New patients
In Baldwin Park and the San Gabriel Valley
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What to expect at your first visit, what to bring and how we verify your insurance before you arrive.
Your first visit, made simple
Thank you for choosing San Gabriel Valley Eye Institute. Our ophthalmologists and optometrists take the time to listen, explain every step and plan your care around you.
Do you need a referral? Usually not. Medicare and most PPO plans let you schedule directly. HMO, IPA and some military plans may need a referral or authorization from your primary care doctor, so tell us your plan when you call and we will check. Some visits with our specialists are scheduled after a first visit with one of our doctors.
How your first visit works
Before your visit
Complete our New Patient Intake Form at least 72 business hours before your visit and send us your insurance information. Our insurance team checks your coverage and tells you your expected cost before you arrive.
Your visit
Plan for about 90 minutes to 2 hours. A complete medical eye exam often includes imaging or other testing and dilating drops, which take time to work.
After your visit
Your doctor reviews your results with you and explains your plan. Follow up visits are usually shorter.
Good to know before you come
What to bring
A photo ID, your medical and vision insurance cards, a list of your medications and eye drops, your current glasses and contact lenses (or the lens boxes) and the name of your primary care doctor.
Dilation and driving
Most new patient exams include dilation. Your vision may be blurry and sensitive to light for about 4 to 6 hours, so bring sunglasses, and bring a driver if you are not comfortable driving.
Paying for your visit
We collect your copay and the patient cost your insurance company estimates at check in. We accept cash, checks, credit and debit cards, Zelle and Venmo.
Office hours
Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm, and some Saturdays, all by appointment. Call (626) 960-3741 to check availability.
Take the next step. It’s easy.
Related care to consider
New patient FAQs
What insurance do you accept?
We accept Medicare and most PPO plans, and VSP for routine vision exams. Plans change often, so call (626) 960-3741 to confirm your specific plan before your visit. See our Insurance page.
Do you have a patient portal?
We do not use an online patient portal at this time. Call, text or email us and a real person on our team will help.
Can I text the office?
Yes. Text (626) 960-3741 with a quick question or to ask for an appointment.
Let’s take care of your eyes
Call, text or request an appointment online. We verify your insurance before your visit.
3000 Big Dalton Ave, Baldwin Park, CA 91706 ยท Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, and some Saturdays