At first, I appreciated Dr. Rostorfer for his knowledge and kindness, but I’ve since realized that his approach to patient care is deeply flawed. I no longer feel safe with him as my oncologist. He fails to communicate test results, does not provide proper exams, neglects to discuss all treatment options, and knowingly allows an inaccurate radiologist to read PET scans. My experiences with his office have been frustrating, and I’m sharing my story to warn others.
I am not new to cancer or the oncology world. I’ve been battling breast cancer for 15 years, with 3 diagnoses (including 2 recurrences) and 10 surgeries. I’ve endured multiple treatments, including chemo, radiation, and hormone therapy, along with numerous side effects like heart failure, pulmonary embolisms, neuropathy, and infections. I know the ins and outs of cancer care, and Dr. Rostorfer’s office fails in many critical areas.
Negligent Examinations: Dr. Rostorfer performs examinations over clothing and a bra, which makes… it impossible to check for lumps, discoloration or physical changes accurately. This is simply unacceptable, especially for someone with breast cancer.
Lack of Communication: I’ve been seeing Dr. Rostorfer since June 2021, but he has never called me with the results of my PET scans, despite the results being available on the patient portal. I have to wait weeks for an appointment to discuss my results. This delay is inhumane, especially for a stage-four cancer patient. My oncologist in New York always called me with the results the same day. Additionally, the office staff is unhelpful & often rude, making it difficult to get any answers or assistance.
Failure to Discuss All Treatment Plans: When my cancer spread to my bones, Dr. Rostorfer did not put me a standard treatment for bone cancer. When I brought it up after consulting my New York oncologist, Dr. Rostorfer agreed I should be on it, but why did I, the patient, have to suggest it? This negligence is concerning & shows a lack of thorough care.
Unprofessional Leave of Absence: Dr. Rostorfer recently took a leave of absence without informing me about it or who I should turn to in the case of an emergency. I was left in the dark about who to turn to for my care. This lack of communication was unprofessional.
Inaccurate Reports: Dr. Rostorfer allows a radiologist, Dr. Damita Thomas, to read my scans despite her consistent failure to report the size of nodules. This is crucial because doctors rely on the size of nodules to determine whether cancer is progressing. I’ve raised concerns with Dr. Rostorfer and his team, but they have failed to address the issue. I’ve had to escalate the matter with other departments, but the problem persists. I have now taken matters into my own hands and have my New York oncologist read my scans to ensure accuracy.
Unhelpful Office Staff: The office staff, especially the receptionist and director, Natalia, have shown little empathy or concern for my distress. When I urgently needed help with my PET scan results, I had to repeatedly call and beg for assistance. They were dismissive of my emotional state and showed no compassion. This lack of empathy is unacceptable, especially when dealing with life-threatening illness. I have actually said to them, "You are causing me great emotional distress right now. I need you to help me," but the receptionist seemed annoyed that I was so upset.
A Lack of Accountability: Dr. Rostorfer and his staff have consistently failed to take responsibility for their mistakes. I’ve had to fight for every step of my care, from obtaining accurate test results to receiving timely communication. This is not how a cancer patient should be treated. My New York oncologist is appalled by the incompetence I’ve experienced with Dr. Rostorfer’s office and the radiologist’s reports.
Final Thoughts: I am severing ties with Dr. Rostorfer and seeking legal advice, as I do not want anyone else to endure the same treatment. The stress and emotional toll
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