Dr. Petra Kuhfahl, MD

My husband & I both have Dr. Kuhfahl as our primary physician. We are very pleased with her. She caught the increase in my husband's PSA readings early, referred him to Dr. Simpson who is a urologist, and from there he saw an oncologist. He had has radiation treatments, and PSA readings have gone quickly down. All looks well. She has referred us to a dermatologist when it appeared that we needed skin spots checked. She orders a yearly mammogram for me, and we both have a physical every year. We never wait in the waiting room for long nor the examination room. St. Joseph Hospital owns the group that Dr. Kuhfahl belongs to. My perception is that appointments are short and scheduled back to back. Therefore, all the appointments become backed up if a patient goes over their allotted time. I can see where this could be stressful for any of the physicians in the group. And I am sure that all groups in Humboldt County have this problem.

Dr. Kuhfahl has a curt and dismissive manner. She did not discuss her diagnosis with me nor did she provide a clear course of care. When I asked for clarification she was rude and argumentative. I have never experienced an issue with a doctor before but most certainly did with Dr. Kuhfahl. She leaves the impression she is a very unhappy woman and dislikes her work.

From the time I was first assigned to Dr. Kufahl by the VA Clinic, I felt at ease and sensed I was with a doctor who actually cared about my condition. She spoke to me as were I intelligent enough to understand medical terminology, and every recommendation for treatment was spot on. I have yet to meet a doctor (other than my uncle) who is nicer, more professional, or more caring toward her patients.