I would strongly caution anyone with a complicated or unclear rash against relying on this urgent…read morecare for a diagnosis.
On August 2nd, I went to this urgent care because I had developed a rash that was concerning to me. The physician I saw was extremely dismissive and rude. He barely examined the rash, did not take the time to listen to my concerns, and did not answer the questions I had. I was essentially in and out within five minutes and was prescribed an antifungal ointment without any testing to confirm that the rash was actually fungal.
I used the prescribed ointment for approximately two weeks and began developing additional skin reactions in the areas where I was applying it. I called the urgent care, explained what was happening, and was instructed to come back.
On August 11th, I returned and saw a different physician. I appreciated that he at least looked at the rash, but my concerns were again dismissed. The rash was once again diagnosed as a fungal infection without any KOH testing or other diagnostic testing performed on the lesions. I was told to discontinue the ointment and was instead prescribed a 30-day course of oral terbinafine.
I took the medication as prescribed, but there was no improvement. In fact, the rash continued spreading and became significantly more widespread.
At that point, I called the urgent care again because I wanted to speak with the physician and ask for a referral or guidance on where I could have a KOH test performed, since I had already been told that their facility did not perform that testing. I never received a call back. There was no follow-up, no discussion with the physician, and no assistance in determining what was actually going on.
After repeatedly trying to get answers and receiving no meaningful follow-up, I finally went to a dermatologist.
The difference in care was honestly shocking.
The dermatologist actually listened to me, carefully examined the lesions, took my concerns seriously, and performed the appropriate evaluation/testing. I was ultimately diagnosed with pityriasis rosea--not a fungal infection and not ringworm. I was also advised to discontinue the antifungal medications because they were treating something I did not have, and I was counseled about the potential risks associated with unnecessary oral terbinafine, including liver toxicity.
What is most frustrating is that I repeatedly questioned the fungal diagnosis because the rash continued to spread and did not seem consistent with what I was experiencing. I sought a second opinion at the same urgent care, and instead of investigating further, I was prescribed a stronger antifungal medication.
I understand that medicine isn't always straightforward and that an initial diagnosis can sometimes be incorrect. What I have a problem with is the lack of thorough examination, lack of diagnostic testing, dismissal of my concerns, and complete lack of follow-up when I reached out for help.
I spent weeks treating an infection I did not have, worrying that I was contagious when I wasn't, and taking medication that I ultimately did not need.
The dermatologist was the first provider throughout this experience who made me feel heard and taken seriously.
Patients deserve better than being rushed out the door with a prescription and then being ignored when they call back because the treatment isn't working. If you're unsure of a diagnosis, say that you're unsure and investigate further. Don't simply continue treating the wrong condition while ignoring the patient's concerns.
I sincerely hope this clinic takes this feedback seriously and reevaluates how it handles patients with persistent or undiagnosed conditions.
