Dr. Minita Patel, MD

I rarely go to the doctor, and generally remember why after an appointment. Dr. Patel is different. She has a great bedside manner, and was thorough in her exam, and explanation of my condition and how it could be handled. I felt she cared and trust her completely.

I was referred to Dr. Patel by my primary gynecologist. My first contact with Dr. Patel was over the phone and I was a bit put off by her brusk communication style, but hoped that when I visited with her in person I'd have a more positive impression. Unfortunately that was not the case. Dr. Patel seemed impatient, the exam felt very cursory, and at no point did she make me feel as though she was interested in my concerns. I have consistently had great care through Kaiser, so I was very disappointed and asked for a referral to another doctor, as I didn't feel comfortable trusting her with my care.

I felt very invalidated and unheard in my conversation with Dr. Patel. We had a phone consult prior to a physical consult. I had already discussed my issues with my primary gynecologist, who confirmed my suspicions. I was referred to Dr. Patel, and Dr. Patel didn't seem to even know the reason for my referral. She was so busy concentrating on what she deemed to be the issue at hand, and then refused to discuss the issue that is my main concern, saying that it didn't sound like I had that specific issue at all. Keep in mind, my doctor already confirmed that I'm having that issue. I can't work with a doctor that doesn't listen to my concerns, and I cannot take time off of work to confront an issue that I'm not concerned with. I truly believe I was stereotyped by my young age, as my current situation is very uncommon for a woman in her 20s.

Dr. Patel is very straight forth, and knows what she is talking about! She spoke with me in terms I could understand, and gave me options I could try instead of rushing me to do a surgery. I did end up needing surgery, but I liked that she spent time explaining things I kept asking questions about. She also had her staff follow-up with me after surgery to see how I was doing. I liked her approach and her professionalism. I would suggest her to any woman that is having incontinence/prolapse issues.