The Optical Shoppe, Dr. Paul Trapeni Jr

I’ve been going here for several years. Not sure what has happened to them over the past few years but visiting their office has become extremely frustrating.
Today, I had an appt for 11:45. For the last several days, I’ve gotten text message reminders, voicemails, and emails reminding me of the appt. Yesterday, I was asked to come in 15 minutes early. This morning I rec’d a text that my appointment was moved to 11:30. I changed my plans around at work to accommodate. I arrived at the front desk at 11:25. I filled out one sheet of paper and they copied my insurance card. I sat down in the waiting room at 11:30.
The waiting room had 5 or 6 people waiting when I arrived. I waited in the waiting room for 50 minutes. I asked the front desk why I was asked to come in early and my appt time was changed and no one had a clue. I ended up leaving.
Based on prior visits, surviving the waiting room doesn’t mean you are on the fast track to leaving anytime soon. Once you pass that hurdle, then you get to read the eye chart. Then back to the waiting room — or if you are lucky, on to your room… to wait. Then after 10 – 20 mins Dr Trapeni will visit. They you are rushed out to the saleswoman who pushes overpriced lenses and frames. Beware, she gets upset when you tell her you just need a copy of your prescription so you can order your glasses online for half the price.
They have always quoted me $ 300ish on basic glasses with none of the fancy lenses and add-​ons. My insurance pays $ 200 towards that amount. However, I learned a couple years ago, I can go online and get the EXACT same glass, plus all the upgraded lenses for less. For instance, had I gotten to see a doctor today, I was going to order online and get name brand eyeglasses (with upgraded lens) and sunglasses for $ 240 — TOTAL, that means only $ 40 out of pocket for TWO sets of glasses. This practice couldn’t come CLOSE to that price. I wish I could say the extra expense paid for better service, but after waiting 50 minutes for nothing, I don’t think that’s the case.