New patients
New Patients Welcome
Here’s what to expect, so your first visit holds no surprises. Caring for Chicagoland eyes since 1996.
Bring these with you
If you’ve been seen elsewhere and want your records transferred, let us know when you book and we’ll help.
Your insurance cards and a photo ID
Both vision and medical, if you have both.
Your current glasses and contacts
Including the boxes if you still have them, plus a copy of your current prescription if you have one.
A list of your medications
Some of them affect your eyes.
Your questions, written down
People forget them in the chair. There’s time to ask here.
Your first visit
You’ll leave knowing what’s going on with your eyes. That’s the whole point.
01
Check in
You’ll fill out a short history form when you arrive.
02
Your exam
At least 30 minutes with Dr. Pelini. She checks how well you see and the health of your eyes, and explains what she finds in plain language.
03
Your eyewear
If you need glasses or contacts, our optical team takes it from there.
Glaucoma screening, no air puff
Dr. Pelini checks your eye pressure with numbing drops and a gentle handheld tonometer. We don’t use the “air puff” machine.
Dilation is part of your exam
We recommend a dilated exam of the back of the eye, but it’s your choice. Dilation makes your eyes sensitive to light, so bring sunglasses. If you forget, we’ll give you a disposable pair.
Finding us
328 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60604
Between Jackson and Van Buren, directly across from Grant Park.
CTA trains and buses stop steps away. The Metra Electric and South Shore Line stop at Van Buren Street, a block south.
Office hours
Monday9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
SaturdayBy appointment only
SundayClosed
Saturday appointments: text or call (312) 427-6720 to schedule.
Before you arrive
Insurance and payment
We accept most vision plans and medical insurance for eye health concerns, along with FSA and HSA dollars. Self-pay patients are always welcome. See our insurance page.
How long to allow
The exam itself runs at least 30 minutes. Allow a little longer for paperwork on a first visit, and more if you plan to choose frames the same day. We’ll give you a timeline when you order.
Common questions from new patients
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, always.
Do I need a referral?
No.
How far ahead should I book?
Wednesday evenings and Saturday appointments fill first, so book early if you need one.
Do you see children?
We see children from around age 5 and up.
Can I have my records transferred?
Yes. Let us know when you book and we’ll help.
We’d like to meet you
Or text or call (312) 427-6720. New patients welcome.
Keep exploring: Comprehensive eye exams · Insurance · Contact & book · All services