AA
Administrative Assistant
Mar 30, 2026
I am sure that this is an excellent eye care center, and I have NO qualms with the quality of care I have received at their Hilo office, when I've been able to be seen. I am also grateful that they are trying to meet the needs of neighbor island patients.
Like almost every other specialist here on the Big Island, they are constantly over-booked and understaffed. I have arrived one time at my appointment time, and because of flight delays, had to wait over an hour for the doctor to arrive (or anyone - there weren't even staff since this was right after they set up shop in Hilo).
Another time, I waited over 1.5 hours and they still had not been able to see the person 3-4 people ahead of me - I had to leave because of other commitments.
They lost the records of me coming in the last time (but so did HMSA - so maybe I'm hallucinating that I went to see them last year - or maybe I just avoided going because of scheduling issues and thought I went - lol!)
And now the doctor is only coming to Hilo on Thursdays - not a day I can come in because of my work schedule.
So, like my dermatologist, last colonoscopy appointment, and many other of my specialist appointments; I'm now having to fly to Oahu (on my own dime) to get care on my days off.
Not Eye Center's problem - just another symptom of an extremely broken medical system that is starting to be pretty much unusable (for people who work at least) in rural areas.
Sorry - like I said, I'm sure that this company is an excellent company, doing the best it can to keep the doors open in an impossible situation that pretty much has been broken by an insurance system that places profit over patient care.
I do appreciate them trying to meet the needs on our neighbor islands, and once I'm retired, I'm sure that this will work fine for me, but for now - I'm going to Oahu for my care.
Thanks for listening,
Stephanie
On my last visit to the Eye Centre of Hawaii, Dr. Miller was not satisfied with the results I was getting from the drug for my eye injection. Dr. Miller then consulted Joelie to see if another new drug was available which there was , he and Joelie explained that option any went forward with treatment ,this would be my last visit for the season here . When I returned to my doctor he was amazed with results The best improvement he has seen so far. Being On this new drug has increased to longer period between injections . unfortunately, when I returned this season, Dr. Miller had retired as he mentioned on my last visit, he may do that. He and Joelie said there would be a new doctor and they would give me same great care . Mahalo for his and Joelie’s insight to change my medication. This is the kind of great care you get here.
When I returned this season, Joelie had made an appointment for me with Dr. Safi . Once again I was given thorough tests On both eyes as I have macular generation in both eyes, only one is dry and one is wet,by the very professional staff . I then saw Dr. Safi and Joelie , Dr Safi is very good to make me aware of my condition and explained options for new technology for dry macular degeneration he is very easy to talk to and takes time to explain things . He is very professional and has Extensive experience with eye care.
All the staff here treat you very well They are legitimately concerned That your visit here goes well. Mahalo to Dr. Safi and Joelie and all the staff here . I apologize for not knowing all their names I look forward to returning here later this season .
David .
NZ
Nyaarii W Zawati
Dec 16, 2025
Several weeks ago, I reported an unpleasant experience with poor customer service. At least 100 people read my one-star review, which I have deleted. Now, I am thrilled to report that the problem has been satisfactorily resolved personally by the Executive Officer of the Eye Center of Hawaii. Her outstanding leadership assures that I will continue to receive the BEST vision care and customer service available on the Island of Hawaii. I wish I could give more than five stars!
5 stars for Dr. Safi who corrected my eyes after another ophthalmologist did my cataract surgery. The staff is also very nice. I took a star off because I had to wait over 90 minutes during my last follow up exam.
MG
Michael Gyori
Oct 24, 2019
My wife Laura and I are delighted with all facets of your institute (reception, clinical assistants, and doctors). We especially wish to express our delight at Dr. Danforth having become our ophthalmologist. His level of expertise and manner of communicating have contributed much not only to our visual, but also cognitive clarity! We are both grateful for your presence on Maui and look forward to being your clients for years to come!