About Bay EyeCare Institute
For the last 20 years, Bay EyeCare Institute has been servicing the Bay Area community. At Bay EyeCare Institute, we are committed to providing quality care with patience and compassion. From taking care of your eye health to choosing a new pair of glasses, our staff of highly trained doctors and technicians will diligently work with you to ensure your needs are met.
We understand the importance of clear communication in patient care. Our team can speak Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Cantonese to make your visit more comfortable.
Providing you with the best doctors for the best care
JAMES J. SONG, MD, MS
Ophthalmologist
Dr. James J. Song is the director of the Bay EyeCare Institute, providing quality specialist eye care in the Bay Area. Dr. Song graduated Cum Laude with "Distinction in Research" Honors from the University of Michigan Medical School, then went on to complete his specialty residency training in Ophthalmology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri.
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Dr. Song is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, and a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and California Medical Association. He holds the distinction of being the first resident at Washington University to administer topical anesthesia for cataract surgery. Dr. Song speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.
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In addition to caring for his patients, Dr. Song enjoys swimming, mentoring students, and spending time with his family.
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LAURA CHU, OD, FAAO
Optometrist
Dr. Laura Chu received her Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology from the University of Texas, Austin in 2005. She went on to receive her Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 2009. Dr. Chu also completed post-doctoral residency training at the Veterans Affairs Central Health Care System in Fresno, CA, focusing on primary eye care and ocular diseases.
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Dr. Chu is an active Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO). She speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese, exam Cantonese, and exam Spanish.
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Dr. Chu enjoys hiking, traveling, Ujam fitness classes, and exploring new restaurants.
WINNIE CHAO, OD, FAAO
Optometrist
Dr. Winnie Chao received her Bachelor of Art degrees in Molecular and Cell Biology, and Practice of Art from the University of California, Berkeley in 2008. She continued on to receive her Doctor of Optometry degree from UC Berkeley in 2014. Dr. Chao also completed post-doctoral residency training at the Veterans Affairs Health Care System in Palo Alto, CA, focusing on primary eye care, ocular diseases, and low vision.
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Dr. Chao is an active Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO). She speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese and exam Spanish. She has many years of experience working with low vision patients.
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Dr. Chao enjoys drawing and painting, traveling, bicycling, and trying new cuisine.
SANDRA ESPINOZA
Optician
Our friendly and patient optician Sandra will work with you to help you choose your next favorite pair of glasses or sunglasses. Sandra has been a part of Bay EyeCare Institute since May 2009. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Administration from California State University, East Bay in June 2017.
Sandra is an experienced ophthalmic technician and optical eyewear specialist. She is dedicated to the art and science of frame selection. With her love of fashion, she helps patients choose glasses that not only fit their face, but also complement their features so they can always put their best face forward.
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Sandra is fluent in English and Spanish. In her spare time, she enjoys praise dance and volunteering at the Lupus Foundation of Northern California.