Sonia Kaufmann

I am writing this review to document a pattern of interactions with my former PCP that left me feeling dismissed, pressured, and treated impersonally. Over multiple visits, I consistently felt that my concerns were not respected and that the care I received did not meet basic standards of patient-centered practice. Repeated pressure about vaccinations despite clear communication On several occasions, I asked the nurse not to discuss vaccines with me anymore, as we had already addressed the topic many times and I had declined. Despite this, every visit began with the same conversation, initiated by the nurse and then repeated by the doctor. This made me feel pressured and ignored, as though my medical history and personal decisions were not being respected. Unusual and impersonal communication through an exam-room intercom A recurring practice during my appointments involved the doctor calling into the exam room through an intercom phone instead of entering the room to speak with me… directly. I had to pick up the phone and answer questions before she would come in. I found this method extremely impersonal and unsettling. I am not sure whether this is standard or acceptable, but it contributed to the feeling that I was being treated more like an object than a patient. Very limited appointment time and inability to address multiple concerns Each appointment lasted only a few minutes. I was frequently told that I could not ask additional questions and would need to schedule another visit, even when the issues were related or urgent. This made it difficult to receive comprehensive care and created unnecessary delays. Barriers to referrals — even when not required I was repeatedly told that I needed a separate appointment for each referral, even for existing conditions or second opinions. On one occasion, I requested a second opinion from a specialist. The doctor insisted that I schedule an additional visit solely for that referral. To ensure accuracy, I contacted both my medical group and my health insurance company. They confirmed that for a second opinion on an existing condition, no additional PCP visit was required. This made it clear that the extra appointment was unnecessary and created avoidable obstacles to receiving timely care. Disruption of continuity of care I requested a referral to a specialist with whom I had a decades-long relationship. Instead, I was referred to a different specialist without explanation, disrupting continuity of care and disregarding my established medical history. Interpersonal conduct that felt cold, rushed, and dismissive Throughout my time as her patient, I felt that interactions were rushed, transactional, and lacking empathy. Despite arriving well-groomed, respectful, and prepared, I felt unwelcome and uncomfortable. The overall environment felt emotionally cold and disconnected. Overall My experience with this provider left me feeling unheard, pressured, and undervalued. I hope this feedback encourages improvement in communication, respect for patient autonomy, and more compassionate patient care. Patients deserve to be treated with dignity, listened to, and supported in their health decisions.