I was referred to MN Eye Consultants, by my (then)...

I was referred to MN Eye Consultants, by my (then) regular optometrist, for a persistent infection in my right eye. I was seen at MEC the same day. They diagnosed me with an infection severe enough to require (an average of) 4-6 visits a month for almost a year. And one of the first things they did, was ensure I had a direct contact to the doctors working on my case, so that I could get in touch with them at any time.

I have the patient experience from every time of day and day of the week. After checking in so many times, the front desk staff got to know me and if I was waiting in line they would take a quick moment to let me know I could take a seat and that they had me checked in. Or they would tell me to hang on for a second so we could take care of business. Always friendly, even when there were patients lined up to the elevator!

I have experienced wait times of 2 minutes and even 2 hours! And while in the waiting room for Dr. Hardten, another couple was there and had been for almost an hour. I smiled and said hello, and the woman said, "you'll be here a while! But for Dr. Hardten, it's worth the wait!" And don't I know it! I really learned how to be a patient patient because, with my eye condition, the pain and activity of my infection sometimes demanded emergency attention and that would bump me to the head of the line (affecting other patient's appointment times) and the doctors at MEC, ALL of them, would give me the care and time that I needed to be comfortable again. So, when Dr. Hardten's waiting room was full of patients (with varying patience), I was appreciative because I knew he was giving other patients the time and care that they needed that day. Sometimes that requires emergency surgery which can really affect the rest of his schedule. But the assistants and admins would always check on us and take care of us!

Through my ordeal, Dr. Hauswirth was who I saw most frequently and he advised me from day one that it was going to be a tough climb to get through this infection (20 months later, still dealing with it -- but doing so well!) - Dr. Hauswirth would check on me regularily through the worst of it and would always make sure every need was considered for me in a delicate way and because of his concern, it reduced the stress for me and my family IMMENSELY! I trust him and I trust Dr. Hardten, very much!

These professionals are about the patient, first and foremost. They were open for me to look into second opinions (which I did! But returned to MEC) and treatments, and referred me to, and worked with, other cornea specialists to achieve the best outcome for my health and the future of my vision!

From the cordial, timely team members who answer the phones, the compassionate business staff, the front desk staff, to the techs, research team and doctors - I have always felt welcome, comfortable, and very well taken care of with each visit and interaction!

THIS is how all medical care experiences should be!

THANK YOU!