I have been a patient of Family Medicine for more than 32 years. During that time, I received…read moreoutstanding care from Dr. Gonzalez Sr. and Dr. Rojero. They knew their patients, listened to concerns, and provided prompt, efficient service both in person and over the phone.
Unfortunately, the level of care and service I have experienced recently has declined significantly.
On multiple occasions, I have spent 15-20 minutes on hold after being told, "I will be right with you," only to continue waiting with no resolution. For a patient who is ill and seeking medical assistance, this is both frustrating and unacceptable.
More concerning is the quality of care I received during my most recent illness. I was seen by a nurse practitioner who was unfamiliar with my medical history and appeared to dismiss my concerns when I failed to improve after taking a Z-Pak and benzonatate. Throughout the years, I have repeatedly explained that benzonatate has never been effective for me. I am asthmatic and have a history of developing bronchitis and pneumonia, making respiratory illnesses particularly serious.
Eight days after my appointment, my condition had worsened considerably. My lungs became so congested that I struggled to breathe despite using my nebulizer. My coughing fits intensified, causing headaches, shortness of breath, and significant discomfort.
That day, I called the office three separate times seeking assistance and possibly stronger medication. Each call involved the same lengthy hold times, only to be told that someone would see whether the nurse practitioner would respond. No meaningful assistance was provided.
Out of frustration, I submitted refill requests through Walgreens for my cough syrup and the Z-Pak. The following day, I called again and was informed that the nurse practitioner recommended an over-the-counter cough medication. Frankly, I found that response unbelievable. If the prescribed treatment had already failed, and I had been seen only days earlier with worsening symptoms, recommending an over-the-counter medication seemed dismissive and completely disconnected from my condition. Not surprisingly, the refill requests submitted through Walgreens were denied.
At this point, I feel as though I do not matter, not even as a patient number. I should not have to repeatedly chase medical attention when I am clearly ill and struggling to breathe. Whether the practice is overwhelmed with patients or facing other challenges, the treatment and service I have received are unacceptable.
I pay for medical care and expect a reasonable level of responsiveness and attention. Even if the services were provided free of charge, patients deserve to be treated with dignity, concern, and professionalism. The care I have received during this illness has fallen far short of that standard.
I hope this feedback is taken seriously and used to improve both patient service and patient care moving forward.
Hilda
