I was evaluated for ongoing, debilitating knee pain that has significantly affected my mobility and daily functioning. Despite MRI findings that documented clinically significant relevant abnormalities, Dr. Hartman repeatedly described the imaging as "normal" and dismissed my concerns without providing a medically supported rationale. The consultation did not include adequate discussion or review of the imaging or imaging results, potential diagnoses, or an evidence-based treatment plan. When I expressed that I was experiencing 10/10 pain and asked how I was expected to function, Dr. Hartman responded, "Well, I come to work with 10/10. I guess it depends on the person." This comment felt extremely condescending and clinically inappropriate. At no point did he assess how the pain was affecting my ability to walk, work, sleep, or perform basic daily tasks. Instead, he referenced anecdotal stories about his brother and a prior patient, which were neither relevant nor helpful. Dr. Hartman attributed the pain solely to fibromyalgia despite the following issues: * The pain is highly localized to my knees rather than widespread. * It does not resemble my typical fibromyalgia pain. * The MRI report included findings that reasonably correlate with mechanical or structural knee pain. His refusal to acknowledge or meaningfully address these findings resulted in inadequate assessment and left me without a clear diagnosis or appropriate follow-up plan. The care provided did not meet clinical expectations and left me feeling dismissed, invalidated, and unsupported. I have filed a formal grievance with Blue Shield and Ventura Orthopedics. read more

After having x ray and MRI: Doctor Hartman told me I had lupus that I need to go see a rheumatologist. for 3 weeks I was not getting any sleep just thinking about this. I finally saw a remarkable DR that took his time examine me and ask questions. I do not have lupus. Never tell a patient what you think they may have without a DIAGNOSE. read more

I can echo what Yelpers have written: smart, knowledgeable, professional. I found him with an excellent bedside manner, listens, is warm and gentle, too. While your issue is serious, he's able to be find the positive with confidence in his craft to help you overcome. Best yet, the practice is well-managed, as I wait no more than 15 mins to see the Doc. January 1: coming down the stairs, I slipped and missed the last 3 steps, putting all my weight on one leg. I hyper-extended and twisted it, heard a snap, and fell to the ground. I wasn't able to put any weight on it, or straighten the leg out. Thankfully, we had crutches in the garage, and I was able to hobble around. I called several Orthos in the area, and they were booked or didn't specialize in knees. Two offices that I called recommended Dr. Hartman, so it was his office I called next. I was able to get in the next day, and sure enough, he diagnosed it serious and ordered an MRI, and it revealed that I had a complete ACL, MCL, and meniscus tear in a 3 page nasty report. We scheduled surgery. Surgery day came: we talked for a few mins, I was prepped by the nurse, met the Anesthesiologist, and was out in seconds. When I awoke, it was wrapped and done. I had some pain for a few days, but it wasn't too bad. Mostly I was uncomfortably resting at home. A week later, I saw Dr Hartman at my scheduled post-op follow-up. My major bandages were removed. He was pleased enough to order Physical Therapy already! I started a few days later when I could get in with my first appointment at my allowable insurance rehab place. 10 weeks later -- all is good. I still do PT, walk with a bit of a limp still, and have a small brace. I have to do a small follow-up surgery to remove some scar tissue, but I feel like I am in great hands. I'm thankful for Dr Hartman! read more

Dr Hartman treated me recently for a knee issue. He was extremely knowledgeable and professional. Dr Hartman performed an arthroscopic surgery and the results are fantastic. I couldn't give a higher recommendation!! read more

I injured my right shoulder several years ago, and it has been increasingly painful; furthermore, I was losing the ​functional use of my right arm. Several doctors over the years have encouraged having shoulder surgery, but I never felt confident in having the work done until I met Dr. Hartman. Dr. Hartman was recommended to me by two former patients who extolled his excellent surgical skills and excellent bedside manner. After meeting with Dr. Hartman, both my wife and I felt extremely confident in Dr. Hartman's ability to repair my shoulder. He took the time to clearly explain what he could do, the possibilities of having surgery concerning the repair of my shoulder, and the extent of rehabilitation. For anyone concerning orthopedic surgery, I would recommend Dr. Hartman and the staff at Ventura Orthopedics without question.​ read more

