Dr. Joel Press, MD

Dr. Press was insensitive and uncaring with regard to my post-spinal fusion pain. In my first visit, he simply brushed aside my pain story, gave me two simple exercises to do, and walked out in the middle of my questions on other exercises. He did say that the exercises he gave me were only a beginning, but when I returned for a second visit he was extremely impatient with my situation and claimed that he had discussed everything with me in the first visit, which was definitely NOT true. With the exception of learning the two simple exercises which may be of some help, my visits with Press have left me very angry, confused, and disappointed, and, worst of all, I'm still in unreasonable pain. (All of that at a cost of more than $300, since he does not take Medicare.)

Patients giving 1 star reviews - maybe you did not understand that this MD does not take any insurance so EVERYTHING is an out of pocket expense. He has been a physician at top hospitals and fair you researched you might know that HSS is extremely involved with research for he benefit of those in pain.

Saw Dr. Press today for a new pain two years post spinal fusion. He was gracious, straightforward, compassionate and diagnosed the problem even before the x-rays. Very highly experienced, intelligent and professional diagnostician. Can't recommend him more highly.

My experience with Joel Press was an extremely negative one. He is an extremely poor diagnostician and did not seem to care what my needs were, he did not take the time to understand my issue. The goal seemed to be he was more interested in patients for financial gains rather than their health. Highly disappointed and would never recommend to anyone.

He is hardly interested in me as a patient. More about raising funds. Nice guy but tough to call him a healing doctor

I had the extreme pleasure meeting in consultation with Dr. Press recently. I hold Dr. Press in very high regard. He is extremely knowledgeable, professional, caring and a perfect gentleman to boot. He demonstrated a genuine interest in my medical issues, and conservative in his treatment plan. I could not have been more pleased in meeting with Dr. Press. He is truly a credit to H.S.S. Thank you Dr. Press. STUART R. NADELSON

Dr. Joel Press is not doctor for anyone with an injury that can be taken care of outpatient. He is a researcher and manager, not meant to be a treating doctor. The visit is with his assistant 1st always. He will see the patent for 5 to 7 minutes. During the visit expect to be insulted, and not allowed to speak, anything you say dismissed and get shushed if you try to ask a question. Keep in mind you are seeing someone who is a manager and a researcher not someone to treat outpatient problems. You will get recommendations for extensive and expensive treatment to be done at specifically at RIC.

Have not been to a follow up yet, but looking forward to it. Great Doctor.

I had a not great experience with dr press. I waited over a month for my appointment. By the time I saw dr press my symptoms had decreased. After over a month of numbness and tingling in my leg and sciatica pain dr press was condescending and "scolded" me for using my insurance to see him for symptoms that had improved. I was originally diagnosed incorrectly took a second opinion and an actual MRI to get a correct diagnosis and proper treatment. Sometimes the "best" doctor is the exact opposite. My advice when it's your back or anything serious, get a second opinion.

I came to Dr. Press with chronic pain when it got really, really bad. I'm still seeing him today. We haven't been able to find a cure, but he hasn't given up. Next time I see him, he always has a new doctor for me, a new treatment or some type of test. The other doctors I've seen gave me a quick check-up, couldn't find what was wrong with me and they would send me away never to be seen again. This guy just keeps trying and trying. He's also hilarious and a great friend.