Dr. Patrick Chin, MD

I had cataract surgery with Dr Chin on April 8 of this year. Dr Chin was personable and competent. My eye is doing well. Unfortunately, his choice of anesthesia's did not agree with me. I was too aware, and somewhat uncomfortable during the surgery, and had horrible headaches, upset stomachs, and felt sickly for the rest of the week. I discovered that I was given a combination of drugs, including fentanyl for pain. Although, I requested a propofol combination for the surgery, which I later found out, does not need an opioid for pain, the anesthesiologist said that Dr Chin wanted me more alert than propofol would allow. When I later explained my problems with the anesthesia to Dr. Chin, he said I can speak with the anesthesiologist right before I go into the surgery for my next eye. I did not think this was an appropriate response. I have since found another dr who will give me propofol and a numbing shot around the eye. I will do my 2nd eye surgery with her.

The whole process was efficient. From check-in, to the workup by Karen the ophthalmic tech, to the tests, and then the exam. Everything worked like clockwork and Dr. Chin was thorough and took the time to explain his diagnosis.

Not about Dr. Chin per se’. Mostly, the facts surrounding our never getting to meet him. My wife and I had a 9 am appointment. We had been the only patients in the waiting area upon arrival. Then, from the aggressive desk staff, to the technician’s overall lack of tact and finesse, to the mystery hour wait after he had left, the presentation was amateur at best if not grossly and offensively arrogant. When quietly informing the desk staff of our decision to leave, their prevailing affect was in no way one of concern. No one so much as attempted any sort of explanation. They had actually seemed mildly amused. This is perhaps the third review I had ever written and the only one that did not describe a glowingly positive experience. That morning, however, the three - four people we had interacted with seemed unabashedly determined to present the culture of Westwood Ophthalmology Associates as one of self righteous, vulgar, classless overindulgence.

Made a terrible mistake. Neglected to do an important test. Suggested the wrong procedure. Was rude, also and non-apologetic.

I was referred to Dr. Chin at a time when I was dissatisfied with my previous Ophthalmologist. After my lst visit to Dr. Chin's office (Westwood Ophthalmology), I was struck by how professional, how kind, and how detailed the entire staff was about their work. It was impressive from the first encounter. As it happened, I was diagnosed with cataracts and required surgery. The surgery was satisfactory every step of the way, including details and support help from several professionals there.