After waiting three weeks, I arrived at my appointment for laser treatment of a few irritating, ingrown eyelashes (trichiasis). I waited over an hour, and then when I finally see Dr. Putnoi, he asks me what I am there for! Really?? I tell him the laser treatment to remove the irritating eyelashes. He tells me the technician who does this is not in the office that week and he is not registered to do it. What?? Then why did the staff book my appointment? Why didn't someone call to cancel? He had no answer. But he did want me to reschedule! No thanks! Oh, and by the way there will still be an office visit charge!
A few weeks later, while at CVS for something else, the pharmacist mentions that Dr. Putnoi prescribed Avenova (without telling me!) This useless item is basically just a saline solution. Of course I told her to cancel that prescription. The reason for the unannounced prescription was because drug companies pay doctors to prescribe their newest meds. In return the doctors are rewarded in various ways. You can do an online search to find out how this little scam works. Naturally, the pharmaceutical companies track these prescriptions so they can calculate their return on investment from each doctor. Its not illegal, but I personally find it unethical - especially if it is done without the patient's knowledge.
Needless to say, my whole experience with Dr. Putnoi and his office was less than satisfactory. My advice is to avoid him. read more
