I've had mostly positive experiences here in the past--typically around 4 stars. However, one consistent issue has been long waits in a freezing room, wearing only a sheet, well past my appointment time. This included my most recent annual, where I was told we could do a biopsy, but the doctor arrived 40 minutes late and ultimately said she didn't have time. Unfortunately, the last three months have been truly frustrating. I had a small, persistent irritated spot below my clitoris, and my usual doctor referred me to Dr. Schreiber for biopsy/removal. While Dr. Schreiber was pleasant, she mistakenly removed tissue from the wrong area (labial skin). A simple "Can you confirm this is the correct spot?" before the procedure could have prevented this error. At the stitches removal appointment, she had the nerve to tell me I was wrong and that the spot I'm indicating was just irritation from the stitches below it. She agreed to remove it anyway, but didn't suggest sending it to the lab, even though I'm a recent stage 4 rectal cancer survivor. She was wrong, of course, because I felt more comfortable having just had a part of my body cut off and silver nitrate put on it than I did the entire 3 previous weeks. Over the course of multiple follow-ups and messages, my concerns were continually minimized or dismissed. I saw four different doctors: two brushed it off as inflammation, one worsened the issue by removing additional skin, and another prescribed estrogen cream only after I brought it up--and then ignored my biopsy request. Let's say they never resolved the issue, and I'm being treated by a dermatologist now who actually cares about helping. Adding to the frustration, I can never reach anyone on the phone except scheduling, and that's including the triage nurse. read more

Doctors are fantastic, informative, and willing to take time to answer all your questions. Although getting an appointment is the hardest thing even when the doctors recommendation has a time frame to come back. Only reason for the lack of stars is due to the front staff, I've never had a good experience with them. They are rude, have an attitude, roll their eyes, and expect you to read their mind when they need something. I tried to ask one questions about the payment, and they just plainly stated I should read what I signed better, when I was not asking a question about what I signed. read more

Well.... Hit or miss service here. It's an act of congress sometimes to get a human on the phone or a call back. You can only call during business hours.... More than likely have to leave a voicemail thennnnn get to play phone tag while you are at work. It's so much fun. Latest experience.... I am behind on a physical.... Currently do not have insurance and was hoping to get some soon, however, things fell thru. I finally got an appt at a local health dept.... Over a month out.... Hard to get an appt anywhere. Part of it is my fault but also sucks that this office cannnnnot call in 1 more month of birth control to hold me to my appt. Can we look at the big picture here??? I will never return to this place whether I get insurance or not. So now I will bleed on my only week of vacation.... I so wish that male dr could experience that!!!!! Do not recommend this place. read more

Waited an hour, saw front desk and they said "we're sorry but we didn't actually check you in and the doctor is busy with a patient so you'll need to continue to wait." Unacceptable. read more

Pretty great place to go if you're a single expecting mother. If you're married be prepared to pay for everyone else's experience. It's not income based, only based on if you're married/single. Despite giving them thousands of dollars out of pocket not one single time will somebody pick up a phone, go ahead and try.. no matter the importance you'll be placed on hold for 5 minutes or so just to have to leave a voicemail for them to call you back. The staff is as disappointing as the rest of the place aside from the ultrasound techs and two of the male MD, they were great. If my wife and I ever wound up expecting again we will be doing everything we can to find somewhere else to go. read more

I was transferring doctors from another state d/t relocating to the area and they would not take me without seeing medical records first and seeing that I wasn't a high risk patient. I needed in fairly quick and the process of getting all medical records and radiology sent over is not a quick one due to requesting, mailing, reviewing, etc. and I could not make an appointment until after they did all this. By the time all was received 6-7 weeks had went by and this was for prenatal care.. I find this absurd and disgusting. If you're transferring doctors, they don't make it a smooth transition at a already stressful point in your life. read more

After giving birth to my first born I knew I wanted a midwife. After doing some research and finding a midwife in my network I decided to check out this clinic. The staff was extremely nice, helpful and knowledgeable. I had a complicated pregnancy and at each appointment they made me feel comfortable and offered so much support. The ultra sound tech Joanie took it a step farther and prayed with my husband and I. I was so thankful for her prayer. My delivery was smooth and baby girl is healthy! Thanks to Cara Wolf! read more

As someone who has been a single mom with a nursing infant, I am shocked to learn that a patient would be turned away because their child is referred to as a visitor. Granted, this information was not received over the phone or in writing when making the appointment, only after arriving at the appointment with infant in hand. As a women's clinic I would expect more empathy for working mothers that are unable to find childcare during a pandemic. This is supposed to be a time of more empathy and understanding, not less. I really hope the clinic decides to reach out to this patient and make things right so they can get the care that they deserve. read more

