I have been a patient at Balfour Dermatology for approximately a year, and my overall experience…read morehas been extremely disappointing.
I initially came in for a growing mole on my lower lip that was recommended for removal and biopsy. While I was warned about possible scarring, I was never made aware that I could be left with a raised, white, discolored scar that is extremely noticeable on my lip.
For nearly a year, I have returned approximately every four weeks for treatments to shrink what they referred to as a keloid scar, with little to no improvement. Throughout this process, to my knowledge, no photographs or measurements were taken to track whether the treatments were even working. I continued going, trusting the providers and hoping it would eventually improve.
Last Friday, I saw a different provider who, after reviewing my records, declined to continue treatment because she felt it wasn't helping and could actually be making the discoloration worse. This was incredibly frustrating to hear after nearly a YEAR of appointments. It left me questioning why these treatments continued for so long, with insurance being billed, if there was no noticeable progress.
We agreed that I should meet with Dr. Beer, whom I had never seen before, to discuss other options. I was scheduled for Monday morning at 9:30 AM.
This morning, I arrived for my appointment with my two-year-old, was placed in an exam room, and sat there for 30 minutes without ever seeing the doctor or receiving an update. I ultimately got up and left.
I have two young children and very limited childcare assistance. I rearranged my schedule twice in four days to accommodate these appointments, only to accomplish absolutely nothing.
Having previously worked in medical offices myself, I completely understand that doctors can run behind schedule. However, patients' time matters too. Given the circumstances and the fact that I had JUST been there Friday and was specifically asked to return to see the doctor, I find this incredibly inconsiderate.
To make matters worse, I stopped at the front desk on my way out to express my frustration and was met with a blank stare. No acknowledgment, no apology, absolutely nothing. I even called about 20 minutes after leaving to ask to refund my co-pay since I did not see a provider and I explained the situation to the receptionist on the other end and clearly I was frustrated and there was again, no apology matter fact, just making excuses that the doctor was running behind!!
At this point, I am beyond frustrated with this entire practice. Nearly a year of treatments, no meaningful improvement, questionable continuity of care, and now a complete disregard for my time.
I came in with one problem and am now left with another, with no resolution in sight. I genuinely don't understand the hype surrounding Balfour Dermatology. My experience has been nothing short of disappointing.