I had a very upsetting experience with Dr. Khawam. I have been dealing with severe back pain for…read morealmost a year, and the pain has significantly affected my sleep, daily activities, and ability to work. I attempted to have an MRI done three separate times, but because of my severe claustrophobia, I was unable to complete it. I came to see the doctor because I wanted to know if there were other options, such as sedation, that could allow me to get the MRI or if there were other tests that could help determine what was causing my pain.
Instead of listening to my concerns, I felt that I was being dismissed. He questioned why I needed the MRI and what I thought it was going to show. He told me that my options were physical therapy and losing weight and suggested that my weight was likely the reason for my back pain.
I understand that my weight is something I need to address, but I know my body, and I know that the severe pain I have been experiencing is not something I should simply be told to live with because of my weight. I was looking for a doctor to listen to me and help determine why I have been in so much pain.
When I became upset, he told me to give him a moment while he spoke with a colleague. When he returned, I felt that his attitude toward me was even worse. He asked me what I thought was wrong with me. At that point, I became overwhelmed and walked out because I no longer felt comfortable continuing the conversation.
I want to give a special thank-you to the front desk staff. They listened to me when I came out of the room upset, allowed me to explain what had happened, and helped me get connected with Corrina, the nurse. I truly appreciate them taking my concerns seriously instead of ignoring what had happened.
I am also very grateful to Corrina, who called me, listened to me, apologized for my experience, and told me she would speak with the doctor and his supervisor. Most importantly, she actually helped me move forward. She was able to get a CT scan ordered as an alternative since I could not complete the MRI, as well as referrals to neurology and neurosurgery to explore other options, including ways I may eventually be able to complete an MRI.
My CT results showed that there are issues with my spine that require further evaluation, which was extremely upsetting to me because I felt that I had initially been ready to be dismissed as simply being overweight.
I am sharing this review because patients deserve to be listened to, treated with compassion, and taken seriously, especially when they are experiencing severe pain. I am thankful that I spoke up for myself and that the front desk staff and Corrina took the time to listen and advocate for me. Without their help, I don't know if I would have gotten the additional testing and referrals I needed.
Thank you to the front desk staff and especially Corrina for treating me with kindness and helping me when I felt like I wasn't being heard.