When I arrived 15 minutes early to my first appointment, I was turned away because I brought my nursing infant with me. I'm a single parent and can't afford childcare help during the pandemic, and this arbitrary rule was not explained to me in writing or over the phone. The receptionist who turned me away was rude and defensive and wouldn't make an exception even though I'm vaccinated. I felt unseen and discriminated against, and I doubt I'll reschedule my appointment. read more

Short Version: We ended up spending two weeks in agony over a test result that could have been confirmed or disproven by a simple ultrasound. If you want efficient, clear, honest and reliable care, go elsewhere. If you have a normal, uncomplicated situation, they might be fine. Long Version: Everyone seemed nice enough in the beginning, however the staff communication turned out to be terrible, especially between the front desk and providers. I also had a complication that no one there seemed equipped to handle. I was sent off to Duke as soon as things got difficult. I disliked the constant rotating of staff and how I seemed to get a response from a different person every time I asked a question in the patient portal. The way they handled my complication was inefficient and occasionally insensitive. I would recommend going elsewhere for your care. I hate to write a bad review, but in this case it was warranted. I originally chose the clinic based off the reviews... so I wanted to warn folks. Your experience might vary greatly based on who you see. read more

I am SO sorry I ever made an appointment here. It once was an excellent clinic, but this last time it was a nightmare. Heres what happened 1) I said a wanted a simple Medicare check up 2) I saw Denise Olson. She was rude impersonal condescending and very rushed. Her attitude was "Don't bother me, you probably have cancer so get some tests" (I've come across several drs like this - they are negative & don't care about you. They are NOT interested in your life. The bully you into having tests)! 3) Although I had asked for a simple basic exam I was told that I still owed $500 AFTER MEDICARE & supplemental ins. & they lied, evaded & conned me for months to get it. It turns out their teeny bopper receptionist had entered the wrong code for my visit & they refused to admit it. 4) IMO They are $ hungry scammers, NOT healers read more

This is the most chaotic, unorganized, dysfunctional and incompetent medical facility I have ever been to. From not answering my call when I went into labor and not calling me back until three days later to the utter lack of empathy/compassion when going through a miscarriage to the inability to communicate in clear and consistent ways with patients and a whole host of other problems-RUN AWAY RUN FAR AWAY. I will never return not even under dire circumstances. read more

The five stars are entirely for Dr. Desai. She's the best OBGYN, period. Performed cervical polyp surgery on me like a total pro. Hangs out with me and listens to my lesbian drama like a friend. I trust her. I would recommend her to anyone. The rest of the practice leaves something to be desired. The front desk computers are so slow. Every time you check in or out, it seems to take three times longer than it should. The women who work there are hit or miss. Sometimes friendly, other times the opposite. Would not give them five stars. But Dr. Desai? Totally elevating the rest of this review. She's the best. read more

I had my first visit yesterday with Dr. Cavallini in the Brier Creek office and have nothing but amazing things to say about both him and the nurse who saw me. They were on time, kind, patient, thorough, prepared (had read my full chart and knew my history without me having to tell them) and all around made me SO grateful that I transferred my care here from another practice. My one star off is because I had a very bad experience with the front desk when I arrived. I have contacted the manager to address the issue (what I felt was rude, unwelcoming treatment including a disrespectful tone that I was spoken to in front of another patient) but by the end of the appointment, as I checked out, things had smoothed themselves out. She was professional and cordial with me moving forward and I initiated a follow up conversation because I don't like the thought of ongoing tension if I will be continuing with the practice. We both calmly explained our perspective on the interaction and I consider it resolved (although I am still waiting to hear back from the manager). Although it is unfortunate that it was my very first impression of the practice, I'm writing this to say that if you do happen to have a less than ideal experience with the front desk, it is worth pushing through for the excellent medical care. read more

I used to love this place.. then as a struggling woman trying to conceive I was so let down. I am not sure if they have changed staff, but recently I was given no help. I am so dissapointed in this group. I have truly been let down. I hope they figure some things out soon. read more

Probably the most welcoming experience I've ever had at a clinic. The staff was wonderful and so caring. My professional medical doctor Dr. Cavallini was so amazing and made me feel so comfortable during every-time I came in. Having a procedure done there my doctor and nurses were great and made me feel so comfortable. They are great and amazing people. read more

What CDC guidelines state a nursing mother of a 7 month old can not bring said baby to a doctor's appointment with her? What do you suggest a single mother with a nursing baby who can't afford childcare do when they need to see a doctor? Leave the baby in the car? read more

