The first time I met him I started to tell him something about my past.He quickly said: "I don't care about your past" and told me to get some lab tests. When the lab tests came back he had highlighted some of the items. I asked what they meant and he gave me a cursory answer,. I (I called and got an appointment to talk to him in person about the tests (since the receptionist said I can't talk to him without scheduling an appoinment.) Some of the issues were about my kidneys and I became alarmed. He said "people your age often have this". I asked what I could do about it and he answered "nothing". Then I was denied insurance. The reason they gave said: Chronic Kidney Disease". I was shocked as the Doctor had never mentioned this or the seriousness of my condition. He is the worst, uncaring physician I have ever known and a danger to me. I am looking for another doctor for the rest of this year. read more

Dr. Gendelman is one of a kind, and I'm particularly grateful to him because he saved my life. I had a really bad strep infection, and when I finally got to his office for my appointment, he saw that my face had swollen up like a basketball. He loaded me up into his own personal car and drove me to the hospital, and made sure I was seen right away. I was immediately hospitalized and in the ICU for a week on IV antibiotics. They were worried the swelling was going to close my throat, but I finally made it. This was in 2008, and I've been a patient ever since. read more

The best doctor you can find! First of all he is a HUMAN! He will never send you to do anything you do not need. He doesn't want just to take your money and scam you. He is honest and he is the one who works to actually help people! I have nothing but the best words for him. He is efficient and helpful. And he is HUMAN. And he sees you like a human. Also I would like to thank the receptionist that ALWAYS confirm for you any information. I have never received from them unexpected bills or missed information. They never put me in any trouble just because they can. These doctors should be highly appreciated, respected and celebrated. Thank you so much! read more

I had to switch over to a different primary due to Dr gendelmans lack of interest in me as a patient The doctor thinks it's 1951 and everything can be done over the phone he doesn't even do video sessions it's three to five minutes on a call. I'm close to 80 I asked about a couple of vaccines and he said well I don't think they're covered by the insurance you cannot get the vaccinations today I'll have to check everything is covered when you're my age and you're on Medicare ALL vaccines are covered. That was the only time I ever saw him in person. I need foot surgery but due to some health issues I need to be cleared by a cardiac doctor. I asked gendleman's office for a referral his front desk clerk said look in the book find somebody and I'll see if I can get a referral put through. I could not in good conscience recommend this doctor to anyone read more

I have had nothing but the best expereince with Dr Gendelman and Juanita his assistant. He is the only doctor I have goen to that takes many of my measurements himself (blood pressure, weight etc). He is very thurough and explains what needs to be done at the end of each visit. Also Juanita is very responsive and if you need to see him, they will get you in quickly. read more

His diagnosis is superb. Very unlike other doctors. Although I visited him in 2008 I still remember him. Hope you are well doc. read more

I don't go to the doctor often, in fact I avoid it if I can but occasionally I have some maintenance stuff I have to deal with so I hit up Doc G. The Borat comments are spot on EXCEPT he is not goofy, don't take that to imply that he is a clown or acts foolish, he doesn't. In fact when you're there he's all business, and I know cause I've tried to joke with him and he kind of stops, looks at me over the tops of his glasses, gives a little laugh and then he's like ok, can we get back to the topic at hand ? He is super dialed on giving you a really clear explanation of whatever is going on, and he LOVES to whip out his pen and draw diagrams on the paper that covers the examining table which is pretty funny, but I have to say, you don't leave with questions. For me that is cool because I never go to the doctor without going to the internet first, for me medical care is collaborative, I walk in informed as a lay person can be. Also, couple years back I was out of work, without coverage, and needed some meds, Doc G hooked me up with some samples to help me out. So cool guy, never had a negative experience of any kind with him, and when I was down he help a brother out, so for that I want to put the good word on the Doc, he's a good guy. read more

