Great doc! Excellent patient care. Very clear on what was the operation about and after care!

Rotator cuff repair was a total success. Dr Purchase is very personable and relatable. I would only go back to him if I needed more surgery in my shoulder. read more

I saw this MD at St Francis.My direct experience with him is that he was quick to anger and did a very poor assessment of my issue. I spoke with his supervisor who confirmed that the physician demonstrated a pattern of verbal abuse specifically toward nurses working under him. read more

When our son tore his ACL in a football game, we researched and met with several orthopedic surgeons. Dr Purchase impressed us with his track record of results and updated research into ACL graft techniques. He also had great rapport with our son, trading experiences from his own football background. The surgery and post-op checkins over the next 9 months went well. Our son's repaired knee is just as strong as his other knee, with full range of motion and no pain. He is back to all sports and training, and very grateful to Dr Purchase. read more

Upon visiting Dr. Purchase for a meniscus tear, he suddenly began raising his voice and snapping at me. Upon bringing his hostile demeanor to his attention, he falsely claimed that I was not answering his questions. Maybe my responses were not what he wanted to hear, but every question he asked me was answered. He ended up not looking at my injury or providing any type of medical care. I have been in pain for awhile now but will be going to another doctor for my injury. read more

While I like Dr Purchase and value his skill as a physician, his billing team is awful. The company he uses for payment, Medical Billing Services, sent me a bill with a notice that you can call to pay or ask any questions about your bill at (650) 490-4319. Except you can't. Sure, you can call that number, so that part is true. But it will always go into voice mail and they (Cassie) will never call you back. I've tried many times over many days and never got a pick up or a call back despite leaving the requested info. Oh, but they were kind enough to send me a letter threatening to send the bill to Collections. Despite the fact that my insurance company claims the bill in question is an over charge. So unless Dr Purchase can get his billing team to care about his patients even half as much as he seems to, there's no way I would return. read more

Here's why he's awesome: 1. I knew exactly what was going on at all times, he took all the time necessary to explain it to me in laymen terms. 2. He didn't push for surgery as first and only resort. We tried everything else first and it was me who asked for surgery in the end. 3. It was my first surgery and I was freaked out (cutting open, going under etc). His surgery staff was exceptional every step of the way. 4. MOST IMPORTANT - it's been 1.5 months since my operation and I'm at 100%. Doc knows his stuff. 5. He's just an awesome guy to deal with when you're going through something not that fun. Thank you Dr. Purchase! read more

I had biceps tendinitis for over a year, plus a shoulder that had given me painful impingements for many years. Dr. Purchase recommended cutting the tendon of the long bicep for the tendinitis, and a Mumford procedure for the arthritis on my collar bone that was implicated in the impingements. He did a terrific job. The pain from the tendinitis was almost instantly gone. After 3 mos. almost all my range of motion is back - much better than it's been for years. Plus he is kind, personable, very responsive and helpful. Everyone in his office made me feel at home. I highly recommend him. read more

I was referred to Dr. Purchase by my PCP, Leah Tessler. Dr. Purchase was very thorough in diagnosing why my arm kept swelling where I'd had a plate placed after I broke it. Instead of just charging ahead and operating, he conscientiously performed diagnostics to determine if there were any other underlying problems. Thank goodness, there wasn't. So, he surgically removed my hardware. He even performed a cosmetic closure that I requested because the previous scar was so unsightly. In general, his office staff was very friendly and helpful. I did not experience any long wait, which was very surprising. And Dr. Purchase is just a very friendly, down to earth doctor with great bedside manner and terrific clinical skills. I highly recommend him. read more

