I was a patient at Advantia OB-GYN Shady Grove throughout my pregnancy and delivered my baby this…read morepast July. Unfortunately, my experience at this clinic was consistently negative and created unnecessary stress during what should have been an exciting time.
During my second appointment which was on a Friday at 3 p.m., I waited almost 50 minutes to see the doctor, who only spent a few minutes with me. When I went to get my blood drawn afterward, the lab technician told me they were closed -- even though it was only 3:55 p.m. and their hours are until 4 p.m. After I insisted that I needed the bloodwork done, she reluctantly agreed but was very rude about it.
At my next appointment, which was also on a Friday at 3 p.m., I needed bloodwork again. This time, I told the tech taking my vitals if I could have my blood drawn before seeing the doctor. She assured me it would be fine to do it after. Once my appointment ended around 3:55 p.m., I went to the lab, where the same technician and her colleague refused to take my blood and said I could go to the hospital tomorrow to get it done. My husband had to step in and remind them that we both took off work for this appointment before they finally agreed to do it.
Around my 25th week appointment, I mentioned to the covering doctor that I was experiencing pelvic pain and difficulty walking. Her response was, "It's only going to get worse, that's pregnancy." When I brought up that I had read about physical therapy, massage, or acupuncture helping, she agreed those were options but told me to "Google it" when I asked for recommendations. The lack of support and empathy was disappointing.
Later in my pregnancy, the practice announced they were moving deliveries from Shady Grove to Holy Cross Silver Spring. I looked up reviews for the Silver Spring hospital and also discussed it with my doula, who shared that she had really negative experiences there. I reached out to the clinic to ask if I could deliver at Holy Cross Germantown instead and was told that was acceptable so I registered at Germantown.
At my next appointment, I mentioned in passing to Dr. Prosper that I was registered at Germantown. She responded abruptly and told me I was "not allowed" to deliver there. When I explained my reasoning and mentioned that I had already paid for my doula, she was dismissive and unkind. That conversation was the final straw for me. I had already been uncomfortable with the practice but had to stay because I was so far along and couldn't find another provider.
I went on to deliver at Holy Cross Germantown, where I had a wonderful experience with my doula and the hospital staff.
Unfortunately, I experienced postpartum complications and scheduled a follow-up with Dr. Prosper. During that appointment, she told me she "couldn't help" and reminded me that I "chose to deliver somewhere else,". I ended up going to the ER for help.
About a week later, I received a call saying that Dr. Prosper had canceled my 6-week postpartum appointment because I delivered at Germantown. As a new mom still recovering from complications, this was extremely upsetting and unprofessional.
I then called the Silver Spring location, where I was met with empathy, professionalism, and understanding. They immediately scheduled me for my 6-week checkup and assured me that what happened was unacceptable. They also confirmed that they already had all my medical records, meaning Dr. Prosper's lied when she said she couldn't help me and she had no records of my delivery.
I would strongly caution anyone considering the Rockville location to think twice. No patient should have to experience the level of disrespect and lack of care that I did during such an important time.
