RUDE office staff

Thought I'd share- went to seminar at Albany Med to get 'Dr. S's "packet" (all tests be done first before you even meet him). I Began- had ulcer. Began again 6 mo later- discoverd Packet had changed but the RUDE nurses/ofc. workers refused to tell me what changed/ or send me new packet. Refused to tell me what other nutritionist I could see closer to home and his prefered one had a 5 mo wait! Threatened to turn me away if the the Dr. did not approve my choice of nutritionists. Later found out he accepts some in my area! THEY REFUSED TO CONFIRM THIS! Refused any accomodation (I was already approved out of area but needed to switch to hospital where my MD's for Lupus were- I am also a bleeder). I am a Dr. of Psychology and had 'Dr. Friend' contact staff to get some info. They were told that he deals with "noncomplaint welfare cases" and disparaging remarks were made about the obese! The hoops are there to discourage or weed out many potential problems. They refused to answer my questions or were vague. Just wanted to share this experience.

Good Morning Dawna I am sorry you had a bad experience so far, I hope the rest of your WLS journey is easier and filled with compassionate people. ((((((((HUGS))))))) Happy Easter Tammy

I saw a private nutritionist until I could get in to see one of Dr. O'Malley's team nutritionists. (for documentation as well as getting my head ready for the change) I don't know where you live, but consider a drive to Rochester,NY, Highland Hospital. Dr O'Malley and Dr. Boss are both outstanding surgeons with a compassionate, organized staff. If the office you were associating with is run that badly, it makes me wonder how good the surgeon is. Think about it. If he tolerates that kind of crap, how good is he? Having things go smoothly and safely even if it means waiting a bit,seems worth it to me imho.

Dawna, Fist off let me say that I am sorry that you had such a bad time with the office. I would NOT go back to that office and search for another Dr, even if you have to travel some, it might be worth it! I can not imagine dealing with that office when you are stressed about the surgery or if there are any problems and you need their help with. Good luck hun and I hope this will turn around for you...~hug~ Take care Debra

Boy is this making me think. I have read a few complaints about Dr. S's receptionist, Debbie. My daughter just sent her packet back yesterday and I am waiting for an appt with my PCP on April 22, for a referral to see Dr. S. Im so sorry that you were treated so rudely. No one deserves that. Sending positive energy and warm hugs. *~*Laurie*~*

Since you live in Preston Hollow have you thought about Dr.Pearlstein in Catskill? I can't say enough nice things about him and everyone in his office. He did my surgery on 3/21 and each step has been nothing but easy with his staff and himself! Good Luck, but i'll tell you you need not only the surgeon for this journey but also the office staff. The whole team is vital! And Dr.P's team is above all others! Kerry