Dr. Gendelman is a wonderful, caring and highly knowledgeable doctor. And no, I do not work for him. I've been a patient at this office for 10 years. I was a patient of Dr. Robert A. Mendle (who retired a few years ago at the age of 91!), then a patient of his son, Dr. Robert T. Mendle (who passed away at the age of 57) and now a patient of Dr. Gendelman. I have to say that I am a much healthier person now than I was 3 years ago, thanks to Dr. Gendelman. He always seems to know about new medications on the market, and he has changed my cholesterol and blood pressure medication several times in attempts to achieve the best results. And he has! I have never felt rushed in his office, and he rarely makes me wait. I usually shoot for the 11:30 am appointment - that way, I can leave my office in the Financial District at 11 am and be back at work by 12:30 or so. Parking is a bit of a problem, but it's manageable. If I had to mention something negative about Dr. Gendelman, I would say that their office equipment is indeed really old. So what? Also, Dr. Gendelman is originally from Russia, so he sounds a little bit like Borat. Come to think of it, he kind of looks like him, too. Rest assured, he's a wonderful doctor and he will help you. read more

Dr. Gendelman is an excellent GP. He is thorough, explains his suggestions / diagnoses / treatment plans in detail so you understand what is going on, and he always does his best to make the time to see his patients. He is definitely a "no-nonsense" kind of guy, but he is very helpful and kind and that's what counts. On top of it all, Juana who is his receptionist and manages his appointments is a true GEM. She remembers me by my first name, is always incredibly helpful with all types of questions or requests, and is genuinely a joy. read more

I am not a pleasant patient, and avoid doctors whenever possible. I don't believe much of what I'm told and am distrustful, based on a long history of bad doctor experiences. Dr. Gendelman is the best primary care physician I have ever had, by far. Over the past 5 years He's managed to get me to come in at least once a year, and always sees me promptly if I call with a problem--Shingles, Whooping Cough, a fungal infection and back sprain to date. When you call the phone is answered by a real person, Juana, who is a true gem, and very helpful. Dr. Gendelman is competent and confident. He voluntarily explains his diagnosis and treatment suggestions with the medical information I need. This allows me to follow up with my own research so I can better understand and trust what I'm being told. He is not bothered or patronizing when I come in with my strong opinions, self-diagnoses and attitude, and he listens and hears what I have to say. In 30 years, he is also the first physician to successfully treat my high blood pressure. And he doesn't humiliate me with the "let's step on the scale" routine, or make me sit naked in a cold room with a paper gown for company. He keeps his schedule and while efficient, is caring and thorough. read more

Dr. Gendelman is good. Direct, honest, thorough, and caring. Another reviewer described his manner as gruff. Over a few visits I've come to see this as cutting through BS and wanting to address problems directly and efficiently, not a lack of caring. I can imagine this style not suiting everyone but it suits me. Tell him exactly why you are there, what your concerns are, and he will address them. He's also more methodical than other doctors (or at least verbalizes it more) in excluding possible diagnoses. I like that too. Watch for the twinkle in his eye -- while the Borat comparison probably goes too far, he's got a good sense of humor. read more

My new Doctor! had a semi-emergency and he got me in and took care of me! sold! He knows his stuff and the office runs very well. read more

Arkady Gendelman is a wonderful Dr. When I went in to see him he took my concerns seriously and called me back sooner than I expected with my results. He makes you feel comfortable and his office assistants are the best. I agree the the previous poster on all counts, especially #2 - he doesn't treat you like a baby (unless you are one, of course) and gives you good information so you can make an informed decision. His offices are located right next to UCSF medical center, one of the best cancer centers in the entire world too. There are many labs within walking distance too so things tend to get resolved quickly when Dr. Gendelmen is your doctor. I recommend him strongly. read more

Crooked practices!!! Dr. Gendleman's receptionist instructed me to bring $150 CASH as a "deductible" payment to the appointment. My deductible is zero, but she insisted. I called my insurance company to verify that my deductible was not $150. My insurance company called them to explain that I should have no deductible or co-pay, and was told that if I didn't want to pay cash I should go elsewhere. The problem is that Dr. Gendleman is ALSO billing insurance, so he is paid twice. This is crooked!!! If this has happened to you, notify your insurance company. read more

