Dr. Samantha Rao, OD, FAAO
Optometrist
616.4 mi · 210 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024
At a glance
4.92 stars (13 reviews)
98% are satisfied with this provider ·
Accepts 10 insurances
Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, EyeMed, VSP, more+ ·
Works at Dr. Gary Tracy - Optometry & Eyewear
Speaks English and Spanish
4.92
13 reviews
Bedside manner
4.9
Wait time
4.9
Recent reviews
Dr Rao is kind, knowledgeable and took the time to explain my eye condition and my treatment options. I feel like I finally understand an eye problem that I've had for years. Highly recommend.
More than 1 year agoBM
Awesome experience the doctor was very professional answered all my questions and doubts about my prescriptions. Doctor shows that she really cares about her patients and the staff is super helpful & friendly
More than 1 year agoCB
Samantha Rao does not participate in Zocdoc to offer online booking at this time
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
EyeMed
VSP
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
EyeMed
Popular visit reasons
Contact Lenses
Eye Inflammation
Eyeglasses
General Eye Consultation
Glaucoma Consultation
Orthokeratology / Corneal Refractive Therapy
Retina Consultation
Routine Eye Exam
Contact Lenses
Eye Inflammation
Eyeglasses
General Eye Consultation
More about Dr. Samantha Rao, OD, FAAO
Dr. Samantha Rao is a licensed optometrist who provides full scope eye health and vision care in New York City. She is a graduate of the State University of New York College of Optometry where she graduated with honors as a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa and Gold Key International optometric honor societies. She has completed internships focusing on ocular disease, specialty contact lenses and pediatrics at Woodhull Medical Center, the VA Medical Center of Connecticut, and Fromer Eye Centers. Following her clinical internships, Dr. Rao completed a residency with advanced training in Cornea and Contact Lenses at Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Dr. Rao specializes in fitting contact lenses of all kinds, including custom corneal gas permeable and scleral lenses for patients with astigmatism, corneal scars, keratoconus, dry eye, and patients who have undergone corneal transplants, LASIK and other ocular surgeries. Dr. Rao helps many of her patients who have struggled with contacts in the past to find the perfect fit to keep them comfortable and seeing optimally in their contact lenses. Dr. Rao’s other clinical interests include ocular disease, dry eye and glaucoma, and she provides pre- and post-operative care for ocular surgeries including cataract surgery. Dr. Rao is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and a member of the Scleral Lens Education Society.
Dr. Rao is also passionate about expanding access to eye care in underserved communities. She has traveled to Nicaragua and Mexico on three medical mission trips to provide free exams and glasses to patients in rural areas with little access to medical care.
In her spare time Dr. Rao enjoys traveling, seeing Broadway shows, and exploring New York City.
Education & experience
Education
State University of New York, Doctor of Optometry
Nova Southeastern University, Residency in Cornea and Contact Lenses
Practice
Dr. Gary Tracy - Optometry & Eyewear
Certifications
National Board of Examiners in Optometry
Professional memberships
American Academy of Optometry
Scleral Lens Education Society
Background
Languages spoken
English
Spanish
Gender
Female
NPI number
#1346690526
Samantha Rao does not participate in Zocdoc to offer online booking at this time
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Next available: Apr 13
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Next available: Apr 13
Dr. Erica Meltzer, OD
Optometrist
4.339 reviews
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Dr. Cledis Ramirez-Reyes, OD
Optometrist
4.8628 reviews
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4.8628 reviews
2.5 mi215 W 125th St, New York, NY, 10027
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.92
Wait time
4.92
Bedside manner
4.92
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
13 reviews
Most relevant
Dr. Rao was very thorough during my visit. She took care of all my needs during my visit. Highly recommend!
More than 1 year agoRZ
I saw Dr. Rao for my annual eye examination. She was great and the office team was lovely.
January 30, 2019Jacqueline C.Verified patient
Dr Rao is kind, knowledgeable and took the time to explain my eye condition and my treatment options. I feel like I finally understand an eye problem that I've had for years. Highly recommend.
More than 1 year agoBM
Awesome experience the doctor was very professional answered all my questions and doubts about my prescriptions. Doctor shows that she really cares about her patients and the staff is super helpful & friendly
More than 1 year agoCB
Dr. Rao is the best! I have a very complicated prescription and dry eyes so my contact lenses are often uncomfortable. Dr. Rao fit me with the most comfortable contacts I have ever used and I am seeing better than I have in years!
More than 1 year agoRT
Very nice, calming environment. Dr. Rao was amazing when checking my daughter whose 9 years old. She's very thorough and very kind to her patients. Highly reccomend!
More than 1 year agoMO
Great experience - The doctor was friendly and took her time perfecting my prescription and checking my eyes for signs of diabetes. The office staff is also great and I never felt pressured or rushed
More than 1 year agoJL
I've had contact lens issues for many many years and after seeing Dr. Rao, my prescription has finally made sense. Not only could I see clearer but she recommended the best comfort for my eyes. She's great!
More than 1 year agoJA
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What practice does Dr. Samantha Rao work with?
Dr. Samantha Rao works with Dr. Gary Tracy - Optometry & Eyewear.
Where is Dr. Samantha Rao's office located?
Dr. Samantha Rao's office is located at 210 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024.
Which board certifications does Dr. Samantha Rao have?
Dr. Samantha Rao is certified by National Board of Examiners in Optometry.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Samantha Rao?
Dr. Samantha Rao frequently sees patients for Contact Lenses, Eyeglasses, General Eye Consultation, Retina Consultation, and Routine Eye Exam. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Samantha Rao on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Samantha Rao speak?
Dr. Samantha Rao speaks English and Spanish.
How do patients rate Dr. Samantha Rao in reviews?
13 patients have reviewed Dr. Samantha Rao. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.92/5. They have a 4.92/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.92/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.