Our experience with Valley Neurology Group has been nothing short of a complete disaster, deserving the lowest possible review. What began with a three-month wait for an appointment, based on a misleading suggestion from their receptionist, culminated in a series of cancellations, blatant misinformation, and an utterly disrespectful in-office experience. My father has been denied crucial treatment that he should have received months ago, and this clinic is entirely to blame.
The Unacceptable Wait and Shambolic Scheduling
Three months ago, my father, seeking neurological care, was advised by a Valley Neurology Group receptionist to schedule his appointment at an "alternative location" that was supposedly "better and more convenient." We trusted this advice, believing it would expedite his care. Instead, it set us on a path of endless delays.
As his July 19th appointment finally approached, we received a confirmation call on Thursday. We arranged transportation, anticipating his long-awaited consultation. However, the very next day, Friday at 2 PM, Valley Neurology Group called again, informing us they needed to reschedule because the location he was scheduled for "does not exist." This was an outrageous claim, especially given their own receptionist had recommended it. My father, though frustrated, conceded to a longer trip to Bakersfield, just wanting to get checked out and begin treatment.
A Day of Endless Waiting and Disregard
Our trip to Bakersfield was planned meticulously to make the long drive worthwhile. We arrived at the Calloway Drive office well ahead of schedule, hoping to be seen early. After filling out paperwork, we inquired about an earlier slot, but despite the receptionist's assurance she would "try," it never happened.
We sat in the lobby, witnessing patients who arrived after us being called in and leaving, while my father's anxiety grew. We overheard another patient, whose appointment was at 1:30 PM, still waiting three hours later. This confirmed our fears: this clinic operates with an utter disregard for patients' time.
Lies, Gaslighting, and a Refusal to Address Complaints
My father's patience finally ran out. When I attempted to reschedule and voice our concerns, the front desk's response was appalling. I explained the three-month wait based on their misleading advice, followed by the cancellation and the preposterous claim that their Tehachapi office "does not exist." The receptionist, contradicting their previous claim, then stated there was an office in Tehachapi but they weren't "accepting new appointments." When I clarified that this wasn't a "new" appointment but one scheduled three months prior, she offered a dismissive "I'm sorry for the confusion." There was no confusion on our part; we were lied to and made to wait for no reason.
When I questioned the two conflicting confirmation calls, she couldn't provide a coherent answer. I then asked for a contact number or name to file a formal complaint, but she repeatedly refused, offering only to relay a message, write a note, or suggest I leave a voicemail on their automated service. This complete lack of accountability and empathy is infuriating. When asked if such long wait times were typical, her blunt "yes" sealed our decision to seek care elsewhere.
A Broken System and a Call for Accountability
Valley Neurology Group's website further adds to the deception, stating their Tehachapi location is "coming soon," yet their confirmation texts and website address contradict this. They seemingly operate a "fully functional office that apparently doesn't exist." The front office staff displayed zero empathy, remaining "calm and collected" while delivering condescending and gaslighting remarks. This experience is a stark example of a healthcare system broken by individuals who clearly prioritize a paycheck over patient care.
Shame on Valley Neurology Group. I can only hope my father's condition doesn't worsen due to the treatment he was denied for three agonizing months. We will be seeking a new neurologist immediately. read more