Praise the Lord for Dr. Purchase! I'm lucky to have encountered him during my trials of pain and suffering. If it weren't for him, there's no way I'd have a shot at doing the things I love. I am a very active individual that enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, surfing, climbing, and cycling. A few years back, I dislocated my shoulder wakeboarding. After attempting PT, I was still having reoccurring dislocations. This led to me seeing my hometown doctor (in Houston) to schedule my 'first' surgery. He was highly practiced. He'd been in the field for over 25 years. He was the go-to Orthopedic surgeon for many of the professional athletes in town. Needless to say, his practice was like a factory. He'd performed hundreds of the same surgery I was to be getting. I figured this was a good thing... The surgery went fine and I proceeded to PT. Around 6 months later I was cleared to get back into my sports. Around 8 months later, disaster came again. I dislocated it devastatingly, tearing the labrum and also chipping off a large piece of bone from the cup of the socket, among other damaging. I knew when it happened that my shoulder was in bad shape and hoped that a second surgery could salvage it. I found Dr. Purchase on Yelp initially. I was searching for a orthopedic surgeon with good reviews, and plentiful knowledge on shoulders (since I knew my shoulder was now a mess). Though the most important thing I was looking for was a doctor willing to spend more time with me -- a more personal doctor. God willing, Dr. Purchase is who I found. I knew he was the one when I first met him. During the examination, I could tell he was knowledgable (mainly by his finesse). He took his time explaining to me what the damage was and options on trying to fix it. He drew out diagrams, and answered any questions I had. I never felt rushed, and this was a great new feeling. I was scheduled for a Bony Bankart Repair and Remplissage. We thought my shoulder would require an open surgery to rebuild the bone. But based on the CT Scan he said he was able to find the hunk of bone and bring it back up arthroscopically. The surgery went splendidly. The night of the surgery, Dr. Purchase gave me a call to see how I was doing (this was a first from any previous doctor). It was a nice gesture. He said that it looked pretty ugly when he went in there, but it went well. My sophisticated repair was such a success that he asked my permission if he could use it as the 'case of the week'. My answer was yes of course. I told him, "even though it is numbed up, I can tell you fixed it. Everything feels like it is in the right place." He was amused, but said that he'd heard that before, and it's a good sign. I'm over a month out of surgery, and I still stand by what I told him the night of the surgery. Everything feels like it is in the right place. Dr. Purchase is a true healer, and I am forever grateful to have crossed paths with him in my life. read more

As you can see from my other Yelp reviews I've had a few bumps and bruises over the years. In March I injured my shoulder and knee in a bad fall on some stairs. After a long month of waiting for insurance approvals and MRI's I finally received the approval to see Dr. Purchase. I called his office and his staff (Jennifer) was most helpful in getting me in that week. From past injuries I am accustomed to the doctor spending a hurried few minutes with me and then quickly suggesting surgery as the first option-- while most of my time is spent in the waiting room. It is for this reason I write a list of questions in preparation for the few sacred minutes I have with the doctor. No such exercise is necessary with Dr Purchase, he gave me his full attention and time. Smart, efficient, pleasant and patient with patients, Dr. Purchase explained the nature of my injury, what I would need to do to get things back on track and that surgery should not be considered at this point. He then gave me two well-placed shots of cortisone and sent me on my way - within a week after, following physical therapy and his instructions I was feeling near full mobility in my shoulder and 80 percent less pain in both shoulder and knee . I must say, I especially like the fact that he explained the problem, detailed the potential therapies and answered every question. If you need an ortho, this is the place to go. His medical assistant John and the front office were friendly and efficient, too. The only drawback: It's difficult to get good cell phone reception in the building. read more

Very happy with my experience with Doctor Purchase! After I hurt my shoulder skiing I cross-referenced the best shoulder / rotator cuff specialists in San Francisco per Yelp with my health coverage, and converged on Dr. Purchase. I initially thought that I had a torn rotator cuff, but Dr. Purchase diagnosed me as simply having a very bad bruise. His consultative approach was really welcome, and his level of communication was such that I always knew what was going on. I would wholeheartedly recommend him to a friend or colleague. Relatedly, the office staff are extremely helpful and friendly. Very diligent as well. read more

