Yall know how seriously I take medical care as a fat Black woman. When I find a practice that cares for me as a whole person I will amplify them accordingly.
First things first, it is incredibly hard to find a surgical dermatologist. In this field it often seems like aesthetics over everything. Before the pandemic ruined everyone's life I was being seen at 2 practices in north jersey - the first one didn't seem to understand why I would be bothered that my alopecia spots weren't healing and the second practice stopped taking insurance after my second appointment. As each injection is hundreds of dollars lmao that promising relationship ended quickly. Healthcare for the rich indeed.
For the last 5 years I've been managing the patchiness on my own to inconsistent effect. Recently, another unrelated issue requiring surgery kicked me into high gear to find a new provider. I sought recs from my local FB group, friends and family, etc but they all kept leading me down cottage skincare and other lanes. It was actually a good old-fashioned Google search that led me to Dr. Patel. Bravo on winning the SEO game!
From the moment I called (and rescheduled thrice due to car trouble - dang it MINI), the office was welcoming, accommodating, and scheduling relatively quick appointments.
On my first visit, Dr.Patel and his team were thorough, curious, and caring. I felt so comfortable with them and I felt like I mattered. In many ways women become "invisible" after age 40 - add race and body size to the mix and it can be difficult to get the care and compassion needed to navigate health challenges.
Dr. Patel suggested I get a full blood work up - and actually caught my low iron and anemia. So many somatic mysteries cleared up just because someone listened and cared.
I have a surgical procedure scheduled in a few weeks that will bring me immediate comfort and the topical meds and injections Dr. Patel is giving me have restarted hair growth in some persistent patchy spots.
I'm very thankful I found this practice! read more