I have had a good experience with the PAs but, I stay away from Dr. Ritterhoff. If my only choice for treatment was between her and nothing, IMO nothing would be better. She is callous, huffs when you asked her questions and makes recommendations that seem to lack common sense. Dr. Frenduto has also made a few terrible recommendations. However, Dr. Ritterhoff made me feel like I was not even worth her consideration. read more

The BEST women's healthcare, hands down! Durham Women's Clinic staff and doctors provide the best women's health care around. The office has a warm and inviting feeling the moment you walk in. I am always greeted with a smile and checked in in a timely manner by the office staff at the front desk. The nurses are friendly and efficient and get me back to my doctor quickly. Cheryl Carrol takes ample time to discuss both my physical health and mental well being, both equally as important in my opinion. She has a soothing bedside manner that makes any discussion easy to have. I've also had to have other non-routine procedures done by some of the other physicians and was provided the same level of care by all of them. Some of these procedures were uncomfortable needless to say and they did everything they could to put me at ease. My 18 year old daughter is also cared for by DWC by Dr. Schreiber, another phenomenal physician. She made my daughter feel comfortable and relaxed during her initial visit, a visit which most girls dread. She also required a minor medical procedure that was not the easiest to have to deal with as a 17 year old. Dr. Schreiber made the entire process very comfortable for her from beginning to end. I can honestly say DWC provides top notch care by health service providers who genuinely display concern, as well as passion, for their patients' overall mental and physical well being. read more

I've been very happy with the care I've received so far in my pregnancy (6 months in). All of my questions (via online portal or through the nurse hotline) have been answered with appropriate speed, the payment plan was clear, the choice to have independent prenatal visits or Centering group (highly recommend Centering) visits is really helpful, and every provider (CNMs, nurses, and OBGYNs) I've worked with so far has been thoughtful, helpful, and listened to my questions. read more

Excellent care- really excellent. Love the midwives, ultrasound tech, and Centering. I feel very well taken care of physically.

This review is for Dr. Frank Frenduto, not the practice as a whole. I love both PAs at this clinic who have provided most of my care. I consulted with Dr. Frenduto about getting the permanent contraceptive implant Essure. His unsolicited family planning advice could not have been more arrogant, condescending, and paternalistic. First, he asked me (I was 41 with no kids) if I knew I *could* still get pregnant in a hopeful tone of voice. I was like, yeah, that's why I'm here for permanent birth control. Then he sighed, looked at a picture of his kids and asked me, "What do people without kids do with their time?" Yes, he really said that. Another bad experience with Frenduto: He was told by a staff member that his presence was not needed while I was having a transvaginal ultrasound (per my request), yet he burst into the room in the middle of the procedure without knocking or apologizing anyway. Finally, when it came to the actual medical advice I sorely needed, he failed miserably. I was considering a birth control implant with nickel in it., and I reported to him that I had a nickel allergy. He checked with the drug company rep, who said that it would be fine unless I had a "severe" allergy. Frenduto relayed this to me with a shrug of his shoulders, like, "It's up to you." He did not suggest that I see an allergist, which would have been a common sense precaution. The outcome wasn't good. read more

The midwifes and staff are so kind here. They have been taking excellent care of my baby and I.

Dr Ritterhoff's bedside manor and empathy is the worst from any doctor I've ever seen. She huffs a lot, gets agitated quickly, gets mad at you when you don't have the answer to every single question, and when she made me cry out of pure anger and frustration from her lack of compassion, she just blank face stared at me and didn't care. I LOVE Dr Schrieber and will always have her as my primary doctor but this is twice now that I've had to see Dr Ritterhoff on an urgent walk in basis and both times went horribly and left me feeling like I wasnt cared about as a patient. Next time if she's the only option, I'm just going to the ER instead. read more

I was distressed to learn that a dear friend of mine -- a solo parent of a 7-month old nursing infant -- was turned away from her first appointment by the receptionist due to "COVID restrictions on visitors." I was also disturbed to learn that the receptionist said "I don't make the rules" and didn't at least check in the back with medical staff to see if an exception could be made for a nursing infant barely half a year old. My friend sought out this clinic in particular because of its reputation for supportiveness toward queer clients. It is deeply disappointing that no warning was given in advance that a nursing infant would be considered a "visitor," and that no attempt at accommodation was made by the receptionist -- a really strikingly heteronormative and classist response to a low-income patient with many barriers to health care AND affordable child care. My friend was told that it will be a month until another appointment can be rescheduled. I sincerely hope that the clinic will do the right thing and reach out promptly to my friend with an apology and an IMMEDIATE reschedule at which she can be seen with her nursing infant. read more