I went to Dr. Purchase to correct a knee/leg problem that I had since childhood. It ultimately required major knee surgery. Dr. Purchase and his whole staff were fantastic. They kept me completely informed regarding my options and my diagnosis. The surgery went great and I was up and walking unassisted with a couple of weeks of the surgery. It's now just two-months after the surgery and I am able to be more active now that I have in over a decade. What impressed me the most, was Dr. Purchase and his staff's responsiveness both before and after surgery. They were truly fantastic. read more

Dr. Purchase is the real deal, and his staff are knowledgable and caring. Going in for my first big surgery, I was really nervous, but Dr. Purchase helped me address any outrageous concerns I had, and guided and encouraged me through my recovery process. I am forever grateful for being referred to this office in a last attempt before a holiday weekend to be seen after an accident. He's the most down to earth doctor I've ever had, and 5 months later, my clavicle scar is barely noticeable. I would definitely recommend Dr. Purchase if you want best experience in knee or shoulder recovery, and actually want to look forward to seeing a doctor. read more

Dr purchase is awesome (5 stars) but beware- Dignity Health is a scam (0 stars). I was shocked when I was charged $2000+ for just a couple of knee X-rays. Also, they are extremely unorganized, it took me 30 minutes just to "check-in" so I was late for my actual appointment. There is no "dignity" in this place, go somewhere else. read more

Dr. Purchase and his staff are awesome. He's really smart, really funny, and takes the time to listen to you and explain everything. I horribly wrecked my right arm & shoulder after being slammed by a heavy shore break in Hawaii. Dr. Purchase was able to piece my broken humerus, shattered joint and misaligned tendons back together with 2 surgeries in Jan and Apr 2013. 2 years later my arm is completely normal as if the accident never happened. I will definitely go back to him for any other joints I wreck in the future. Side note: I don't why, but for some reason he reminds me of Paul Rudd. read more

I have never been treated so rudely from a doctor in my entire life. i waited several months to write this review, hoping I would feel less angry and hurt. I would never recommend Dr. Purchase and warn any one considering seeing him, BEWARE of anger and rude behavior. read more

1) Billing staff could not provide a quote but sent me to insurance, giving me the run around. 2) Multiple calls to staff to get medicine and followup items resolved 3) Had to have sutures in for two additional weeks as Dr on vacation 4) Procedure results not as good as expected 5) Poorly explained procedure and explained it at overly technical level 6) Everytime I went in I got different answers to same questions. 7) Will not use him again 8) I had a torn rotator cuff which he did not address during the surgery. I have since had to have a second surgery with additional risk with anesthisia and additional recovery time and down time from employment. read more

I want to give a big shout out to the Saint Francis Orthopedic Institute, and the team at Purchase Clinic. It is a super group of knowledgeable, friendly folks, who will advocate for you. The surgical team is awesome, compassionately helped me with some post surgery concerns. I was well prepared by a team of dedicated medical professionals [especially Raha]! read more

Dr Purchase is a doctor of the past....the doctor our parents and grandparents had whom they never questioned. He is young, inexperienced, lacking any bedside manner, and terribly rude. He hastily prescribes and when called on it (because it was an error), shrugs his shoulders. Clearly, he has limited knowledge and a complete inability to have a conversation about what is ailing his patient. As patients, he expects us to take his word as the gospel. In reality, options should be discussed and patient concerns shouldn't simply be dismissed. There are a lot of very experienced, knowledgeable orthopedic surgeons in San Francisco. Anyone would better serve you than Dr. Purchase. read more

Don't like to write negative reviews about physicians because they are ' practicing ' medicine , it's not perfect yet. However Dr. Purchase told me I needed invasive surgery or I would never walk normally let alone run. When I said I wanted a second opinion he got visibly angry. A warning sign: when I called to find out the results of my CT scan the office said they could only tell me over the phone ( without coming in for an office visit ) for $50- and they said that cost was not covered by insurance. In the end I went to Stanford did not have surgery and have resumed running in races. Before you undergo potentially life changing and definitely expensive surgery. I suggest a second opinion. read more

