NORWICH – This April marks 20 years since Dr. Glenn Stein began practicing optometry at the Chenango Vision Center in Norwich, NY. Since 1994, Dr. Stein has been helping area families see clearly, and maintain healthy eyes.

“The great thing about practicing for so long in the same location is the relationship you develop with your patients over the years,” said Dr. Stein. “It is very satisfying to watch your younger patients grow up to now start families of their own, and to watch parents turn into grandparents. It's like being part of the family.”

John Birdsall, Optician/Owner of Chenango Vision Center, is extremely happy with their long term association and is excited about the 20 year milestone. “I am thrilled that Dr. Stein chose to settle here in Norwich. We are a perfect match because we share the same business philosophy: Treat patients with the personal attention they deserve, and success will follow,” Birdsall said.

Birdsall founded Chenango Vision Center in 1985, and credits his success to his commitment to providing excellent customer service.

“What makes Dr. Stein stand out is the amount of personal time he spends with each patient.” Birdsall said, “This is something that is often missing in today's fast paced heath care environment. Our patients truly appreciate the face-to-face time with Dr. Stein. They are not just a chart to be shuffled about, but a person.”

The commitment to personal service has certainly paid off, as Dr. Stein's practice has seen tremendous growth over the past 20 years. In addition to prescribing glasses and fitting contact lenses, a large amount of Dr. Stein’s practice is devoted to medical eye care. Managing patients with glaucoma, treating eye infections, and managing the eye care needs of diabetics make up an ever increasing amount of the day to day care.

“There is always something new to learn in this profession, and it takes a lifelong commitment to education to keep up with the latest technology and treatments,” said Dr. Stein. “But that's what makes the profession of optometry so interesting.”

Another 20 years? Dr. Stein currently shows no signs of slowing down and is still accepting new patients. “I still love the profession and enjoy going to work each day,” said Dr. Stein. “20 years seems to fly by in the blink of eye.”

Contact Dr. Glenn Stein at 607-336-2020 or gsteinod@roadrunner.com.