Sanford Bemidji Eye Center & Optical

Best eye care I've ever received. I can't imagine going anywhere else. I feel heard and have always been treated with respect. The Drs are extremely knowledgeable, caring, and go out of their way to find answers.

The nurse was extremely courteous and listened to everything that I had to say. She answered all of my questions and prepared me to see the doctor. The doctor was just as courteous answered my questions. I was very satisfied with my visit.

The young man who did almost all of my eye exam, 5 gold stars! He was funny, kind, patient and understanding! The glasses? Definitely 1 star. I can't see out of the prescription or the bifocals. Doctor is giving me the run around I bought 2 pairs of glasses and I can't see out of either one of them. NOW I have to take time off work to go in and deal with the optical "team" before I MIGHT be able to see the doctor! What a circus!

Always a pleasure to go for my annual checkup at the Sanford eye clinic. Everyone is pleasant,, appointment is usually on time, and I so appreciate all of the procedures being clearly explained before being done. It's a professional environment with great communication and expertise.

Allow me to start with how impressed I was with everything from start to finish! I have ongoing eye issues and at almost 70 I am terrified of muscular degeneration, as my grandmother had it and it ruined the last of her 97 years. I had been seeing scintillating scotamas for a couple of days (swirly sparkles in gel) and was concerned. I called, as I did not want to take a chance, but mostly I did not want to waste the Opthamology team's time if I didn't need to be seen. The team member who answered the phone was patient, kind and I truly felt heard (I know that has become an overused phrase like "toxic"), but I truly felt her undivided attention! After a brief hold she reigned and asked if I could be there by 1pm. I told her I was on my way! When I arrived I was checked in quickly and my initial work-up was done a very knowledgeable tech, she had a great vibe to be in health care! I saw the doctor within a very few minutes and she gave me a very thorough exam. She shared the results of my vascular exam and reassured me that at this time, I have no signs. Of course, she explained that doesn't mean I am guaranteed to never get it, but it looks good for my age. At almost 70, I have hopes to eventually retire (hahaha), which is now 10-12 hours a day on Photoshop with my buddy Mac. Of course, when I do cut back I have two closets full of canvases and art stuff to enjoy some painting. So, being able to see is something I will do whatever they tell me to keep my eyes working! I even take those horse capsule AREDS2 twice a day! Again, I felt seen and heard by Dr. Germaine Cheslock and I appreciated her patience with me. The entire team from my phone call on were wonderful. Patient, kind and looked at me when they were talking to me. Your staff took a scary day and turned it into day with info that brought me comfort and hope! They each worked together and made my life better! Please, if you feel it is appropriate my praise with them. Now, I'm also looking at Three Very Happy Dogs! They were in a tither yesterday when I was rushing around, blathering about my eyes! My Deepest Appreciation, Kathy Dannel Vitcak PS - Attached are the three dogs!

I needed to have a referral for an eye procedure and Dr Shandfeld took extra time with me to find the specialist best suited for me,

Dr Sant was very charming. So was Sheila. And best part - was taken in on time and both had read my file PRIOR to my appointment.

My experience here could not be better. The receptionists are happy to see you and really helpful. The waiting room was not crowded and my appointment was not rushed. They are caring and professional and just take care of you in a relaxed, pleasant place that has nice ambience. My doctor, Dr. Shanfeld is caring and friendly.