I was referred to Dr.Purchase through Workman's Comp for a partially torn tendon in the common extensor tendon in my elbow. I waited 6 weeks for an appointment (not his fault) because I was a new patient and it required a 30 min appointment compared to his usual 15 min appointments. I was told by the office staff to arrive 30 mins early to fill out paperwork. I arrived 45 mins early to be safe and was not seen till 30 mins after my appointment time. When Dr. Purchase finally came in he could not open the MRI disc that I brought. After trying it on another computer he came back in and told me that he told Workman's Comp would not approve any other type of therapy if I didn't try a Cortisone Shot and more physical therapy. I had already had 6 sessions before seeing him. I expressed that I would prefer not to get the shot because I had read about them and did not think it would help my particular injury. He gave me a look like you are wasting my time and said it was up to me, but I would not get approved for any other treatment if I did not get the shot. Feeling desperate I said ok and he gave me the shot. He told me to come back in 6 weeks and to go to physical therapy. Over the next week my elbow hurt worse than before the shot. I gave it another week to see how it felt and it did not feel better so I called to make another appointment. I saw Dr. Purchase again. The first thing he said to me was it has only been 3 weeks, why are you back. I explained that I was in a lot of pain and asked him what my options were. He said workman's comp would not approve anything unless I tried a second cortisone shot. He said I would have to wait for that though. He had a person in the room that he was dictating to. He asked me to do a series of movements with my arm and he began saying numbers to his assistant. After the series of movements he looked at me and said, I am not saying the you are lying about your pain, but I can't figure out what your problem is. THEN he said, I am a shoulder specialist and you have an elbow problem, so I recommend you go to an elbow specialist. He told me to make another appointment for 6 weeks in case I couldn't find another doctor in that time. While I was making the appointment with the front office staff, I heard him talking about me in a negative way to his assistant. Here are my problems: -If he knew he couldn't help me on my first visit then why give me a cortisone shot. -How did he know what workman's comp would authorize if he didn't ask. -LEARN some bedside manner! The next doctor I saw (the elbow specialist) said I needed surgery to fix it and I have since had the surgery and am on the road to recovery. read more

In November 2012, I suffered a horrible bicondylar tibial plateau fracture of my right leg (it basically shattered into pieces from landing wrong on a trampoline at the House of Air) and was taken to the emergency room of CPMC's Pacific Campus where I was lucky enough to get Dr. Purchase as my surgeon. He was the perfect surgeon for me - calm, funny, extremely smart, straight forward - and he explained everything to me in a way that I could understand without talking down to me. I always felt like I was his number one priority although I knew he was balancing so many other patients. He came into the hospital in the middle of the night when I was hysterical because the nurses couldn't get my pain managed and he fixed it. During my recovery, I had a direct line to him in off hours and he took a call at home during the evening when I was worried about a reaction I was having and saw me the next day to make sure I was okay. He never made me feel like I was a burden for doing those things and I always felt his genuine, sincere concern for my wellbeing. The recovery was very long and very difficult because it was a tremendously bad break in the largest weight bearing joint of the body. But because of the brilliant work he did in putting my knee back together again with two plates and ten screws, I am walking around pain free and I am back at the gym on the spin bike and doing weight training. I've even been out dancing! I can't say enough great things about him and would send all of my loved ones to him IMMEDIATELY if they needed an orthopedic surgeon. I think the greatest thing about my interactions with him is that I felt like I formed a friendship with him throughout the experience and I just genuinely love him as a person. He receives my highest recommendation. read more

Not only did Dr. Purchase do a wonderful job with my knee, but he did it in a wonderful way. He explained things clearly and didn't do the "I'm a doctor begrudgingly tellingly you what little bit I think you ought to know" thing. His manner was professional but more casual than the average doctor. He even said, "I don't know" once. In addition, he clearly took a personal interest in my situation. For various logistical reasons, we couldn't meet until more than a week after my MRI. So he took the time to 1) call me 2) on a Saturday to give me a heads up about what was going on before our appointment the next Thursday. I didn't think doctors did that in the 21st century. Ever. Big thumbs-up. read more

