I had been a patient at this office for several years. I initially saw Kristen who had always been extremely nice and thoughtful. However, the treatment we tried was unsuccessful. Finally I was able to book an appointment with Dr. Semler. I insisted at this point. I saw him a handful of times and his initial treatment plan made a considerable difference in my health. Antibiotics were needed. My health issues/concerns have been ongoing and that is where we seemed to hit a wall. My last appointment with Dr. Semler left me feeling very uncomfortable. In addition, I was unaware appointments are fifteen minutes in length. To start off my appointment, I told the doctor that I have a list of questions/concerns. Six to eight talking points. Politely he said, go right ahead as he was starting his follow up checkup. My appointment lasted fifteen minutes. As such, once the doctor felt he was finished with his objective he proceeded to walk out of the patient examiner room at a hurried pace. I quickly asked the doctor, when will I be able to go over my concerns. His angered and harsh reply, I have other patients! Your next appointment. Well, my next appointment was scheduled three months down the road. That makes absolutely no sense as I have ongoing skin/health issues that have to be addressed. I tried reaching him and his office staff several times over the phone. Finally, I received a call back weeks after the initial call to his office. I simply wanted to understand the parameters of the consultations and treatments. This way I'll know how to best communicate with the doctor in a timely manner that allows for proper care and good communication. The receptionist who called back told me of the patient portal system but was not familiar and asked if I'd open up a computer so we can figure it out together. Who has time to stop what they're doing and figure out a patient portal with a staff member who has made clear she doesn't know how to navigate the portal? No one! I asked for a call from the office manager at that point. Yammani the office manager called at an unannounced time as is usual practice at this office. She told me to use the portal to communicate with the doctor and explained the steps in which to do so. I hadn't used the portal up to this point. I proceeded to tell her that I am following up because of the events that unfolded during my last appointment. She began to berate me and defend Doctor Semler. Going as far as to tell me that my story was not true etc. The thought that I would waste my time to call the office only to ask how I can best communicate with the doctor to ensure my appointments are properly scheduled baffles me. I pay hundreds of dollars for fifteen minutes of care only to realize the doctor has the audacity to walk out of the appointment without even bringing it to a proper and professional close. It's horrible posture. Yammani told me I would be able to select Dr. Semler under the Send To column. That's not the case. Apparently, the messaging system in the portal only sends messages to a general nurse or receptionist messaging box. (Based on the options available under the send to column.) I sent Doctor Semler an e-mail message. I explained my concerns and how his behavior, lack of professionalism, and care for me as his patient left me bewildered. I gave the option to seek other professional care if he believes he is unable to take on my healthcare. His response was vague at best. He spoke of a doctor/patient relationship being based on trust. Well, he made sure that I understood he was willing to break that trust when he walked out of the room without even saying a word before I blurted out. I also asked that he clarify the reason behind prescribing the antibiotics. I need to know what was or most likely had been affecting my body. He should know or have a real good idea since he prescribed the antibiotic. How do I properly care for myself when I don't know what's out of alignment in my body. i.e. diet and fitness program He ignored my request for information. Simply passing it over. He did provide several dermatologists in the area. I asked for recommendations.
In addition to the fall out, reaching the nurses or doctor over the phone has always been an impossible task. I usually call back at least one more time a week after an initial call before a nurse returns my call. It is very difficult to book an appointment with the doctor. There is no availability in addition to a short work week. The office on multiple occasions did not call me when lab results had arrived. The receptionist desk is not knowledgeable on related appointment costs and fees. It's my opinion that the office culture lacks professionalism and sensitivity when handling patient issues and or working with patients. These are basic tasks. Yet the professionalism and patience are lacking. Why would patients entrust this office with more complex issues? read more
