Ontario Lau, MD

I had an extremely distressing experience with this doctor. I visited the clinic due to swollen lymph nodes and other symptoms that raised concerns about lymphoma. Right from the beginning, the initial staff member who attended to me, we can call him Lurch (iykyk), displayed a complete lack of empathy, expressionless, moving slowly and exhibiting rude behavior. Despite my repeated attempts to communicate my hearing impairment and request clearer communication, he became agitated and refused to accommodate my needs. The “doctor”, who entered the room shortly after, had an animated demeanor and a strong accent. Initially, when I alerted him to my impairment, he took off his mask, which I appreciated as it allowed me to understand him better. However, this brief moment of relief was short-lived when he started speaking loudly within close proximity, unintentionally spitting on me. This was particularly distressing as I was already extremely anxious about the potential outcome and… implications of a lymphoma diagnosis. To my dismay, the doctor laughed, rolled his eyes, and made a dismissive comment, saying, "we all die." I was deeply hurt and overwhelmed by his insensitive response. Dealing with the fear of cancer and its impact is an incredibly serious matter, and it should never be trivialized or gaslit. Moreover, the doctor failed to address my other symptoms and did not inquire or examine any other swollen lymph nodes. Instead, he seemed determined to gaslight me and reassure me without conducting any tests. When I asked him about ruling out lymphoma, he mentioned a fine needle biopsy, which visibly brought some relief to me. However, when I pointed out that one of the swollen lymph nodes was located in the occipital area, he seemed unaware of the existence of occipital lymph nodes. Despite my insistence and the fact that it was easily palpable, he dismissed it, claiming that such lymph nodes are usually not detectable. This further contributed to my frustration and feelings of being gaslit. The doctor repeatedly pressed his fingers forcefully into the tender lymph node, causing me significant pain, yet he maintained that he couldn't feel anything. Eventually, because I was wincing and squirming in pain, he abruptly and spitefully gave up and stated that we would skip the biopsy and instead opt for a CT scan, as a way to retaliate against me….for being in pain. This was a breaking point for me, and I firmly asserted that I would not leave without a biopsy. At this stage, I started reaching out to the office through text messages, demanding immediate assistance to address the distressing situation. I was shaken and in tears throughout the ordeal. Subsequently, another staff member intervened and removed the doctor from the room. I later discovered that instead of discussing the situation with me first, they spoke to the doctor before the biopsy was performed. This sequence of events further added to my disappointment and frustration. In summary, I strongly advise against seeking treatment from this doctor. Their behavior and attitude were reprehensible, and they should not be responsible for the well-being of any living being.