I've been with Dr' Gendelman for about 4 years. He is fast but efficient and within 10 min of appointment I usually get an answer to all my issues and I usually come with several unrelated things going on. I needed his receptionist to fax me my physical and she did it in a matter of minutes. I didn't really have any serious problems, but those few things I came with were diagnosed and treated appropriately, no complains. I don't really care about bedside manners as much as for professionalism, so to me they were fine. read more

The first appointment I told the man I thought I needed a pyschiatrist for my anxiety medications. The man told me he prescribes anxiety medications. I told him they helped me-I had a prescription already. He said we would discuss it. After 4 months I was out of the medication. This man said he thought I took to many medications-there were 3 prescription medications from a psychiatrist. End of conversation-no prescription, no how this was going to effect me. For new patients this is what you will be dealing with. read more

A few words only needed, patient, caring, scientific, accessible, gives shots painlessly, and explains. Actually a few more words might help. The Doctor is the most well read up to date practitioner I have met. His adjunct faculty status is a good indication of his belief in fact based medicine. I have been a patient for at least 10 years read more

Dr. Gendelman is awesome. Here is why: 1. He takes the time to listen to you, and get a full picture your specific condition 2. He explains his thought process so that you can follow his deductive reasoning as he makes a diagnosis. 3. He discusses treatment options with you - laying out all the pros and cons and helping you make informed choices. 4. He accurately spotted my friend's serious condition and got him to the best specialists. Not only that, he took the time to talk to him and help ease his fears and concerns. 5. It is fairly easy to get an appointment with him, so you if you have a problem you get care - instead of sitting at home worrying and begging for an appointment, as I have had to do with other doctors. 6. His office is across the street from the UCSF Mt. Zion complex so if you need other tests or specialists he can usually get you to someone good quickly. His offices are modest so if you need a slick fancy office to feel like you are getting good medical care, this may not be the practice for you. However if you just want a reliable general practitioner who provides great care and treats you like an intelligent human being, call Dr. Gendelman. read more

Not a terrible doctor, as in, my life was not jeopardized. Unfortunately, though, the man has terrible bedside manner--and I think this may be the case for me more because I am a young female. I could see that men would probably not have as hard of a time with his style. But in terms of reproductive discussions/issues, he basically failed me and I will never see him again, even though, like I said, his medical decisions were not bad; it was his communication style that prevented him from being a person who could make me feel supported and cared for as a female patient. Gruff. I would use the word gruff. read more

My doctor forever. The best. No nonsense. Explains everything. Good judgment. Highly recommended.

office visit - multiple visits. late february to early march. doctor #2 of 6 condition: violent cough for almost 1.5 months. i had a good feeling about dr. gendelman. he listened to what my symptoms were and took the time to outline possible diagnoses. first, we tried nasonex (for allergies). then, nexium (for acid reflux). when those didn't work, i got a chest x-ray. when the x-ray showed that everything was fine, dr. gendelman referred me to an ENT b/c i was starting to experience severe rib pain, and he was at a loss for diagnosing my condition. even though he couldn't determine what i had, i still felt like he adequately listened to my concerns regarding my health. read more

Dr. Gendelman has been my primary care physician for the last 10 years. Whenever I have a medical concern, he is always able to fit me into his schedule. He's very clear about his diagnosis, he's very calm and collected about his discussions of some serious medical topics, and he's also not an alarmist. I feel very comfortable and safe in his care. read more

dr gendelman knows his sh*t but you gotta be down with his 'style' i left them a message 4 minutes ago and had to stop writing this review to answer their return call i am healthier and happier because of dr gendelman read more

Dr. Gendelman's an experienced, nice, no nonsense kind of guy which I appreciate. He's resistant about moving into the computer age & doesn't process electronic payments which is my only issue. read more

I was recommeded to Dr Gendelman by a close friend who had been his patient for years. He is great-friendly, not pushy but business-like in a practical way. He is also not a pill popping promoter so if you are looking to dictate your prescriptions to your physician you should go elsewhere. He will tell you what you need to know in order to understand your condition and give you alternatives. His assistant, Juana, is super sweet! They never hesitate to squeeze me in if something is urgent, which is something I really value. read more

