Lokenani K Souza

The other staff was fine with me [but I was not informed or given an option of not seeing a doctor], and I was seen by Lokenani Souza. The only issue is that I felt that Ms. Souza behaved in an unprofessional, confrontational, condescending, and rude mannerism with me. In short, her bedside manner and treatment of the patient seemed adversarial and was unsettling, and I am not sure of her reasons. The best way for me to describe this experience was that she seemed like she did not like me, wanted to put me in my place, snippy, cutting me off when I am speaking. Basically, it seemed like she had some racial prejudice or other preconceived dislike of the patient, or perhaps she was just in a bad mood or having a bad day? I really can only speculate. I have also considered that it was the end of the day, and maybe they resented me coming in at that time? Regardless, having worked and studied for some years in the medical field I know that there is a certain level of professionalism that… needs to be achieved when dealing with patients, even when presented with adversity. And yet, I was completely kind and polite with everyone, including Ms. Souza. But for some reason, this professionalism was not being achieved (not close), even with a courteous patient, and I feel I would have probably gotten more professional care from a medical doctor--which I did not realize she was not. It is sad that there are some taking these kinds of liberties with patients, and using this medical setting to act out abusive and discriminatory behaviors. The detail of my visit is not so significant to this letter-I do not believe-as was the manner of service. I was simply returning to follow up after a previous visit, in which I saw a different doctor. In retrospect, Ms. Souza seemed to take offense or first behave confrontationally when I said that I was “wondering” if I needed an oral antibiotic in my initial explanation. Well, I am not trying to give my own prescription, but this was just my logical thought process, because the condition resolved and returned after I stopped using the topical antibiotic. I was there seeking-and was perfectly willing to accept-whatever medical professionals prescribe. It was just the tone and manner of the visit that was very disrespectful. I do not feel that I received acceptable care. Unprofessional conduct makes me think that I need to receive another opinion, because this provider seemed like she was on her own trajectory other that helping the patient. In my opinion, patients may not be getting an acceptable level of care because of the level of training and professionalism of staff-especially when they are not carefully supervised by fully trained doctors. This is just something I have noticed sometimes happening with PA’s and RN’s, and much more rarely with doctors. I am not sure how much they care, but I did let the facility know about my experience. So it will probably be a very long time before I want to go there again, but always make sure we are seeing a real Dr., if it is something important, and do not be afraid to ask for one. they are usually better trained to deal with people, and have more integrity for their reputation and careers.