I've been a patient for five years, the last two being routine visits with nurse practitioner Yenny…read moreSalim, who gives the world's fastest PAP have been satisfactory; I am giving 2 stars due to my overall experience with Dr. Ardalan, when I do have to see her, and an unpleasant experience with several staff members.
At 47, I sought help for clear perimenopausal symptoms that were affecting my quality of life. I felt my concerns were dismissed because I wasn't experiencing hot flashes or night sweats, and the idea of HRT treatment was not seriously considered. When discussing options to alleviate some symptoms due to the release of low-dose hormones, I was encouraged to get back on the Mirena IUD. When I raised concerns about the excruciating pain during prior insertions, I was told to take ibuprofen for the "mild discomfort." Despite advocating for appropriate pain management ie. gel or spray lidocaine supported by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and other current gynecologic guidelines, with new their recommendations on Pain Management for IUD insertions, other In-Office Gynecologic Procedures. As a female doctor, I thought she'd be supportive of this guidance; however, no meaningful options were offered.
Additionally, a "suggested" STI test was added to my well-woman exam and labeled as "standard," with no prior history or symptoms, nor my concent resulting in an unexpected bill. After multiple calls between the office and the lab, I was initially told I couldn't decline the test, which was never ordered in the past. Ultimately, my chart was updated to opt out, confirming it was indeed "optional" after all. The front desk representative, Stephanie, was rude, condescending, and unprofessional in handling the discrepancydue to having to call several times to address the issue before it was resolved. I've had unpleasant experiences with staff being rude on other occasions, and although they can be kind, that hasn't always been the case.
Overall, I left feeling unheard both medically and administratively. Patients deserve individualized, evidence-based care, informed consent for "suggested" testing, transparent billing, and appropriate pain management. I am now researching a new provider for better patient care.