While visiting Dr. Hartman for unrelated reasons I mentioned some persistent muscular pains along my leg that had blocked me from continuing on my weekly Santa Monica Mountain hikes. After observing me walk and a quick exam of hip mobility he proposed that I have an X-ray of my hip right then. A few minutes later he showed me the results and the poor state of one of my hips (bone on bone). He made a quick and accurate diagnosis and proposed two courses of action. I promptly decided for immediate surgery. I was immensely impressed with Dr. Hartman's ability to listen and for his prompt, calm professional demeanor. Two weeks following my arthroplasty surgery I was able to walk unassisted and climb stairs. Furthermore, on the 17th day after my hip transplant, I walked (unaided of course!) 1.6 miles return from my home door, on the Oak Creek Canyon Trail, in the Conejo Valley Conservancy. I am indeed 'back in business'! Thank you Dr. Hartman! Domenico de Masi read more

Dr Hartman was recommended to me by two of my friends and believe me I was not disappointed....He greeted me with a smile and was very willing to listen to all that I had to say....I am scheduled for knee surgery in June 2018 and ready to get rid of this pain...so far I am am very happy with my experience with Dr Hartman..I am so looking forward to positive results like those written by others... read more

I went to Dr. Hartman at the facility in Simi Valley in 2012 for severe hand, wrist & thumb pain. This was affecting my work (involves lots of driving & computer work) and home life. He listened. He answered my many questions. He gave me alternatives, like using software that could save computer keystrokes. I wanted the most long-lasting good choices, so over 2013 I had two surgeries. He did a carpal tunnel release and carpometacarpal arthroplasty on each hand. It did involve PT, which I did at a separate facility. I have minimal scarring and It is now 4 years later and my hands, wrists and thumbs have been normal and without pain. I appreciate his thoughtfulness, respectfulness, and persistence to get me back to good health. read more

My experience with Dr. Hartman was very positive. I went to see him with serious pain in my left knee. I found him to be compassionate and responsive to my needs. He sent me for an MRI, which clarified the problem. He prescribed a painkiller and monitored my problem. The next time this flared up, Dr. Hartman suggested surgery to repair my torn meniscus and "clean up" the knee joint. The surgery was successful, recovery has progressed satisfactory, to include three weeks of physical therapy. I am pain free and walking normally again; I could not ask for or expect better results. read more

Really great surgeon. Very smart and thorough. Very talented. Did a fantastic job with my Labral hip repair with minimal scarring! He's top notch. Go here. read more

We found Dr. Hartman very straight forward not trying to get any unnecessary tests. He also didn't suggest procedures that would be a cure all but said the only the answer was in core strengthening with exercise (Physical Therapy) and cardio strengthening (endurance). We appreciated his sensible approach. read more

Most doctors in America are nothing but crooks and this doctor is no different. Its outrageous the amount of money they charge. I visited this doctor for an injury recently. There was nobody in the waiting area but I still had to wait a long time to see him. The nurse took an xray and yes i realize xray machines must be expensive. So anyways the doctor came in and just glanced at the xray and told me to get an MRI. For that he charged 300 dollars. I then came back to see him after getting my MRI and he had the MRI report and the MRI scans. All he did was read what was on the report which said that I had only minor injuries. He casually glanced at the MRI and just told me to get physical therapy. For glancing at the MRI and reading a piece of paper he charged 200 dollars. He told me to come back in a month. I figured he wanted to charge the insurance company even more money. For seeing me about 10 minutes he made about 500 dollars. How can anyone in their right mind justify that? I constantly hear about how much education doctors have to go through. So what, why should we have to pay for their education? I did go to physical therapy but thats a whole other story. Doctors in America are nothing but crooks. read more