I broke my leg last December and, looking back on it, was really traumatized and depressed. Dr. Purchase's humor and candor were so refreshing. And encouraging. His competence is apparent and that put me at ease immediately. And the fact that surgery was NOT his first suggestion was a welcome relief. It's been 6 months now and I can't thank him enough for getting me to where I am now. I'm doing almost all pre-accident activities again and feeling great. I especially appreciate the fact that Dr. Purchase took the time to understand who I am and to encourage me to do what comes naturally for me.... to push myself and to use my body again. I always felt that I received plenty of attention, respect and information. The staff was just as competent and kind. A great experience if you really insist on breaking a leg! read more

After a Vespa accident left me with a fractured clavicle in the ER, I went to Dr. Purchase for my follow up. He was extremely warm and good-humored about the fall and even shared his past accident-prone experiences. His staff was great and getting in and scheduling follow up appointments have been very easy. He really made a bad accident bearable. read more

Dr. Purchase is the best. I've seen him for two different things and he was awesome for both. He's brilliant and has a very effective bedside manner. He explains things in laymen's terms. He doesn't push for surgery even though he's a surgeon. I recommend him in a second! read more

Still awaiting knee replacement surgery, I want to express my appreciation to Dr. Purchase and Jessica To, his crackerjack surgical coordinator. Although I have had osteoarthritic bone-on-bone condition for about 20 years, when I first saw Dr. Purchase a year ago, he did not "push" surgery, especially as in my case, there has been no serious pain, only weakness and instability. He gave me cortisone shots that I didn't feel - recommended a second career to him as IV nurse - and words of encouragement. Cortisone, which a long ago worked for a long time, doesn't do much good now. (I have had Synvisc and other treatments, the most effective of which was Rolfing.) As the knee problem continued to worsen, I returned to Dr. Purchase in December, and accepted his recommendation of total knee arthroplasty at the beginning of next month. At this point, Jessica took over and dazzled with her thorough knowledge of every aspect of what I was getting ready for, speedy responses to questions, and all the support one would need. Spending the few remaining days before the procedure with "standing tennis" (letting my partner lose weight by covering the whole court), I am understandably apprehensive about the surgery and, even more, the initial period of rehab, but at least I feel confident that I am in good hands. Good luck to us, everyone!...:) read more

Dr. Purchase is awesome. I came in today to see him for a knee issue. He was friendly, thorough and very science/data driven. I respect his approach and really appreciate the time and care he took with the exam. I've seen other doctors for similar issues, and there just wasn't the level of care and thoroughness that Dr. Purchase had. Would recommend him to anyone with sports medicine issues. read more

Dr. Purchase is really excellent surgeon and consultant for my family. He is caring my family with heart-felt kindness and specialty. Whenever I ask about medical things, he gives good direction and answers. read more

Going in for my first ever surgery, needless to say, I was a little nervous. Dr Purchase and his staff were thorough, caring, and did an exemplary job of explaining expectations for recovery and the surgical process. Most importantly, after the surgery, it felt like there was someone in "your corner" to answer questions and guide you through every step of the way. While I may not recommend having to get shoulder surgery, I would absolutely recommend seeing Dr Purchase and his crew. read more

Kudos to Dr. Purchase! I work with surgeons on an almost daily basis at another hospital, and have worked with doctors for several years. However, I chose Dr. Purchase for my shoulder surgery. He is great!! He has the combination of shoulder expertise (just Google "Robert Purchase Remplissage," for example) and excellent bedside manner. I wish Dr. Purchase could've performed my first shoulder surgery. I seriously doubt I would have needed another surgery. In any case, prior to my surgery, he prescribed, and his staff called in my postop (after-surgery) meds to my pharmacy. I picked them up a couple days before surgery. Also a few days before surgery, the surgery center where I was originally scheduled to have the procedure contacted Dr. Purchase's assistant, Rebecca, regarding a potential issue with my insurance and resolution to the issue. She promptly communicated this info to me and asked if I agreed with the resolution -- re-scheduling my surgery at CPMC instead because of less out-of-pocket costs with my (goofy!) insurance. Within a couple hours, done. When I was in the recovery room, Dr. Purchase spoke with the family member who accompanied me. Dr. Purchase took him to a private room and described the procedure and showed him pictures of it (arthroscopic). Dr. Purchase called me a few hours after my surgery, then followed up with an email. Many thanks to him, to his staff at Dr. Lesley Anderson's office, and to CPMC for the great care :) read more

