Anthony A. Baldoni, MD

I had a colonoscopy performed by Dr. Baldoni in July, 2023. I can't give an opinion as to his medical expertise but his bedside manner leaves much to be desired. When he came in for the pre-op discussion he started berating me about using Cologuard instead of having a colonoscopy that had been scheduled some years before. He continued with his condescending manner telling me that I shouldn't have used Cologuard prior to this colonoscopy. He told me I had a high risk polyp with my first colonoscopy and I should have had another one done in three years instead of five. His berating attitude continued as if I was a two year old child. As with these preps I had been up all night and was in a weakened condition so I didn't feel like arguing with this doctor especially since he was getting ready to do surgery on me. What I wanted to tell him was 1) a decision made by a doctor when I had my first colonoscopy to schedule it out five years instead of three was not my fault 2) the doctor… never told me I had a high risk polyp and 3) Cologuard can only be obtained with a physician's order. The first time I used Cologuard the GP knew, or should have seen on my records, that I was supposed to have another colonoscopy but she allowed me to use Cologuard. Yes, I made the decision to go this route as, like most people, I didn't think I could tolerate going through the prep again. The Cologuard test came back negative (which can also be a false negative) of which I was aware of. Patients should have the right to make their own health care decisions after weighing all the options whether it be right or wrong. Dr. Baldoni also blamed me for a decision a doctor made allowing me to use Cologuard. If he doesn't like other doctors allowing patients to use Cologuard he needs to take up his argument with them. And, also, if he doesn't like patients to use Cologuard at all he needs to address this with the patient in a more professional manner. Before the colonoscopy in July I had to use Cologuard again because due to staffing shortages and procedures being postponed during covid Carilion was backlogged (which is understandable). This doctor should have been appreciative that I was prescribed the Cologuard because the results showed the presence of blood. I am happy to report that I had two small polyps which were benign. I do not recommend this doctor, and if you go in for a colonoscopy and he is assigned to you be aware he may treat you as unprofessionally as he treated me. I also responded to a follow-up survey from Carilion regarding this procedure and Dr. Baldoni. I have never heard anything from them. I can only assume with the length of time that has passed the survey got lost in the shuffle or it was just ignored.