Southwestern Eye Center

Both the tech and Dr. Palmer reviewed my previous medical records that I brought with me from another provider. They were patient and thoroughly explained all the procedures and exams during my visit. I would highly recommend Southwestern Eye.

Good people, good doctors. But their capability to assess the flow of patients is consistently poor. The reception room was packed and everyone was at least 1/2 hour past their appointment time when they were called.

Overall, my experience at Southwest Eye Center in Scottsdale was underwhelming. I scheduled my appointment online, completed all paperwork ahead of time, and arrived 10 minutes early. After checking in and paying at the kiosk, I waited about 35 minutes past my appointment time before being called back. The technician never introduced herself or acknowledged the delay, and I was escorted through several tests without any explanation of what they were or why they were being done. This was disappointing, especially since I noted in my paperwork that I hadn't seen an eye doctor in nearly 20 years. During the exam, the lack of communication continued. No one explained the numbing or dilation drops or what to expect from them. When I asked questions, the answers were brief and reactive rather than informative. I was also surprised to learn that the appointment didn't include a glasses or contacts prescription, and I would need to return for another visit to get one. Instead, I opted to pay an extra $65 that day to avoid taking more time off work. When the doctor came in, she was polite but impersonal -- minimal eye contact, a quick review of my chart, and little acknowledgment of the eye trauma I had mentioned. She attributed most of my vision changes to age and noted that the prescription provided would only cover glasses. To get a contact lens prescription, I'd need another appointment and an additional $85 fee. At checkout, no one offered guidance on next steps, frames, or follow-up. They also never explained my prescription or what any of the numbers meant -- which would've been especially helpful for someone who hasn't had an exam in two decades. If you simply need a basic eye exam and a prescription, this office can get the job done. But if you're looking for a more personable experience where communication, care, and patient education are priorities, I'd recommend exploring other options.

I really wanted to like this company and gave them so many opportunities to make it right. But realistically through my experience. The worst company I had ever been to! Dr Palmer won't help my vision as he claims at my age I should be at a -2 to -4. He doesn't believe me that I'm much higher than that which he wouldn't prescribe me a higher prescription. I been going for almost 2 yrs due to my insurance coverage and he still couldn't fix my prescription. Since he didn't believe me and wouldn't write a higher script he said he can't help me. So I flew back home to have my fav eye doctor help me. I have a double astigmatism in both eyes and -6.50 & -7.00 Now I can finally see!! The front desk is awful and unprofessional. I finally complained to Dr Palmer that no body is answering phones. I called over a dozen times in a week just to either make an appointment or cancel an appointment. Once I complained a couple times, they finally started picking up the phones. Still a hit/miss if they do answer. Dont leave a voicemail because they won't get back to you. As for wait times, expect being late to your appointment. They are not good at time management. The longest I had to wait + appointment + more waiting. I'm there for 2-4hrs waiting majority of the time. It's VERY rare if they are on time and you can get in and out. Also, keep an eye out on bills they like to over charge you!

I've been going to SWE for about 10 years. Always feel welcomed no matter the reason. Had Cataract surgery in 2017. Were very understanding with my questions in regards to the procedure. Dr. Palmer is always there if I have concerns.Very professional.

All the staff at the Miller Rd Scottsdale location were so friendly and helpful. While I'm just starting the cataract surgery process, so far I'd recommend SW Eye for anyone needing this procedure

Dr. Palmer is always professional, prompt and thorough. I've also have never had a technician who wasn't helpful and pleasant doing the pre exam. I also appreciate that they don't pressure you to get glasses the day of exam!

the young man that did all the checking on me is very good and seems to really like his job. I was very impressed by him. The dr-not talkative, not friendly-seemed in a hurry to get me out and really did not tell me anything about my eyes!