One Star - Concerns Regarding Communication, Professionalism, and Patient Experience
I am a healthcare professional with over 39 years of experience, and it is very uncommon for me to write a negative public review. However, based on multiple firsthand experiences, I feel it is important to share my concerns regarding this practice.
I have been a patient of Dr. Thomas Cioce for several years and typically only see him for routine care. Approximately two months ago, I scheduled an appointment for medical clearance for surgery. During that visit, Dr. Cioce questioned why I was seeing him rather than a nurse practitioner. After I explained that I required physician clearance, the visit felt rushed and dismissive and lasted only a few minutes.
On December 29, 2025, my 74-year-old husband developed a fever and cough. I contacted the office to schedule an appointment and spoke with Ellen, a member of the front office staff. I was advised to take my husband to the emergency room. I explained that this was not a life-threatening emergency and that we were seeking evaluation through his primary care provider. An appointment was eventually scheduled, and my husband tested positive for COVID-19 and received treatment.
Later that same day, after I developed similar symptoms, I contacted the office seeking guidance. I was informed that no appointments were available and was advised to seek care elsewhere. When I attempted to explain my symptoms and recent exposure, the call was ended by the staff member. I called back on two additional occasions and was hung up on each time after being told no appointments were available. Being repeatedly hung up on while ill and seeking guidance from one's primary care office is unacceptable.
As a result, I was forced to seek care at an urgent care center, where I waited four hours to be seen. Notably, the first question I was asked upon arrival was, "Why didn't your primary care doctor see you?" This situation was entirely preventable and reflects poorly on the coordination and accessibility of care at this practice.
The only reason I have continued care at this practice is due to Amber, the nurse practitioner, who has consistently demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and thorough care. My concerns do not reflect her performance.
I strongly recommend that Dr. Cioce and the front office staff receive customer service and patient-communication training. If individuals are unable or unwilling to treat patients with basic courtesy and professionalism, they should reconsider working in a patient-facing healthcare role.
I also attempted to escalate these concerns within the organization but was unable to obtain clear information regarding corporate leadership or the corporate office. I encourage anyone reading this review to contact the office directly to understand the communication challenges firsthand.
My intent in writing this review is to provide factual feedback and to encourage meaningful improvements in professionalism, communication, and patient care. read more