I needed a new PCM since the first doctor I saw in SD is possibly the worst doctor I've ever seen. So, after searching the TriCare database for General Physicians, I came accross Dr. Price. No Yelp reviews on her, but I thought I'd give her a try since she was accepting new TriCare patients and her office is close to home.
The first time I called to make an appointment with Dr. Price, I was informed that the Doctor likes to see her new patients for a half-hour to talk about concerns and to answer questions. I was flabbergasted! A whole half-hour just to shoot the shit with me about.....me???? Score! And, so I went to my first appointment and we did just that. She was on time, she listened to me, and answered all of my questions with honesty. I told her I needed a referral to a Gynocologist, and she said that she gives pelvic exams and can refer me to a specialist if I need one. I was happy to just see her for the exam. The fewer doctors, the better.
Between the initial meeting and my next appointment, I developed a sinus infection that hung around for a couple of days. I called Dr. Price to see if it was necessary to come in. The receptionist told me her nurse assistant would call me. The nurse didn't call me; Dr. Price did. She told me to do a saline rinse, take some sudafed, and to come in if it lasted more than another couple of days. I felt so cared for and genuinely impressed that she called and didn't make me come in unnecessarily.
So, today, I went to see Dr. Price for my cookie exam. Her assistant took my temperature, my blood pressure, etc., then led me to the examination room where she instructed me to stay dressed until after the doctor came in to talk to me about any questions or concerns I might have before I get undressed. HOLD THE PHONE!!!! She comes in to talk to me BEFORE I get naked????? My very first gyno at Kaiser in Novato, CA did that, and no other gyno I've ever seen since switching to TriCare gave me that consideration. I once read in a magazine that this is one of the hall-marks of what a good gyno does. And it makes sense.... it's uncomfortable to communicate clearly about concerns, or to even remember what your concerns are, while you're naked. I never quite feel like I'm being taken seriously when I'm wearing a paper gown. The doctor giving me that time made me feel respected and cared for. I never felt rushed or that she was in a hurry to get me in and out of there. I feel like these are things every doctor should do, but seldom do.
So, began the exam. I have to say, the speculum was in and out of there without delay; just long enough for her to get what she needed. I went to a gyno once who would leave the speculum in there longer than necessary for no apparent reason. The only thing missing today was the breast exam. She never checked them. No love for the boobies today. Other than that, I loved the experience. I would, without a doubt, reccommend Dr. Price to just about anyone. read more