Dr Slater is not friendly or sympathetic at all. Incompetent front desk workers with attitude. Definitely going to a different Dr.

Shocked at the lack of COVID-19 awareness. Staff, including Dr. do not wear masks or gloves. No requirement for patients to wear masks, no screening prior to appt and waiting room has no social distancing guidelines. My 89 year old mother has been quarantined since March and all that preparedness was thrown out the window the minute we entered 1580 Creekside Drive. Will not return. read more

Beware of being ripped off and frustrated. Dr. Robert Slater has a poor attitude and bad bedside manner (arrogant, uncompassionate, unpersonable). Even after I told him I am leery about being X-Rayed after we already know what I had and that I'm on the high-deductible plan, he promised he wasn't going to gouge me by going to the machine. The 1-minute X-Ray was billed at $325. (Never even saw a physical photo or a printout of my condition.) The visit itself was billed at $400. So that brief visit was billed at $725, of which I had to pay $280. Slater and El Dorado Orthopaedics are why we need an overhaul of our health care system. They represent everything I hate with doctors. Oh, I gave him a chance to explain himself, and the coward never called me directly. Shameful. Good for the other Yelper to leave a similar review. If you've been ripped off by this place, please share. They might know their stuff over there, but they don't know how to run an office. read more

Just had surgery on with Dr. Slater and felt i should write him a fair review. My experience was much the same as everyone else. Lets just say the guy is a little different. Doesn't talk a whole lot, doesn't like to explain much in depth about the surgery or alternative treatment options. Only time I've seen him smile is on his photo on his website, which seems creepy so I'm ok with him not smiling. However, the guy does know what hes doing. I think he assumes you understand your condition and you're in his office to have it corrected. He has an arrogant no bs, new york type attitude that you can either handle or you cant. If you want to be coddled this is definitely not the Dr. for you. If you just want your condition addressed and corrected he's very direct and professional. Just don't expect much (any) personality. Nurses and everyone said the same thing to me, the guys a little different but he's a very good surgeon. read more

My son had surgery performed by a Dr. out of network, and our primary care wanted us to see someone in network: Dr. Slater. He was condescending and dismissive to us both and offered little by way of expectations from a physical stand point for recovery nor did he offer any emotional support to this minor that suffered permanent damage to his hand. He did ask us to schedule another follow up appointment in three months. We did not return to this office or doctor. read more

I am a long-time patient of Dr. Slater. He has done multiple surgeries on my hands. But, I haven't seen him for over a decade until recently. I saw him for a pain in the knuckle of my left hand. During this same visit he took a "scan" of my left hand with an in-office machine. After leaving the appointment I realized I was not comfortable with his prognosis, and decided to seek a second opinion. The doctor I chose requested I bring all scans and x-rays with me. When I attempted to get the scan taken in Dr. Slater's office I was told it didn't photocopy well so they couldn't provide this image. Later, I contacted his office and asked this scan be released to me and was told "no, this is Dr. Slater's scan and it must stay with the file." I replied my insurance company paid for it and it was my property. Then things ramped up and the receptionist became very rude as I asked her why it was his property. She continued to parrot it was his property. Insane. I can no longer recommend Dr. Slater's care - I feel his medical and professional standards have definitely slipped. His office staff and practice in general display an unwarranted degree of entitlement. Go here at your own risk! read more

I saw Dr. Slater today for Wrist pain. The girls in the front office were very nice. Then came the Dr. WOW... Came in sat down and asked what the problem was. No introduction, didn't ask my name( I Introduced myself and my daughter). He examined my wrist and said we can do a cortisone shot and a brace. If no change in 30 days we can do surgery. He looked over at my daughter and said "Who's this?" (like she was invading his space) I introduced her again, he then turned away. I told him I was unsure If I wanted to do the shot and asked if there were any alternatives. He said "Leave it alone. So basically what I got out of the appt was.. The shot and a brace and surgery or nothing. I told him I would think about my next step and would call him. He said OK and walked out. No handshake, just up and left. Needless to say I won't be going back to see him.. EVER! read more

