Unfortunately, my experience with Dr. Stein has not been a pleasant one. I also worked in the…read morehealthcare industry and would like to have compassion for other healthcare workers, but this doctor is definitely not a people person. Due to both arms and my right elbow injury, his diagnosis was that it was due to my bone structure and genetic makeup. This was new to me since I had never heard that before. I am a larger guy, I don't use my hands and arms for strenuous work, healthy, and work out 3x/week with an experienced coach--nothing out of the ordinary.
Working with thousands of people in healthcare and other fields, we come across many different ailments, injuries, and stories. At first, I took it as new education and considered that perhaps my DNA structure and genetics were contributing to my injury and pain. I mentioned this to colleagues, other doctors at work, and experienced professionals, and they said they had never heard of this before. While not completely ruled out, it was unusual.
After receiving my MRIs and X-rays, I showed up for my appointment and waited close to 2 hours, which is excessive considering it was scheduled. When I was finally called in, Dr. Stein did not greet me and instead commented about having to skip his lunch break due to a busy day. I understand demanding schedules, but there was no acknowledgment that patients are also taking time out of their lives--missing work, managing responsibilities, and traveling to appointments. A simple courtesy call from staff would have gone a long way. I remained calm and open-minded.
I noticed another patient leaving unhappy. When I went in, I asked if he could check my other arm, as I had started experiencing soreness. He immediately dismissed it, saying nothing would show up and did not examine it. Within a week, that same arm developed increased pain and numbness, despite avoiding heavy use and refraining from working out.
I've met many professionals like Dr. Stein, and it was clear that his level of expertise contributes to an ego that comes across as dismissive. He appeared rushed and condescending during all visits. On my final visit, while discussing surgery scheduling, I asked additional questions to better understand the procedure. He said he only had limited time to answer. After waiting over 2 hours, I would expect at least 15 minutes of clear communication before a procedure that carries risks.
I understand his practice is a business, but business also requires trust, communication, and respect. Patients should feel confident in the person operating on them. Comments he made about preferring certain insurance because they paid more were unprofessional. Regardless, he will be receiving a large sum for surgery. While I believe he has the technical ability to perform surgery, I am not comfortable with someone who is rushed and potentially distracted. If appointments are rushed, I wouldn't want someone to rush through a surgical procedure just to get to another appointment or procedure. This leaves more room for error.
The reality is doctors cannot guarantee outcomes, but they are responsible for proper care, communication, and follow-up. Once you sign surgical paperwork, you waive many rights--even in cases of error. If there were stronger accountability systems now, I believe interactions like this would be different. And Dr Stein would treat his patients with more respect.
Also work with many clients who are also legal representatives, and although there are more legal avenues being put into place if something goes wrong, but I would prefer not to be in that position due to lack of accountability or care.
His staff seemed disengaged and under pressure. I've worked in environments where teams create a welcoming atmosphere--this did not feel like one. The way he spoke to his staff suggested stress and tension. It seems like a 50/50 chance of a smooth and full recovery without complications from him or his staff during follow-up.
After reading additional reviews, my experience seems consistent with others, which validated my instincts to seek another surgeon who felt more respectful.
*To previous and future patients: trust your observations and instincts. If Andrew Stein feels like the right fit, he may help you. If not, you have options. Sometimes going a little further for the right provider makes all the difference.
I appreciate everyone who has shared their honest experiences.
