Francine Samuels, MD

I am writing to share feedback regarding a recent consultation my daughter had with Dr. Francine. Unfortunately, our experience was disappointing and left us quite frustrated. During the appointment, Dr. Francine seemed uncertain about the next steps in my daughter’s care. We were given over 25 pages of printouts with little explanation or clear instructions. In addition, for the stool test, Dr. Francine informed us that we would need to obtain the sample kit directly from the lab. However, when we contacted the lab, we were told that the kit should be provided by the doctor. This back-and-forth has caused unnecessary confusion and delay in my daughter’s care. We would appreciate clarification on how to proceed with the test and assurance that such communication issues will be addressed going forward.

I’m writing this with deep frustration and concern. I booked an appointment for my 3-month-old daughter with high hopes of receiving the care she needs. After the appointment was scheduled, I was called and informed that the doctor wouldn’t be available in person, and it would need to be done virtually. Though I was hesitant, I reluctantly agreed because her health is my priority. After paying for the appointment, signing all the forms, and logging in 15 minutes early as instructed, there was no sign of any link or way to start the visit. I called the office, desperate for answers, but no one could provide any clarity. Then, to make matters worse, the receptionist informed me—without any empathy—that the provider, and I quote, “does not have time to see us because she has to move on to other patients.” It’s hard to put into words how invalidating and dismissive that statement felt. We were not just another appointment; we were a concerned family seeking help for an urgent matter.… There was absolutely no effort to accommodate us, despite the fact that we were early and had done everything required. When I expressed my need for a refund, the receptionist didn’t even acknowledge my distress and simply put me on hold without saying a word. This lack of care and basic professionalism is appalling, especially given that this is about the health of a small baby. Now, we’re left with no choice but to take my daughter to the hospital to ensure she’s okay. What makes this even more heartbreaking is that this doctor is one of the few specialists in gastrointestinal pediatrics in the area. I can only hope we’re able to find another provider—one who sees patients as human beings with real concerns, rather than just another copay. I feel completely let down and deeply worried for my daughter’s health. This experience was not just frustrating; it was a painful reminder of how impersonal and uncaring healthcare can be at times.

Staff was very rude and non accommodating. I will never bring my daughter back here. Nurse was very unprofessional stating just stop sugar when that wasn't even the problem.

Seems that whether your child is a new patient or an established patient they will not be able to schedule an appointment 4 at least 1 month. Even if you describe that your child is sick, vomiting, having painful episodes of diarrhea w/blood it just doesn't matter. You can call until your fingers fall off, speak to Gallo in the front office or either of the 2 RNs & you still won't have a chance of having your sick child seen. Don't waste your time or allow your child to suffer there.

Dr. Samuels did not give a clear diagnosis for my daughter. My daughter had stomach issues since birth and Dr. Samuels did not even give a physical examination to my daughter; she just chalked it up to reflux and a milk protein allergy. the nurses did not even check her vitals just her weight and height. I had to do my own research on infant reflux in order to request a medication because the initial medication dr. Samuels put her on made her vomit all her food after every dose. My daughter was misdiagnosed with a milk protein allergy. I only saw Dr. Samuels once and then was only seen by a nurse practitioner. When asking if she was heme positive with blood in her stool I was given this response by the nurse practitioner: "it looks to be negative but it wants to be positive". I was told to go on an elimination diet for a diagnosis that my daughter does have. Then it took 3 days for a prescription to get to the pharmacy. I leave voicemails for the nurses and office staff and am told… that I never left a voicemail. I am so disappointed with this doctor and staff I will ask my regular pediatrition to recommend a better gastroenterologist.

Dr Samuels is an amazing peds GI doc. She diagnosed my newborn with reflux, prescribed medication and our baby gained weight appropriately. Dr Samuels got the diagnosis correct and quickly and put us at ease with a very stressful situation. I highly recommend her as an extremely competent peds GI DOC

My daughter had been extremely sick and therefore she was really nervous on seing the doctor. She made my daugther feel good about herself, explained everything single thing she was going to do while examining her. She's really nice also to me as a parent, she was really caring. She's extremely patient. She is not only a great physician but also good human being, you can tell she likes children.