Dr. Slater: Stay away from this guy. He acts like he knows whats wrong with you before you step into the room. Apparently he is suppose to be the best hand surgeon in the area, but his superiority complex clouds his judgement. Appointment goes as follows: He walks into room no introduction. He than says whats the problem? I tell him my issues and he sighs and says follow me. He grabs my hand places it on an x-ray machine takes about 4 pictures says follow me. Back into the room we go and sets me up for a custom finger splint which costs $400.00. I could have used a paper clip and would have done the same thing. He never even looked at my other two fingers that I was having issues with as his superiority complex got in the way. I cancelled the follow up and bought a box of paper clips and tape. read more

DO not go to this office to see Dr. Slater. I was seen by Dr. Slater in November of last year to address two fractured bones. I had read previous Yelp! reviews regarding his demeanor and went in not expecting very much in terms of customer service. To my surprise, his office staff was very friendly, and the doctor himself was at least cordial -- though bear in mind, he is very cold and at times even condescending. I left after paying 550$ out of pocket for my services. Fast forward to January 2019, and I receive a bill in the mail for that same amount. I contacted Dr.Slater's billing services only to never receive a call back. After several attempts I was treated extremely rudely by someone named "Elaine" who spoke to me as if I was lying about paying upfront. I asked to speak with her manager and was told someone would call me back and then she hung up. I called Dr. Slater's office directly only to be told that they don't handle their own billing, and that there was nothing that they could do! I asked the receptionist if there wasn't a single person there who could confirm that a payment was made there at the reception desk that day, surely they keep a ledger of some kind? I asked to speak with an office manager and was informed that she was in her office with the door closed and could not be disturbed. Great! After an hour I receive a call back from the same receptionist, not the office manager, who said that she was able to confirm that I did pay that day, but I was still unable to speak to the office manager. Apparently she had come out of her office, but felt that the way a billing service hired through them treated their patients was out of her jurisdiction. I called the billing service back and spoke to "Monica" who claimed to be a manager, but was just as rude as the first person I spoke to. She told me "Well, obviously the issue has been resolved and every needs to put this behind them." She said how I was treated by their associate wasn't relevant to our phone call! She also mentioned to me, in a tone that suggested I was a con artist,that I was sent the bill in the first place because of a handwritten note in Dr.Slaters writing telling them that I was to be billed, therefore I couldn't have paid when I said I had. Mind you, all of this is AFTER producing an electronic statement from my checking account proving that I paid on the same day I was seen. I'm extremely disappointed that and will be actively discouraging anyone from being seen at this office ever again. read more

This review is for DR. Slater. I write this negative review reluctantly given that it is extremely hard to complete the requirements for orthopedics. Nevertheless, the overall experience with him was completely unsatisfactory. In addition had we followed his recommendations the outcome would have been worse. We went for a second opinion for a rotator cuff tear. We took the MRI and other pertinent information as requested by his office. Unfortunately, he did not discuss the MRI, or the diagnosis or various options available. Instead like a peddler he was pushing a steroid injection without explaining the benefits or consequences of the injection. He pushed for the injection three times, but offered no information. The visit was a waste of time and could have been harmful had we followed his advice. read more

I think Dr Slater is terrific. I saw him about 10 years ago for a problem with my left hand and recently for a problem with my right. I find him quite pleasant and yes, he is affable and has a good sense of humor. I can't conceivably reconcile my experience with some of the other comments here. As far as medical treatment everything has worked out just fine. read more

If you want a bubbly, sweet, funny doctor to repair an injury, go somewhere else. If you want to have a doc diagnose and treat a handis, see Dr. Slater. 8 days ago he repaired a severed nerve in my finger. My cast comes off tomorrow, but I can already sense some feeling coming back (which is supposed to take months). He's thorough, concise, and clearly great at his job. I would go back to him with any hand/arm injury. Anyone who is displeased with his bedside manor: he's not your bartender. He's not supposed to entertain you. You want a comedian to x-ray your arm? Try Old Sacramento. Looking for a good hand surgeon? See Dr. Slater. UPDATE: 3 months post surgery and I'm still happy with my care. He's the best there is. read more