My favorite doctor in SF. Never had any problems - he wont coddle you, so if you are looking for that type of doctor then you had better look elsewhere. read more

I'll start by saying this is my first review, and I'm so worked up over the bad care this doctor has shown my husband. I have to put this out there so others can make an educated decision. So my husband is 30 years old, has blood pressure in the 140's/90's (normal is 120's/70-80's), cholesterol at 230 (normal is below 200), and has a family history of blood pressure/ cholesterol issues. The doc tells him he needs to change his diet (which is true), but that there's nothing other than a diet and exercise that my husband can do, with no mention of medications if diet and exercise don't work. However he then minimizes the value of seeing a nutritionist, and doesn't make a follow-up appointment with him. But instead says, many people have these problems, see you in a year. Being a nurse and dealing with patients who have chronic blood pressure issues, I know that this is really bad care. I'm so disappointed that this doctor is willing to let someone leave his office with the limited advice and no follow-up care to guide my husband for the next year. What if the diet and exercise regimen doesn't work? Why wait a year to discover the potential chronic nature of my husbands condition, and that's one more year of artery damaging cardiovascular disease to tack on, or I should say subtract from my husbands longevity. This is a careless doctor. We will be going elsewhere, and I advise others to steer clear of him as well. read more

My husband and I have been going to Dr. Gendelman since Dr. Mendle died a number of years ago. We both think he is a wonderful doctor. He is knowledgable, empathetic, and efficient, all the qualities that define a good doctor. I have recommended him to friends and family members, and they all share our high opinion of him. read more

Well I only did a search to find his address (I only go once a year to get a blood screening, unless something else comes up). Anyway, I read the review by Tamara and HAD to put my two cents in (everyone seems to need to now a days). Dr. Gendelman is a no B.S. doctor and if that is what you are looking for he IS your man. Suffice it to say that he may prescribe a pill to fix your ailment if something else will work. So America you will not have your hand held by this guy and told that everything is ok and Phizer has something that will take care of it for you. If that is what you are looking for, go elsewhere. read more

Dr. Gendelman is a caring person and a good family doctor. We have been his patients for the past 6 years. He is informed, reliable, and trustworthy. His assistant is very friendly and will try to accomodate time constraints. Recommended. read more

One of the finest Doctors I have ever been cared for by. He cares deeply about his patients, and I cannot recommend him more highly than five stars because that's the limit on Yelp. read more

I would not put a star at all, but it required me to put something up there. I also was a patient of Dr. Mendle's. I have been going to that office for almost 10 years. Dr. Mendle was AMAZING. I am a health care professional and Dr. Mendle and myself had a great patient/doctor relationship. When my care was transferred to Dr. Gendelman, I was ok with it until I had my first appointment with him. I take medication for particular ailments, medications I have been on for years and perfectly happy with my regimen. He tried to change my medications around to newer drugs, making me feel like a drug rep had just been in to visit. If it's not broke, don't fix it. He always seems rushed and I feel like he pushes you out the door. I will even forget questions I wanted to ask because he is so abrupt and always in a hurry (and the office is NOT busy). I had to see him for medications due to a severe accident I was in and he refused to refill my medication. His professionalism and skills are horrible. I would never treat a patient the way he treated myself. I fired him on the spot. Even my surgeon was appalled (and luckily refilled my medication the same day). I tried really hard to like him previously, but that was the final straw. Done. I found a much better doctor, more knowledgeable and she listens to what I have to say and answers all my questions without making me feel rushed. I would never recommend him to anyone. The only positive thing I do have to say is that his receptionist is wonderful and very pleasant. She has always returned my calls promptly. It is easy to make an appointment here, because all of Dr. Mendle's patients have left, so the patient load has dramatically decreased. I lived 1 block away so he was convenient, but now my doc is at my work and just 1 floor below me! read more