I feel like I should preface with the fact that I spent years working in an ophthalmologist office…read morewith a high-volume of patients and I very much understand the inner-workings of this type of medical office.
My mother called me on the morning of Sunday 2/23 to ask what I knew of retinal tears. She was experiencing a very sudden onset of big, dark floaters in one eye that appeared to be trailing through her eyesight like "wisps of black smoke."
That same day she went to urgent care, who immediately urged her to go to the ER because they suspected retinal damage. ER encouraged her to see an ophthalmologist, because they also suspected retinal damage, but couldn't do anything. I do believe, however, the ER is responsible for solidifying her appointment with her doctor the next day; I know that an emergency appointment on a Monday morning is no easy thing for any ophthalmologist office.
My mom called early Monday morning 2/24 (she said she knew the office opened at 8am but that they actually answered her call a little before that time, kudos to reception!!!). She was told to be in the office by 10am and to have someone to drive her. My dad was able to meet her there and she was checked in by 10am; but the office was packed. There were many patients waiting to be seen, and even more bodies because, remember, many eye appointments require dilation, which require a driver for said patient!
My mom already felt really defeated by her urgent care and following ER visit.
However, after being checked in at 10am, she was pre-tested, in a room, and with a doctor by 10:30am (just 30 minutes!). She and my father both said they felt the office was efficient, attentive, and very supportive of her emergency visit.
Both of my parents also expressed the quality of care my mom received from Dr. Adrean. I have an even deeper appreciation for this because I know, from the office side, what it means to squeeze in an emergency patient that wasn't expected. However, my mom and dad both felt comfortable, confident, and well-attended to by both office staff and Dr. Adrean during their visit.
Specifically, which I very much appreciate, he told my mother that "in good conscious I can't let you leave because I would feel guilty if your condition worsened." Retinal tears are serious. "Time is of the essence" when it comes to retinal tears, and ultimately it could result in retinal detachment, and possibly blindness. Dr. Adrean was quick, but efficient and considerate, and I cannot be grateful enough to hear BOTH of my parents express their feelings of quality care from the office staff and the doctor. Dr. Adrean was kind, and relatable, and most importantly, he made my mother feel like she was the only patient he was thinking of when he was with her.
In emergency situations, this is above and beyond. My parents are not easy people; my mom's dramatic as heck and my dad's the guy that makes you sit in reception while he embarrasses you discussing tiny mistakes with the front desk that don't really matter.
But both of my parents had nothing but amazing things to say about this office, their staff, their efficiency regarding triage, and Dr. Adrean (who had to stick a large needle in my mom's eye, and they both still like the guy).
Thank you for making an emergency situation feel a little more normal to my parents. The following day my mom is able to laugh about the extremeness of the situation, ONLY because she was treated so well. It could have been so different for her. I am so grateful for everyone who played a part in making my mom's crappy situation a little less crappy.
I will be calling the office to personally extend my thanks. Bravo!!!