PLEASE READ REVIEWS BEFORE! Dr SLATE IS VERY INCONSIDERATE AND DISRESPECTFUL. Just had a horrible experience here. My primary doctors office made the referral to see dr Robert Slate. I've been in pain and waiting for this appointment for over a week. I first got there and notice that some of the staff wasn't wearing a mask. This is August 17th and we are still in the middle of the pandemic! There were no signs about masks or social distance. I waited almost one hour after my appointment time to see this man in a small waiting room with more people around me. Then I went to see the men in his tiny office - dr Slate showed up without a mask. He set down in front of me within 2' apart. I didn't know what to say... I was in shock. I told him I wasn't feeling comfortable about him not wearing a mask. He went on trying to lecture me about all the wrong/negative things with mask wearing and how they are not effective. He even suggest me to take my mask off. I was so shocked... I even start shaking... o couldn't say anything else. I got up and left. I saw other doctors there without wearing mask. I found this place to be very unprofessional, this Dr showed me he doesn't care for his patients. read more

We have had such a great experience with Dr. Sfakianos. Not only is he a great surgeon but he is so caring, compassionate and personable. We felt a need to reach him on an early Sunday morning and called his exchange. They immediately transferred us to him and he was so nice and thorough. He made sure we had an appointment with him the next morning. Great office staff,Medical Assistant Lori and great physician. Thank you all! read more

This is maybe one of the worst experiences I've had with a Dr..so, he was so serious and a little rude just very unfriendly.then the cast he put on was so thin.Of course it cracked after two weeks.not to mention they would not communicate with my sons school as far as instruction I had to leave work every time I needed something and drive all the way over there... Even the secretary said that the doctor was horrible to deal with and could not ask him anything directly had to pass a note if I had a question. The only reason I got two stars was because the nurse was really friendly and so was the receptionist read more

Reading Apryle's review helped to ease my own feelings. I wish 0 was an option. If you are reading this, I urge you to not see this doctor. He should not be permitted to practice. I would not allow him to examine me, no less operate. My partner and I went to UCDavis, which is another 0 review for another day. She needed a consult for injuries to her thumb. We ended up seeing Robert Slater - though we actually had made an appt with another doctor (after waiting two hours). He did not even speak to her, and completely ignored me when I asked a question. He spoke to the student, explained nothing to us, was completely rude, cold, treated us as is we were wasting his time. He sent her for x-rays (did not even ask if she wanted x-rays) then came back in and said "You have three options: shots, splint, or surgery. Do you want the shot today?" I wish I was making this up or exaggerating, I am not. He did not even explain what each option meant, and when my partner said she really didn't think she wanted shots and how would they help, he actually found a colder, meaner, and angrier tone and said "so you want to schedule surgery today then" in a deeply sarcastic way. She pushed him to provide information, asked questions which he minimally and begrudgingly answered with an attitude of ...are we done yet. I could honestly not believe it. We both left angry and near tears. I have been in the medical field for over two decades and not only is this the worst treatment I have ever received, it is the worst I have ever heard of. We ended up seeing Dr Erin Forest in Sacramento at the Sacramento Hand Surgery Associates. Much better experience. She was knowledgeable, could communicate and get this...she was kind! read more

I felt the need to write a counterpoint after reading these two reviews. My experience at El Dorado Orthopedics with Dr. Slater was completely different. I went to see Dr. Slater in 2012, for a problem with my right hand that made it almost unusable. He diagnosed two issues in the hand and wrist. I found him to be very professional. He explained everything and answered all my questions. Surgery went very well. I have full recovery and my hand now feels great. I have nothing but good things to say about Dr. Slater. I think he must be one of the top hand surgeons in the Sacramento area. read more

What an horrible appointment that I had with him. Where is the manner and professionalism that a doctor should have for patient ? Please don't waste of your time and money on this office. read more

I had my surgery a year ago..wrist surgery..with Dr.Slater. I felt a little intimidated at the beginning but ? No question about it his very profesional..confident and good at his job. I felt comfortable 100% and I'm so greatful that I've chosen him..Thank you Dr.Slater and goodluck with your work. I'm feeling great and normal again. Your awsome read more

El Dorado Orthopedics and Dr. Slater turned out to be one of the worst experiences I have ever had with a doctor and clinic. I was warned ahead of time about how rude and cold Dr Slater could but even for warned I was till stunned at Dr Slater's "bed side manner" or in this case lack of. He was just so strange, bored, and uncaring as any doctor I have ever met. I have read other reviews that say he is very skilled so I will hang in there for now but what an unpleasant experience this has been. If you get referred to Dr Slater, find someone else!!! His office staff is not much better. read more

