Susan Michelle Short, NP

I have been a patient at this location for over 20 years, dating back to when it was run by Dr. Thomas and Dr. Nelon. Since WellMed took over, however, the quality of service and professionalism has declined significantly. My recent experience was so disappointing that I’ve already decided to find a new physician. I went in for basic blood work and was greeted by a receptionist named Siri, who insisted I pay a $25 co-pay despite the fact my insurance only requires $15. When I politely corrected her, she acknowledged her mistake but appeared annoyed that I knew my own coverage details. This isn’t the first negative interaction I’ve had with her—she seems overly sensitive and poorly suited to working with patients. I was called back to an exam room nearly 20 minutes before my scheduled appointment, even though I was still filling out paperwork for the new year. After I was placed in the room, I waited 45 minutes in a freezing cold environment before Nurse Practitioner Susan Michelle… Short finally came in. She didn’t apologize for the long delay; in fact, when I brought it up, she immediately became defensive, almost as though it was my fault for mentioning how long I had waited. She then stormed out of the room, and I could hear her discussing me with others in the hallway. When she returned, her demeanor was flippant, and she curtly asked why I was there. I explained I needed blood work and that I was concerned about my consistently high blood pressure. She brushed it off as simple “nervousness,” even though I’ve been dealing with high blood pressure for a while and previously requested a change in medication—something she refused to accommodate. Her attitude made it clear that my concerns were not being taken seriously, and she gave the impression she didn’t want to be bothered. I reiterated that I needed my blood drawn quickly so I could get on with my day. She left, and another staff member came in to take my blood. Though that nurse had trouble finding a vein, at least she was courteous and far more pleasant to deal with. This is not my first issue with Ms. Short; months ago, I needed surgery and had great difficulty getting her help with necessary paperwork. It’s disheartening to see how this practice has changed since Dr. Thomas and Dr. Nelon managed it. If you’re thinking about going here for primary care, I’d strongly recommend looking elsewhere. The transition to WellMed seems to have eroded the genuine care and professionalism that once existed, and if you look at their current ratings, it’s clear I’m not alone in feeling this way. My most recent visit was the final straw, and I have since found a new physician. In all my years, I have never been treated more poorly than I was here.