Erik M. Ostler, MD

Review for Dr. Erik Ostler, MD - West Valley Medical Center - Saint Alphonsus - Vision Care Center of Idaho My family's experience with Dr. Ostler and his surgery coordinator Teresa D has been deeply disappointing. While his public statements emphasize compassion, accessibility, and "world-class care", our reality has been quite the opposite. My mom, who is facing the terrifying possibility of vision loss due to glaucoma, was treated with a lack of empathy and respect throughout her interactions. Surgery is already a stressful and vulnerable process--especially when it involves something as precious as eyesight, something he claims is a "most treasured sense and is fundamental to maintaining your high quality of life". Rather than offering reassurance or understanding, Dr. Ostler and his staff responded with coldness and condescension. When my mom missed an appointment and sincerely apologized, stating she did not get a reminder from the front desk as she usually does, she was met with a dismissive remark: "It is not their responsibility to remind you. It is not anybody's responsibility except yours to remember." This kind of response shows a troubling lack of compassion. Mistakes happen, and patients are overwhelmed. A little grace goes a long way. She also expressed concern about fasting before surgery due to her diabetes--a metabolic disorder that makes prolonged fasting medically difficult and potentially dangerous. Rather than acknowledging the seriousness of her condition, Dr. Ostler dismissed her concerns entirely and sided with the surgery coordinator Teresa D, who told her "You're not the only diabetic in the world and I can't move every patient around just for you". This is not just a lack of professionalism, but again reflects their lack of empathy and understanding toward patients and a common medical reality. Despite claiming to "put patients first" and "recognize the importance of trust," Dr. Ostler consistently sided with staff and dismissed valid concerns. There was no effort to validate the emotional toll this process has taken on my mom. Professionalism isn't just about credentials--it's about how you treat people when they're at their most vulnerable. I hope this review encourages reflection and a shift toward more humane, patient-centered care. Vision may be a treasured sense, but dignity and empathy are just as vital.

Recently had cataract surgery by Dr. Ostler and his amazing staff. He was very informative on my pre-visit, and checked with me after the surgery. He is thorough and conscientious. His staff is absolutely amazing. Really excellent teamwork. They handled my surgery prep and after surgery like the professionals that they are. All are friendly and make me feel that I was in good hands. I'd like to include the receptionist, too. This is one of the best medical teams I've ever encountered.

I have been a patient of Dr Jorge Martinez for over twenty five years. He performed cataract surgery on both my eyes. he, Lisa and the assisting staff did a marvelous professional job improving my eyesight dramatically. He monitored and took care of my glaucoma and eye health for years. When my glaucoma got to a point that I needed specialized care he referred me to DR ERIK OSTLER, a glaucoma Specialist in his office. I have been under Dr Ostler's care for the last four years years and he has been absolutely amazing. Dr Ostler always takes his time to listen to my concerns and answers all my question thoroughly. He makes me feel secure and trusting in his abilities. He has scheduled regular exams and tests to watch my glaucoma closely and has found effective eye care medications that work. Due to his outstanding care I have thus far avoided the need for surgery, leaving that option as a last resort. I occasionally call his office for advice and his staff relays my concerns to him. They respond to me within minutes. This is unique and impressive considering his workload and it shows me his personal dedication to each of his individual patients. I am impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. I consider myself very fortunate to be under his care and strongly recommend him to anyone seeking reliable, friendly and professional eye care. Let me also thank Brian and Mayra in the front office for making me feel welcome with their positive attitudes and very friendly and helpful manner.

Just had my 4 week post op checkup. My uncorrected distance vision is now between 20/15 and 20/20. Really amazing improvement. Dr. Ostler, his surgical staff, and office staff all were extremely professional great to work with.

Dr. Ostler recently removed my cataracts and I am amazed at the difference it has made. The staff was friendly and made everything comfortable. I highly recommend them.

Awesome Dr. knowledgeable and caring. Husband happy with his cataract surgery.

Getting ready to have my cataracts removed. Dr.Ostler is very nice. He explains everything thats happening and very knowledgeable. I'm very comfortable and confident about my procedures coming up. Highly recommend him. Update: Had my 1st eye done. What a great experience during my procedure they made me extremely comfortable and before I knew it I was done. Very friendly and professional. The setting makes you feel like your at a spa! Highly recommend!

Dr Ostler was fantastic, very thorough explaining the procedure and what to expect during and after. Very professional during and considerate of how I was doing, all in all it was a great experience. Highly recommend!