Our family is complete with our 18yo and 14yo, so this review is about the gynecological side of the practice. I came across Durham Women's Clinic about 8 or 9 years ago via a friend's recommendation to see Dr. Frenduto. Except for the 3-year move to California, I've been a patient of his since. Finding the right OB-GYN is as difficult as finding the right hair stylist. I still remember Dr. Perske my OB-GYN when I lived in Hawaii in the 90s. All others have been judged /compared against him. No one has matched the expertise, bed-side manner or the sense of humor till Dr. Frenduto. Having gone through a few health challenges, Dr. Frenduto has been able to ease my concerns with his directness and compassion. The staff is always friendly. Their on-site phlebotomist is awesome. I hate needles and blood draws, but she gets it done with minimal anxiety to me. read more

Took my daughter to a birthing class to check out what they had to offer (she is signed up with another OB practice for prenatal care / delivery). The class was not cheap ($100), was a bit too long, and was a waste of time in my opinion. They seemed to design the class around those who are streamlined into the Durham Women's Clinic midwives and doctor network even though it claims it is also for those who are not. When asking specific birthing questions, the instructor often defaulted to "oh your midwife will take care of that," assuming that my daughter has a midwife (she does not) and again, assuming everyone is signed up for their practice. THREE HOURS of the class was spent going over tedious questions from everyone in the class (I was once a teacher, I know what this is...lack of instructional preparation). IMO, the instructor covered very little, pointed practical advice. The class went over time and the lunch break was also very delayed (hello? you're teaching pregnant ladies that need breaks!). In addition, for $100 per person they should really provide some cheap beverages and perhaps even some snacks or a light lunch instead of telling everyone to run to Chic-Fil-A down the road during the thirty minute lunch break of the class. Where is this money going to? Beyond the lengthy Q&A process, the rest of the time was used on literally reading out (lecture style) what was given out on paper. Spent a lot of time going over handouts that could just be reviewed at home and not a lot of hands-on demonstration of techniques, which probably would have been more helpful and better for retainment of the information. You'd probably have more expertise after watching a round of (free) youtube videos. What a waste! read more

Love love LOVE my experience with DWC! Michele Kessler (my #1!!), Joanie Chapman, Crystal, Sheilah, Sue Holliday, Dr Frenduto... AMAZING!! The expert care and compassion I receive from the staff is consistent. These folks have seen me through two pregnancies, countless visits, and are just wonderful to work with, bar none. I cannot recommend Durham Women's Clinic highly enough! read more

I had my first child 10 years ago with this practice and now I am currently having my (4th) last with them. They are a fantastic team of doctors, nurses and staff. On a different site I had rated 4 stars because at times I had a long wait. This was 10 years ago. They've since improved tremendously on that. I never wait long at all. One thing that has not changed is their service. After being with another practice and hospital (because of being in a different county) I am so thankful to be back in Durham with them. Great bedside manners, caring doctors and nurses. In my pain management, I've never felt uncomfortable with my choices as they work with you. That has been one of the "complaints" I have heard from others at different practices/hospitals. Delivering at Durham Regional was also a great plus. You can't beat the care you get there. I would highly recommend them. read more

OK so I have had the worst experience Ever in a clinic. For two missed appointments I accidentally had where one was me forgetting. 2nd was the font desk wrong mistake when they wrote down the wrong Date and time of my next appointment that Been said I called the clinic and had no one answer then I left them a few voicemails. Trying to confirm the appointment they had written out to me due to a phone call I received of a "missed appointment" so they said. The very next time I try to go in for the appointment I had they tell me that unfortunately they were not going to be able to see me and then I was going to be referred out with all that information side and explained to the manager of this place little do they care everything I was going through while being pregnant. And a situation my mother was also going through. They made sure I got the message that little they cared! This is just shows how awful they made me feel! and not sure how many more patients that like me never said anything till now. That I called to try to schedule an appointment and they tell me the same thing this is an extremely disappointment. Have never been so humiliated before. I wouldn't even rate them a one star! Sadly they just don't care. Oh and not to mention I was paying out of pocket so nothing was free here! I hope that the doctors realize what they team are making patients feel like. read more

