Travis Kliewer, O.D. - Shawnee Vision Source

Public Service Announcement: A Personal Experience at Vision Source in Shawnee I'd like to share a recent experience I had with Dr. Travis Kliewer at Vision Source in Shawnee--not out of anger, but to help others make informed decisions about their eye care. I was fortunate to get an earlier appointment due to a cancellation, which I appreciated since my original visit was still a couple of weeks away. When I arrived, I was greeted and checked in without issue. However, during the pre-exam, I declined dilation and the optional imaging test due to the high cost and my need to drive afterward to another appointment. I noticed this choice seemed to irritate the technician, who proceeded quickly through the initial steps without much explanation. My glasses, already broken, were handled without care and ended up more damaged. I politely asked whether the doctor would also be checking my prescription--something I value to ensure accuracy--and was told yes. While waiting, I received a message that a loved one was in the path of a tornado. Thankfully, she was quickly confirmed safe, but the moment added a bit of stress to my visit. Dr. Kliewer entered the room with high energy and we exchanged hellos. He immediately noted my decision to forgo the additional tests and seems instantly agitated. He commented that I would "need to do them next time." Moving on to the exam. I asked that we dim the light so I could properly focus. He seemed irritated. The exam itself felt unusual--he had me operate the phoropter (the lens machine) myself to find what "felt right" to me, which I've never encountered before. I mentioned difficulty with my vision, especially in one eye, but was told I didn't need a new prescription and hardly needed a prescription at all. I was again asked to adjust the machine myself, this time on the left eye. This was frustrating and confusing. When I expressed my concern, Dr. Kliewer abruptly ended the exam, stating that I was being difficult and that they couldn't help me. I admit I was caught off guard. I remained respectful but did let him know I found his bedside manner lacking. He then told me he would not charge me but said I could not be seen there again. Everything went left really quickly. As I left, he followed me out to the front desk, I could hear him approaching rapidly in a way that made me feel deeply uncomfortable. I quickly went to my car and locked the door. Later, I learned that I had been charged, and the office then sent a note to my insurance company stating I was agitated. No exam being completed. I've been a patient with this group for at least three years, and this experience was surprising and disheartening. I believe patients deserve compassionate care, especially in situations where emotions or stress might be present. We all have no idea what each other is going through. Our energy may not have matched that day--but I do think it's a professional's role to meet their patients where they are with grace and empathy. If you're considering eye care providers in Shawnee or Tecumseh, I encourage you to research your options and seek out someone whose approach and demeanor align with your needs. This is simply one person's experience, shared in the hope it may help others make informed choices.

Great service and great people!!!