This clinic isn't bad for general gynecological annuals, blood work or contraceptive surveillance…read more
Like many clinics, the phone number you call to book an appointment will be a company call center, not the direct number for your location of choice. If you request the phone number, you might be able to reach the direct location.
It's unfortunate that they don't provide telehealth appointments for something like oral contraceptive refills or discussing lab results (even 2 former physicians agreed with this and ended up extending my refills so that I wouldn't have to keep returning). I'm sure this is something on the higher ups end to enforce as an option.
There are new physicians every few months, so you may not always get the same one from your last visit, but turnover rate or new opportunity is common everywhere.
Cleanliness for the public restrooms, especially when most women need to provide a urine sample, could use work. Toilet paper and soap are not always restocked or available, so bring your own pack of wipes or tissues incase... There is no proper holder for the toilet paper and it has rolled onto the floor a few times to where I had to throw it out to avoid spreading contamination. A closed holder would help. Unsure how many people have been considerate enough to avoid spreading germs.
Communication can improve, especially in medical settings. You will be told different things by different employees you encounter like: "You can only receive sonogram / ultrasound results by an emailed CD. We don't post them on the portal or print it out", only to come and find that they might end up actually uploading it to the portal, or a more understanding physician can give you the physical copy right there... Also had a recent issue where they gave me the wrong address for their Manhattan Surgical Center for a Hysteroscopy, because they probably didn't communicate this to their staff, so not blaming the receptionist here. They had the old address on their printed information sheet. Be aware that there are 2 surgical locations. For those who cannot travel to Lake Success, there is a Manhattan location on specific days. Was given the run around by call and text and told my chosen time and date was not available and at the wrong location after all, pushing options for fibroid surgery even later.
You might find on your visit summary that you were prescribed a medication that was not discussed during your visit. I understand that some medications can be prescribed after reviewing lab results, but this seems like a medication that was added right after my visit on the portal before completed lab results. I think these are important factors regarding patients who need surgery or need to know what these prescriptions might be used for. Best to call the patient to address this and inform them. Had to call and text, just to be told "we'll relay your message", and the only option is to have you come in before your follow up in person to find out. This needs work. I've also checked the portal through there limited options and to confirm, there is no way to message any provider through it...
Updating to a system where the patient can message their provider directly can help clarify anything that was not discussed during the visit, or questions that in general do not need an appointment. Not blaming the staff you encounter, as it's understandable that they can only work with the system they are given and that's out of their control.
Just some things to consider.
There might be a bit of a wait depending, but not everyone is willing to understand that physicians and staff need to attend to each patients needs, are performing a procedure and trying their best. Not every patient can handle how painful a IUD or swab might be. Also, understand that there are more patients than physicians. You'll get seen when you get seen. Just show up on time or earlier. They will attend to you with patience.
The staff from receptionists, medical assistants and physicians are welcoming and kind!
Wendy Shi was an informative and attentive PA! Angelina made the ultrasound/sonogram experience more comfortable as well. Thank you to the phlebotomist/medical assistant (I'm sorry, I was too nervous to remember her name) who made the process calming.
Other than that, I like that they've added the texting option for booking appointments, a mobile pre-check in before even showing up and text reminders for your upcoming appointments. I also really appreciate the medical assistants taking all your vitals. Some clinics don't even weight you or do the proper and efficient patient intake per visit.