I have had the greatest experience with El Dorado ORTHO. I have seen both Dr. Sfakinos for my knee and Dr. Slater for my hand and wrist. Perhaps some folks my mistaken Dr. Slater's persona as someone of arrogant and insensitive. However I found a Doctor that is highly skilled, CONFIDENT and cares about you, your situation, and your comfort. For a whole year I was in constant Cronic pain. After listening to my concerns and viewing my x rays and finding from my nurse practioner, he tried PT for about 6 months with no results. After the wrist surgery I had improved movement and a great deal less pain. My second surgery was again necessary to prevent the nerve from further damage. Again this surgery went as Dr. Slater predicted. I thank god ever day for the skill and Confidence of Dr. Slater, Dr. Sfakinos and El Dorado ORTHO for giving me a Virtually pain free life. read more

So I actually did not get to use my appointment with El Dorado Orthopedics. But I wanted to write a review because the staff was so accommodating of my situation. My son broke his ankle/foot in 3 places and no orthopedics seemed to have any availability to see us. ED Orthopedics staff (Alicia) bent over backwards to work us in to the schedule ASAP. She followed up with update calls and an appointment. Even though we finally got in to our regular Orthopedic, I feel so grateful and appreciate the excellent customer service I received from Alicia and the other ED Ortho staff. read more

Saw Dr Slater for a broken bone in my hand. Very professional. Gave me options. Wonderful staff. Brittany was very nice even when I was a little stressed out. I would recommend this Dr. read more

As a busy professional, my time is valuable. I arrived on time for my scheduled appointment with El Dorado Orthopedics. I waited and waited. I asked when I would be seen. Each time I asked, I was assured I would be seen right away. That did not happen. So, after waiting for more than an hour, and knowing that I had an appointment with a client that I wanted to keep, I left. I will not return. I figure, why should I want to entrust my health to a medical practice that doesn't value providing a positive patient experience or consider customer service. read more

Went to Dr Slater for joint replacement in my hand. After carefully studying my Xrays and showing me even more on the fluoroscope he listened to my history and my reasons for wanting the surgery. He said he would not do, the injury was too old, and did not recommend the joint. He did offer a plan "B" but I didn't go for it. His attitude was great, he was simple in his explanation, spot-on with his evaluation. I highly recommend this outstanding doctor. read more

If you expect results, steer clear of this place! Dr. Slater is arrogant, useless and RUDE! He may give you a five minute x-ray while looking at you with weird faces like he's trying to harm you but that's about the extent of what you'll get out of him! Horrible and very disappointing experience! read more

I was sent to Dr. Slater several months ago by my Workmen's Comp doctor to review pain I was still. After very brief pleasantries, I listened to Dr. Slater sigh several times while reviewing my records. When he had finished, he turned to me with a bored tone and asked, "Why am I seeing you? I explained the pain I was having and handed him the MRI I had taken that morning. Dr. Slater disregarded the MRI, stating it needed to be reviewed. He gave me a quick x-ray then a cortisone shot. He then set me up for physical therapy. After I completed the physical therapy, I saw Dr. Slater again (his mood improved slightly) who asked me how it went. I informed him that my range of motion was better due to the exercise but, the pain was still there. Dr. Slater filled out some paper work, told me good luck and left. I felt Dr. Slater did not listen nor care. He just went through the motions. This happened back in July and it still irritates me when I think how I was treated by this doctor. read more

My daughter had a knee injury, Dr Wong prescribed a knee brace which was provided and fitted by his office. I just got the invoice, my insurance company was billed $786 - there was $437 discount, but still resulted in a charge to my family of $348.45. Most of the time you wouldn't bat an eye if all you are charged for a co-pay for these kinds of services, but I did some research and the same brace could have been purchased on Amazon for $125, and on braceshop.com for $87.99 - for the exact same brace. Can you say ridiculous? Is it insurance fraud? Just asking. Steer clear. read more

Dr. Slater is robotic, unemotional only sees in black and white. Months after my surgery by Dr. Slater my pain worsened and I am told nerves are unsettled and need to heal. Do not expect compassion from this man. No pride in workmanship hence the ugliest scar. Immediately after my surgery my RN was rattled, uneasy and not focused on me. The physical therapist are interested in statistics only. Dr. Slater does not advocate for his patient in work comp. Dr. Slater unfortunately comes off very arrogant. read more