Neil D. Herbsman, MD

I wanted to like Dr. Neil D. Herbsman based on his high ratings and his very friendly, chatty manner when I first arrived. He asked about my schooling, my career, where I grew up—all of which initially put me at ease. Unfortunately, that warmth vanished the moment the physical exam began. I was there to have an internal hemorrhoid checked, so I understood why a digital rectal exam was needed. But Dr. Herbsman gave no warning, no guidance, and no reassurance before, during, or after. The exam itself was rushed, indelicate, and physically uncomfortable. He made no effort to talk me through what he was doing or to minimize my discomfort. I say this as an acupuncturist who specializes in dry needling and trigger point acupuncture for chronic pain: I guide about 15 people a day, five days a week, through uncomfortable procedures. I know exactly how much difference a few words of preparation, a steady presence, and a calm explanation make when someone is in a vulnerable position. I… received none of that here. Then, without explaining what he'd felt or what would happen next, Dr. Herbsman hurried out of the room. The nurse told me I could get dressed, then followed him out—an active choice, not an oversight—leaving me completely alone. I was left waiting for an extended period with no idea why they'd both vanished or whether something was seriously wrong. No one checked on me. No one explained. That silence was unnerving, and I spent that time worried and confused. It's hard not to notice that the friendly conversation ended exactly when my body was involved. As a Black patient, I walked away feeling that the respect and care I received were conditional. I can't speak to his intent, but I'd strongly caution other Black patients to be aware of my experience.