Rachel K. Sobel MD

Even though she was running behind, she listened intently and engaged with me. I felt seen and heard and cared for.

Dr. Sobel was kind, listened to my concerns, and reviewed my medical history with me. She examined my eyes/eyelids, performed a tear film test, and provided me with much-needed information. She took the time to explain her analysis and made recommendations. She demonstrated respect, care, and professionalism. I did not feel rushed during my appointment. I am grateful for her help.

Dr Sobel and staff was great. Dr Sobel was so nice and friendly

Did not meet one person that works for Vanderbilt Eye Clinic that was rude or not caring. Few doctors actually explain procedures or take time to show you where your actual problem is located. These doctors and techs were just superb.

I recently got diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on my face, very close to my left eye. When meeting with my dermatologist to discuss surgical removal of this spot, he informed me that given the location, I would need to be sent to an Oculoplastic Surgeon for the closure of the wound after he removed the cancerous lesion. He referred me to Dr. Sobel and reassured me that she is the best-of-the-best for this type of surgery.From the beginning at my pre-op consultation, Dr. Sobel went above and beyond to make an incredibly frightening experience feel less overwhelming. In the weeks leading up to my surgery, I was extremely nervous. At my pre-op appointment, she took the time to talk with me, answer my questions, and reassure me in a way that made me feel calmer and more prepared. She reassured me that in 6-9 months' time after the operation, the incision and scar near my eye would be near unnoticeable. On the day of my procedure, my dermatologist completed the Mohs surgery and, knowing how delicate the location was, sent me to Dr. Sobel with the words: you are now in the hands of the monarch of the medial canthus. I didn't fully appreciate what that meant until I experienced Dr. Sobel's care firsthand.After she came to see me in the pre-op area and I got wheeled back into the operating room, my anesthesiologist was about to sedate me when Dr. Sobel said to her, hang on, don't give her any medications yet. I would like to talk to her more first. She sat next to me on the operating table and asked what music I would like to listen to in the operating room. I mentioned that I loved the Hamilton soundtrack. Shortly after this discussion, I was given conscious sedation and fell asleep. I awoke midway through the procedure to find the Hamilton soundtrack playing in the OR. I started to hum along to the music, and Dr. Sobel and her OR nurses began humming along with me. They also began asking me if I knew which song came next on the soundtrack, which helped distract me from my fear of what was happening. That small but meaningful act turned what could have been a terrifying moment into one filled with comfort, connection, and even joy.What also struck me was Dr. Sobel's meticulousness. At one point, I overheard her telling the nurses that she wasn't completely satisfied with the way a suture was laying and that she wanted to redo it. Her attention to detail and determination to give me the best possible outcome gave me an immense amount of trust and reassurance while I was on her operating table.Now, as I continue to heal, I can say that the results have exceeded my expectations. It is clear that her skill and precision made all the difference. She truly lives up to the title of monarch of the medial canthus.Dr. Sobel combines medical skill with genuine humanity in a way that I will never forget. She not only cared for me as a patient, but also saw me as a person and made sure I felt safe, valued, and cared for during a scary experience. I, myself, have learned lessons from her that I will use in my own career as a medical provider. For all these reasons, I believe she is deeply deserving of recognition through a Patient Excellence Award.

Excellent

I was impressed with the providers attention to detail in my situation as it is a bit lengthy - much appreciated their patience In allowing me to explain the contributing factors!

The doctor explained what was happening with the stye and alternative ways to treat it. She helped us decide what course of treatment to select and educated my daughter of how to do preventative care. Very impressive! Professional, caring, and appreciate the simple but scientific explanations.

Definitely will highly recommend Dr Sobel!!!