I left this appointment extremely disappointed and concerned by the lack of a thorough evaluation and discussion of my options.
I specifically went in because I wanted medical help with weight management and wanted to understand what options might be appropriate for me. Instead of feeling like my individual situation was evaluated, I felt dismissed almost immediately. I was willing to discuss my diet, lifestyle, weight history, insurance coverage, medications, testing, and whatever else was necessary, but I was not asked the questions I expected from a provider evaluating someone for weight management.
When I explained what I had been eating--for example, approximately 2 cups of zucchini in the morning, around 1 1/2 cups of green beans, and more zucchini with dinner--the doctor shook her head and told me it was too much and "too starchy." There was very little effort to actually dig into my overall diet or ask follow-up questions before making that judgment.
What concerned me even more was how unwilling she seemed to go over weight-management options with me. I did not expect a doctor to simply prescribe whatever I asked for. I expected an actual medical discussion: What options exist? What might I qualify for? What are the risks and benefits? What labs or other testing should be done? If one medication isn't appropriate or covered, what are the alternatives? I did not feel I received that kind of evaluation or conversation.
I also asked about a previous medication order from February. While I was being walked out, I heard the doctor asking the office staff what had happened with that order, and nobody seemed to know. I specifically asked what happened so I could prevent the same issue from happening again, but I was told the date was locked in the system or they could not see the reason. Afterward, I contacted/checked with my insurance and confirmed that a prior authorization had never been submitted.
I ended up having to pursue additional information myself, including looking into labs, a sleep study, insurance requirements, and whether another doctor could submit a prior authorization. That is particularly frustrating because those are exactly the kinds of things I was hoping to receive guidance about during the appointment.
I understand that a physician may decide a particular medication or treatment is not appropriate. That is not why I am leaving this review. My concern is that I did not feel properly evaluated, educated about my options, or given the opportunity to have a meaningful conversation about my health before being dismissed.
Patients seeking help with obesity and weight management deserve to have their concerns taken seriously and to understand the medical reasoning behind their treatment options. I left feeling like I had to do much of that work myself.
I would strongly encourage anyone considering this office for weight-management care to advocate for themselves, ask detailed questions, and independently verify with their insurance that any required prior authorizations have actually been submitted. I'm just going to get my lab results and my sleep study results and absolutely take them to a new doctor. Plus Rowena Garcia I already can go to the doctor that's helping my mom since she said she flat out can't help me with any options anyways. My husband will be coming with me as well. No more of this. Our health is more important to us. read more
