Dr. Rachel Mlanao, MD

Dr Rachel Mlanao is a very caring and gentle physician. I had seen several doctors in the past and was starting to feel cynical about the medical profession and what I felt at the time was disrespect and lack of care. It's only recently that I came to understand that the doctors themselves under a lot of stress. Despite all of this Dr Mlanao listened to my issues. As a middle aged woman with many recurring issues I need someone to have the patience to listen and explain the best course of action. Dr Mlanao did that and even more, going as far as calling me home to make sure I was ok and I was following her instructions. I feel blessed and happy that I am finally under the care of the right doctor. Anyone who thinks of her as cold, disrespectful or infantilizing clearly does not understand the modern medical care landscape. I wish Dr Mlanao the best in her career.

Never have I ever had a doctor treat me like a child, tear apart my medical choices without allowing an explanation, and assume I must know absolutely nothing about my health. After knowing my for 2 minutes she was quick to judge a routine that multiple doctors over the years have concluded is the best option for me. Was suggested one alternative treatment that I've tried, and looked at sideways when I mentioned it never worked (not when I was a child, teenager, or adult). Not sure why I should waste my time trying again. Was suggested another alternative treatment that is far out of my budget. When I mentioned that, she again looked at my like I was a child who was fibbing and said she would look into it. I reviewed my benefits again after leaving and I was correct. Finally, I mentioned a situation with my current building that is triggering my symptoms. She was condescending about this, repeating several times that it will just make my symptoms worse. Yes, I know, that's why I… mentioned it and why I'm having it fixed. Not sure what else I'm supposed to do, pay to break my lease (which would involve paying the remaining months rent plus a fine) and then move? Or be a responsible adult and have the issue corrected? I honestly left and cried, feeling so judged for a lifelong issue without a cure. Went in frustrated, left feeling worse. Perhaps I'm being too quick to judge off of one interaction, but I'm used to doctors that treat me like a capable adult. Dr. Mlanao actually compared me to her child, as if her kids health and treatment means I should follow the same routine. I will be returning to see someone else who will hopefully let me discuss things before cutting in and judging.