After my dad passed, I had some type of inflammatory attack to all my joints. Especially my hands, knees & elbows. Yes, I've had sore joints & muscles from time to time, but nothing like this. I was unable to walk for 2weeks w/no explanation as to why. So, my primary doc referred me to rheumatology & Dr. Sharma was unfortunately the one I saw. After waiting 4 months for an appt, on day of my appt, they canceled as the doc was sick. But, then had to wait another 2 months to be seen. I was desperate for help.
He was 20 minutes late to my appt and told me he didn't even have time to look at med history prior. So, he took time DURING my appt for that...not asking me, but going over computer notes. THUS, leaving about 15-20 minutes for my consultation. After briefly checking my knees, hands & elbows...I asked him why I suddenly had "knots or bumps" on the bones of joints on my fingers-in a matter of a few months? His reply..."well, as women age they get ugly swollen joints & fingers!" Wow..talk about gas lighting & misogyny. I'm in early 50's, have NEVER had any signs of this until this incident. He did not appear to care or want to hear what I had to say...especially since he only had about 15 actual minutes with me after his late arrival and neglect in reviewing my records.
So, in a matter of MINUTES, he was late for my appt; which showed no regard for my time OR $$$ that I'd be paying, he insulted me; not only as a woman, but as a healthy patient who was worried & scared, he dismissed my concerns and left me feeling like I was just a number & not a person. He took a number of blood tests, which I appreciated, but when they showed nothing...I was yet again DISMISSED in my follow-up zoom consult. I didn't even have the energy to defend myself so I just nodded & listened to his dismissive BS. I wish I could go back and speak up-I was just caught off guard. It was one of the worst medical experiences with a physician in my life. Big lesson for me...just because someone is a medical professional, DOES NOT mean they're entitled to demean, dismiss or ignore you as a human being. read more