I typically never do this, but feel compelled in this situation. I'm reviewing the office, not the doctor as I never saw the doctor.
I'm an IVF mama and was looking for a new OB/GYN that was closer to our house for our second pregnancy. Given the importance of a good relationship with your doctor, I wanted to schedule an appointment to meet the doctor after I had a confirmed pregnancy (had even had an ultrasound and confirmed heart beat), but before my fertility specialist officially released me. I was quickly told this was not an option and there was no way for me to be seen until I was released and had all of my records sent to their office. After being released by my fertility specialist I called back and was informed the doctor would need to review my file and provide the receptionist approval for me to be accepted as a patient. I'm not sure what type of "screening" they do, but would imagine this is why some other women have been turned away (as I have read in other reviews). Was looking forward to seeing Dr. Webster based on her positive reviews, but was very surprised at the hassle of scheduling a simple initial visit.
On the day of my appointment, I called ahead to confirm my husband could join. While I did not speak to a receptionist, ALL of the recordings mentioned that each patient could bring one visitor with them. The message had actually been updated just a day or two prior as it previously mentioned that visitors were not allowed. When we arrived, my husband was immediately told he could not join me for any portion of the visit. While I am carrying the child, he is the father and deserves the right to be just as involved in the appointments as I am. We offered for him to wait in the hall until I was called back and explained that the recorded message states visitors are allowed, but were given zero consideration and he was made to leave.
Prior to this appointment I completed every new patient form that was listed online and brought them with me. After handing them over to the receptionist, she nonchalantly hands me another form to sign. The new form, that is not listed or mentioned anywhere online, is requiring my consent for the doctor to randomly drug test me anytime they feel it might be necessary. I'm sorry, but WHAT?!? When I questioned the need for this and explained that my previous doctor, who was also part of the THR network, did not require this consent, the only response I could get was that "it's required." This is a complete invasion of privacy. While I understand it is to protect both the mama and baby, I would have felt better signing a form saying they would do an initial drug screen with the first appointment. But to give consent to random screening at the doctor's discretion is far over reaching. This "requirement" should, at a minimum, be stated up front and included with the new patient paperwork online. If the office had been forthcoming about this, I would have cancelled my appointment or never scheduled in the first place.
Also, I just called my previous OB/GYN (again, also a THR provider) to schedule an appointment with her. The recorded message and the receptionist confirmed that one visitor is allowed at the appointments. Not sure why this office makes their own rules or makes it so difficult to be seen. I would definitely not recommend this office to other mamas. read more