MARNIE O’BRIEN, D.O.
,
Bethlehem, PA

I’m a surgeon and my left eye vision started to deteriorate by the DAY two months ago now likely from a cataract (been through this before with my right eye).. Was lucky I thought to get an appointment with OCLI but as it turns out, this was a mistake. First I waited an hour and a half while dilated to be seen. Then Dr. O’Brien told me I have 20/20 vision (which I don’t) and that my left eye was fine (which it wasn’t). Then she refers me to her colleagues in Philly. Not very reassuring. Needless to say, as my vision continued to get worse I sought counsel elsewhere. Yes I have a cataract, yes I need surgery, and yes my vision on the left is only 20/50. Thanks for nothing OCLI. P.S. Dr. O’Brien, as one physician to another, maybe grow a personality, no matter how busy you are.

Very disappointing experience to say the least! I scheduled a appointment to see Dr. O'Brien and waited weeks to get in, took time off of work to make it to the appointment on time and when I arrive I am told that they want me to pay upfront because they were worried my insurance company would not pay for the visit. If your primary concern is getting paid why wouldn't the office call my insurance provider ahead of time to verify coverage... I don't know? So, I called my insurance company while waiting in the office and was advised that they would cover the visit, all the Drs. office needed to do was call in for confirmation and they wouldn't do it. I looked forward to meeting Dr. O'Brian, hoping she could join my team of Drs. who continuously work hard to monitor my health issue. So sad to put money 1st.

She is the most companish Doctor I ever met she is amazing

My experience was very similar to Jessica Schmidt's. Within days of surgery it was clear that I did not have "good" vision despite paying for the premium lens. Action taken by Dr. O'Brien: (1) Offered to remove the lens and implant a new one at no cost. Couldn't provide an explanation as to why this happened. (2) Referred me to a doc in Philly for a second opinion (another $400 out-of-pocket) who agreed with her. However, I did NOT want further surgery on the eye and declined. After insisting that I was due a refund for the expensive lens that did not provide expected results, Dr. O'Brien said she would "fight for me" with the manufacturer but later said they would not offer anything other than giving me a new lens. Very disappointed that I paid (a few thousand dollars) for something that did not work and was not refunded. Still wonder if the vision test used to determine the implant lens prescription was done in error. In fairness, Dr. O'Brien did another cataract surgery for me ten years ago and results were fine. Bedside manner: presents as very competent with very little affect.

In September 2025, Dr. O’Brien performed cataract surgery on my left eye. The result was a significant refractive miss, leaving me without usable mid-range or near vision despite paying for a premium lens. Only after consulting another surgeon did I fully understand that my eye was complex and outcomes could vary. What I cannot accept was the response afterward. When I returned distressed — unable to read my phone, struggling with depth perception, even falling — I was given shifting explanations and conflicting narratives and was ultimately made to feel the outcome was my fault. Dr. O’Brien’s communication style came across as rushed and dismissive. When I raised concerns, the response felt combative rather than collaborative, leaving little room for genuine dialogue about my care. The payment was complete; the accountability was not. I am now under the care of another surgeon while I explore options to correct what was done.

Very disappointing experience to say the least! I scheduled a appointment to see Dr. O'Brien and waited weeks to get in, took time off of work to make it to the appointment on time and when I arrive I am told that they want me to pay upfront because they were worried my insurance company would not pay for the visit. If your primary concern is getting paid why wouldn't the office call my insurance provider ahead of time to verify coverage... I don't know? So, I called my insurance company while waiting in the office and was advised that they would cover the visit, all the Drs. office needed to do was call in for confirmation and they wouldn't do it. I looked forward to meeting Dr. O'Brian, hoping she could join my team of Drs. who continuously work hard to monitor my health issue. So sad to put money 1st.

Very confusing office experience. Not good with communicating to patient. Don’t know if she is overwhelmed or confused

good experience!

Dr O'BRIEN is a wonderful surgeon. My eyesight is so clear and haven't had vision like this since in my 40's. She is compassionate funny and down to earth. I recommend her for anyone who needs cateract surgery

My father had Age Related Macula Degeneration and probably would have lost his driver's license had he not had Marnie do the eye exam requested by PA DMV.