I had high hopes for this clinic, as there aren't a lot of options in Durham, but the care I received here was the worst I have had anywhere. It started with taking my vitals and asking all of my health history in a small room with two other patients also giving their histories - no privacy (I could hear all of their intimate details, so I'm sure they heard mine), and my written forms were just left out on the table. They then asked further health questions of me while I was in the waiting room surrounded by people. Someone walked in and left the door open during my pelvic exam. I had an ultrasound and the tech told me I had a cyst on my ovary (which frightened me), and no one said anything to me about it for while I waited for an hour and a half to be seen. The doctor was callous, and when I asked her politely to explain her decision about my care, she said "It just does, I don't know how to explain it any simpler than that," and turned away from me to type on her computer. The medication prescribed was unavailable there or at any local pharmacy, and I ended up in the ER that evening from lack of treatment. I have since seen three doctors, all of whom agreed that the current literature doesn't support the rather extreme treatment she suggested and that I was right to cite the studies I did. All in all, the clinic doesn't seem to care about protecting patient information or privacy, and doctor was cold, rude, and not practicing medicine in keeping with best practices. All-in-all, it was one horrible visit, and in my opinion, it is worth going to Chapel Hill to visit the Planned Parenthood there or the wait time to see a doctor at Duke or UNC. Would NOT recommend. read more

I had a very good experience with the clinic in general and with Dr. Toby Ritterhoff. I needed an endometrial biopsy. She performed the procedure with the pippelle method, which is not as prone to cause pain. The subsequent DNC could not have gone smoother with Dr. Ritterhoff. She was professional and pleasant to deal with. I know other reviewers here had different experiences but mine went very well. read more

I attended the Birthing with Confidence class recently and I thought the midwife was informative, encouraging and had a great sense of humor (necessary in this setting!). The casual and relaxed atmosphere allowed for people to feel comfortable asking any question that came to mind. She provided education and reassurance to all of the new parents-to-be. The birth video shown at the end was so touching most everyone was tearing up at the end of it (pregnancy hormones were flowing!). What an inspiring and uplifting way to end the course. She empowered everyone as they went out the door with words of encouragement and praise. I went to a hospital birthing class when I was pregnant with my first child and did not get much out of it. This class was totally different. I also love that she offers you to come back for a "touch up" for a repeat of the class at no extra cost. She also offers a refund if you are unhappy with the teachings. I doubt that would happen but it is a nice gesture and speaks volumes of her commitment to her work. read more

I have been a patient at this office for about 5 or 6 years. I recently found out that one of the nurses for Dr. Olsen had the nerve to tell a mutual friend my personal business!! I dont know this nurse personally, I just know her from being a patient. I have recently decided to switch doctor offices all together because I do not feel comfortable going back (This nurse was always in the room with the doctor at my visits). After deciding to switch practices, I wanted to talk with Dr. Olsen about why I was leaving because I felt like it wasnt her fault. After explaining my situation and what happened with her nurse, she looked at me and said " I dont believe you". She also stated to me that this person has been her nurse for 15 years and would never do such a thing. Dr. Olsen then looked at my medical chart and said " everything is normal so theres no reason for (this nurse) to say those things". Regardless, thats not the point. True or not, my business was shared outside of this medical facility and as a patient I have never felt so violated and disrespected!! I felt that talking with my doctor she would be more understanding, but everyone that has some authority acted as though I wasnt being heard and they didnt have time to hear my problem (which is a HUGE problem). I want people out there to know this is a issue and to be very careful. read more

first of all, the care givers are excellent (5 stars). The way the clinic handles billing however, is at best a 1 star! I received a call yesterday (10/21/16) saying that due to an error in their billing system, I owe $15 from a visit on 3/2/15... 19 MONTHS ago! She stated that they *JUST* discovered this issue with mine and others' accounts due to a change in their software from 2014! This morning I logged into my account and saw that instead of having a $15 bill in my inbox, it's a $5 bill. How can a medical practice be THIS screwed up - it's clearly their error and not an insurance company's error (for a change)! read more

Durham Women's Clinic provides the best women's healthcare in the Triangle! I have seen all of the midwives and the majority of the OB/GYNs for my well-woman care for the last 10 years and have had two babies with the practice. My prenatal care was exceptional. The providers made an effort to get to know me and my family, truly listened to my questions and concerns, provided several resources for information and additional education, and offered me options, support and respect. Both of my deliveries (attended by the midwives who deliver at Duke Regional Hospital) were exactly as I hoped they would be and I wouldn't change a thing. I felt supported and empowered and the providers went above and beyond to meet my needs and wishes. The staff, from reception to billing to nurses, are friendly and supportive and will go out of their way to help with any issues that arise. I have always been able to get urgent appointments when needed, and they have an additional location in Brier Creek too. I highly recommend Durham Women's Clinic to all of my friends at any stage of life for high-quality, evidence-based care. read more