issues. If so please do not go here, go directly to your nearest ER where they will provide CT and all other necessary measures without the additional stress and suffering."

"Staff members are kind,, super knowledgeable, professional and organized. I've used Dr. Chee primarily, and Dr. Rao when he wasn't available. Dr Chee and Dr. Rao both are extremely thorough, explain things in full and are extremely knowledgeable in every aspect. Can't say enough good about the people and the place both!"

"I was there to see Dr. Chee, and he did a good examination of my eyes. I do not have insurance, and I paid $300 for the visit. He asked me to come back in 6 weeks for evaluation. I asked the front desk lady if I have to pay when I come back in 6 weeks. She said just if the Dr does some different exam. I come back for my follow-up, he did exactly the same exam he did before. Before I left, I asked the front desk lady again if I have to pay for that, and she said no. After a month, I received a $170 bill in my house, a follow-up charge. I called for billing inquiries, and she said it was an employee mistake and I have to pay for it. I called the office and it was the same thing, they said they are sorry, but it was a mistake and I have to pay for it. I asked twice, and receive the same answer, and in the end, I have to pay for their mistake. I will not come back to that office again, never."

"Even though the techs were very nice & accommodating, I won't come back. Especially the guy with the bow tie. He was funny & I could talk to him; he made me feel better. Dr. Chee made me feel very uncomfortable."

"Ive been a patient of Dr Micheals for over 10 years.All of his staff are amazing.I hate having my eyes touched and drops used to be a struggle.Now I can get the drops,pressure check and even my eyes held open without anxiety.This is due primarily to his gentle understanding techs and his great patience with my issues.."