Dr. Shlomit Schaal, MD

Dr. Schaal's office was 5-star from the moment I walked in. My wait was minimal. Her technician was professional and clear with her questions & instructions. Dr. Schaal reviewed the notes from my prior visit, inquired about any issues, examined my eyes, reviewed the images, and dictated notes of the visit as I listened to be sure all aspects were covered. I highly recommend Dr. Schaal.

I thought the doctor should always the best ophthalmologist I had ever had in 40 years of being a diabetic she was thorough her information technology was the best I've ever seen and she was friendly and had great empathy towards her clientele and she was as professional and thorough as I can ever imagine I am continually recommending her to every case healthcare professional I know

I could not be more bountiful in my praise for Dr. Schaal. It was beyond thorough, the technology that she brought was beyond anything I had ever seen before the technology that she brings to her practice is stunning Her use of dragon software to dictate her notes was equally impressive. (I am a lawyer uses Dragon including preparing this comment. I am recommending her to every person I can and especially diabetics such as myself.

I had my photocoagulation laser procedure done by Dr. S. Schaal, MD, PhD, in UMMC Hahnemann Campus. As I had 3 retina tears in one eye (rarely the case), Dr. Schaal had to spend more time to repair them. Her professionalism in the field, attentiveness, conscientious and profound technical skills have earned her some Appreciation Awards. In addition, Jason is a kind, professional & efficient Ophthalmic Assistant who is familiar with some Chinese language that definitely helps in eye exams of the non-English speaking Chinese elders while Katlyn is the imaging expert in the eye center. Bravo!

After searching high and low for a retina specialist....We found the perfect place and doc in Worcester! The office had state of the art equipment, the office staff were professional and friendly and Dr. Schaal was excellent! Explained everything in easy to understand terms and gave us time to ask questions. I would highly recommend this office and Dr. Schaal.

An annual eye exam is commonly routine and, consequently, not much beyond getting your annual contact lens prescription and making an appointment for next year. Unfortunately, at times, this visit can identify issues that require surgery. This occurred with me and during my eye exam at a local “Eye and Lasik Center” in my hometown, it was identified that I had a detached retina. The facility, seemingly sufficient in routine care, appeared to be much less prepared and staffed for more serious conditions. Extremely healthy and not often experiencing surgery ‘decisions’ in my life, I accepted the ‘branch’ surgeon’s recommendation of quickly (within 24 hours) getting into surgery. Options were quickly discussed and rushed and risks were poorly communicated. In fact, it appeared ‘routine’. We decided on Scleral Buckle surgery. Simply concluding, the surgery failed and I was left with a detached retina, a scleral buckle and furthermore, scarring of the retina from the ‘cryo’ that was… used. Uncertain of my next steps and with a renewed sense of urgency, I began to research Umass eye care facilities. After a brief search I discovered the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences. I recall thinking at the time that I’ll call them, but imagine they wouldn’t be able to schedule an appointment and/or not be able to see me so quickly. My failed surgery was just days before and I thought no one would be able to see me. I called the office of Dr. Shlomit Schaal, M.D., Ph.D. the Professor and Department Chair for the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences. My concerns were immediately alliviated as Dr. Schaal’s Executive Secretary (Jackie Volke) who took the time and listened to my issue with genuine concern. She contacted Dr. Schaal directly and I was scheduled within hours to see her. Upon arriving at the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences in Worcester, I was amazed at the level of immediate and professional service at check-in. The front desk was quick, informative and very accommodating. Once checked in, the technicians (Alexis, Sherri, Jason, David and the others) were extremely polite, engaging, friendly and sincere. They were extraordinarily qualified and kindly answered all my questions. The equipment was state of the art. Dr. Schaal and Dr. Luna are amazing. When I met Dr. Schaal I was/am first amazed at her extraordinary enthusiasm and optimism. Her energy and positive outlook towards my condition was palpable, immediately putting me at ease. She was exceptionally transparent and knowledgeable when answering my (many) questions and communicated an extremely complex issue in laymen terms so that I could best understand her proposed surgical approach. Her energy, expertise and passion was immediately mirrored when I had the opportunity to be introduced to Dr. Gabriel Luna, M.D. While Dr. Schaal was proposing a “two-surgery” approach, she stepped into the hall and asked him to join us. Demonstrating their collaborative efforts, he unselfishly and immediately joined us and took the time to look at my eye. Both of them then took the time to explain. They decided he would perform the first (cataract) surgery, allowing Dr. Schaal to perform the second (vitrectomy) surgery with more flexibility. The surgeries were a success. I want to thank Dr. Schaal, Dr. Luna, their immediate staff and all at the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences. Truly ‘patient driven’, I can’t thank them enough for simply taking the time to pick up the phone and listen which ultimately led to saving my vision. I strongly invite everyone, who discovers they have an eye issue, to make the best choice and pick up the phone and call. They are dedicated and committed to providing the best eye care experience and support. Don’t be rushed into making a surgical decision. Make the right choice the first time. The Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Worcester Ma.

Dr. Schaal was terrific. Her staff-Jason all top notch. Torn retina and she fixed this right away.

Dr. Schaal is a top-notch ophthalmologist....very aware of the latest developments in her field and very kind. She uses cutting edge technology/equipment for diagnosis and treatment. Techs Jason and Katlyn are knowledgeable and friendly.

Dr. Schaal and the Optic Center at UMass Hahnemann is wonderful. I could not believe an advanced eye care center was in Worcester. Don't go anywhere else, go the Optic Center at Hahnemann.

Dr. Schaal is excellent! She is responsive, knowledgeable and courteous. She is thorough with her diagnosis and explanation. She makes it easy to understand what is happening with you. She is really friendly and makes you feel comfortable. Her staff and secretary follow up with you if you have problem with appointment or medication.