Dr Purchase accurately diagnosed my shoulder pain... A mystery that had been bothering me for over a year. That alone was wonderful because it put my fears to rest and gave me hope for improvement. He prescribed physical therapy and followed up with a quick and very effective in-office treatment. Now my range of motion is back to 100% with no pain. I am very grateful for his help and his good humor throughout! I highly recommend him for your shoulder or knee problems!. read more

I was referred to Dr Purchase after a catastrophic knee dislocation suffered while skiing at Heavenly -- caught an edge in the trees and hit a tree. I was lucky to be wearing a helmet. And even luckier to have him on my team. His approach is equal measures methodical and personal. He's an empathetic, intuitive perfectionist who most certainly knows his stuff. He pushed me when I needed it and talked me down when things got frustrating. Or scary. I'd recommend him to anyone I know. With utmost enthusiasm. read more

After months of enduring ever increasing knee pain, my primary physician referred me to Dr. Purchase's office to have things checked out. What impressed me the most about Dr. Purchase is the way he practices medicine. He is conservative in his approach and we explored all options before deciding to perform a partial knee replacement of my left knee. The office staff was courteous, informed and professional. Appointments were timely and there was always an email follow-up to my appointments with a recap of what we discussed and links to relevant information. My surgery was performed on an outpatient basis. After conversations with Dr. Purchase, I knew exactly what to expect in regards to the surgery and recovery period. (Being able to sleep in my own bed that night was wonderful). The helpful office staff assisted with the scheduling of the in-home nurses and physical therapists that worked with me in the first few weeks following the surgery. It's been 4 months since the surgery. My knee is better than ever and I am able to do all of the physical activity that I had been missing. My wife and I just returned from a trip to Europe and I was able to climb the 600 steps to the second level of the Eiffel Tower. I later joked with Dr. Purchase that my new knee was the only part of my body that did not hurt the next morning! I highly recommend Dr. Purchase to anyone considering this type of procedure. This is the type of personal and professional care that you would expect from the best. read more

Professionalism is impeccable !! Made several office visits and was treated great every time .. Surgery was smooth and timely with no problems whatsoever... Thank you to all the staff !! read more

Incredible doctor. Instantly made me feel comfortable, was thorough and knowledgeable. His diagnosis seemed spot on, his prescribed recovery activity exactly what was needed, and his follow-up prompt. Couldn't more highly recommend Dr. Purchase. read more

Dr. Purchase did an amazing job on my surgery & answering ALL my questions throughout my recovery!! Got the a-ok today that I don't need anymore follow up visits. However, if I didn't have a copay at each visit, I would continue going back just to hang out with Dr Purchase & talk joint health!! Thanks for everything!! read more

What a Great experience, Very nice and spoke in terms I could understand. With one quick view of my MRI He knew what to do. AWSOME, read more

I have my knee up along with my spirits. DR Purchase just completed the meniscus repair on my left knee. (He previously had done my right knee so you can see... That had a good result, a couple of years ago). Hey I had always said I wasn't an athlete but honestly what is someone who walks in 11, 60 mile walks,in 6 years??? Not bad for a 63 year old! After walking 120 miles in 2014 Dr Purchase repaired my very very painful knee and I walked another 60 mile walk last year with NO PAIN! When the left knee acted up I was determined to call the one DR I have total faith in, Robert Purchase. My plan is to once again walk 60 miles in PA, next year. Got pain. Need Dr? You won't find anyone better!! And he is nice too.THANKS!!!!! read more