Information last verified:
632 East Maitland Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
This community is best suited for seniors and their families who want a physician-led experience in which clinicians take time to listen, educate, and tailor advice. The strongest value emerges from doctors who genuinely engage with patients, such as Dr. Romero and Dr. Rafael, and from a staff environment that feels personable and attentive. When visits are straightforward, patients report being “in and out” efficiently and leaving with clear explanations and actionable guidance. The remodeled facility environment and the overall calm, friendly atmosphere reinforce the sense that medical care here centers on relationship as much as touchpoints, making it a solid choice for those who want a personal, clinically focused primary-care experience.
Those who should consider alternatives are families that require a consistently friction-free administrative operation. If scheduling flexibility is non-negotiable, if timely RX fulfillment and lab-result communication are critical, or if front-desk responsiveness is a deal-breaker, this community may not meet those nonclinical expectations. A recurring theme in reviews is the difficulty of obtaining same-day or timely appointments, long holds with the front desk, and delays in prescriptions or lab results. For households that prize seamless operations and predictable administrative performance, exploring other clinics with stronger back-office reliability is prudent.
The key positives, strong physician engagement, education, and patient-centered care, often offset the main drawbacks. When seen at their best, Dr. Romero earns high praise for listening without rushing, offering clear explanations, and delivering careful, thoughtful guidance. Dr. Rafael also earns praise for bedside manner and personal attention. The staff is frequently described as friendly and courteous, and some reviewers note quick, routine visits that feel efficiently managed. In those moments, the clinical care parties matter most: competent, compassionate physicians who treat patients as individuals, not transactions, can make the difference between good care and great care.
Yet, the negatives cannot be ignored. Multiple reviews recount significant administrative friction: difficulty scheduling, delays in returning calls, and frustration with how policies translate into practice. Noteworthy is the reported lag between lab work orders, results, and prescription fulfillment, with some patients awaiting months for necessary medications. Several accounts describe inconsistent communication about policies, or behavior by front-desk staff that feels unhelpful or disorganized. A few reviewers even label the overall experience as unprofessional, underscoring a pattern where the medical talent is clear, but the back end disappoints.
To navigate this landscape effectively, seek clarity upfront. Prioritize seeing one of the highly-rated physicians (Dr. Romero or Dr. Rafael) and request direct lines of communication for test results and prescription questions. Confirm appointment windows and understand the policy on routine blood work and medication refills before committing. Consider pairing this care with a dependable pharmacy workflow or a backup plan for urgent prescriptions, and designate a caregiver to monitor communications with the office so expectations stay aligned. If the front-office experience remains a sticking point, it is reasonable to compare with other primary-care options that offer similarly strong clinical care but deliver more consistent administrative performance.
In the end, the decision hinges on values and tolerances. For families who prize a warm, patient-centered clinical relationship and can tolerate occasional administrative hiccups, this community offers a credible, even compelling, core of care. The physicians’ dedication, coupled with a welcoming staff and a refreshed facility, creates a genuine sense of reliable medical leadership when encounters unfold smoothly. For those who cannot accept irregular scheduling, slow access to medications, or uncertain back-office communication, it is wise to explore alternatives that deliver tighter operational consistency without sacrificing the physician-level attention that this practice can provide.
Thelma G. Smith Family Care is a board and care home located in Ontario, CA. Our community offers a comfortable and homely environment for seniors who require assistance with daily activities.
Our fully furnished facility features a dining room where residents can enjoy nutritious meals prepared by our skilled staff. We also offer housekeeping services to ensure that the living spaces are always clean and tidy.
For those who appreciate the outdoors, we have a beautiful garden where residents can relax and soak up the sunshine. In addition, our outdoor space provides opportunities for socializing and engaging in recreational activities.
We understand that staying connected is important, which is why we provide telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access throughout our community. This allows residents to stay in touch with their loved ones and keep up with the latest news and entertainment.
At Thelma G. Smith Family Care, our dedicated staff is committed to providing personalized care for each resident. We offer assistance with bathing, dressing, transfers, and other activities of daily living to ensure that our residents feel comfortable and supported.
We work closely with health care providers to coordinate medical appointments and manage medication for our residents. Special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets are also catered for during meal preparation and service.
In terms of nearby amenities, there are 2 cafes, 2 parks, 15 pharmacies, 14 physicians' offices, 10 restaurants, 7 transportation options, 2 places of worship, 1 theater within close proximity of our community. This ensures that residents have convenient access to various services and attractions.
Residents also have the opportunity to participate in scheduled daily activities designed to promote socialization and engagement within the community.
Overall, Thelma G. Smith Family Care offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a range of amenities and care services to support the needs of our senior residents in Ontario, CA.
Thelma G. Smith Family Care is located at 632 East Maitland Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761 in San Bernardino County, California
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