Pediatrian

The other day I asked about Dr. Oppehemher. I am thinking of switching to him as I said. Before I do let me tell you why and tell me what you think:

I go to Garden City Peds. right now

First time there I waited 40 minutes in exam room until doc showed up

Second time there - waited 15 minutes in exam room. They gave sammy a Strep test and it was POSITIVE . I was surprised bc he really is not sick. Anyway I was NEVER TOLD that he needs to have a re-test in 10 days. I know that from knowledge. Shouldnt they tell me that I have to bring him back ? What if I didnt know that.

I want to be sure that the new doc is better and I will not have to wait and insrtucted on things.

Re: Pediatrian

Honestly, I think it's unrealistic to expect not to wait. 40 mins in an exam room is a long time, but I waited for over an hour in the exam room at my OB the other day b/c an emergency came in and he needed to see her right away. Especially in cold and flu season, I think we have to expect longer waits in general at doctor's office. Dr. Oppenehimer's practice is very big, and if you need to schedule appointments around work or school I'm told there can be decent waits to see the doctors.

As far as feeling like you have to follow up, that's a problem. I've never felt that way at Dr. Oppenheimer's practice, but I've never heard of going back in 10 days for another strep culture, and I used to get it every year when I was a kid. I had a positive culture 4 weeks ago and haven't been retested. But I find that the doctor's and nurse practioners at the practice are very thorough and never rush me, even if I have a long list of questions. I've also called them between appointments and always get a call back the same day. The speed of the return call depends on the severity of the issue, but it's always the same day.

Good luck, I was thinking of switching one of my doctors recently so I know how stressful this is!

Re: Pediatrian

I agree with sarahsmommy - in everythign she said.

Dr Oppenheimer is a great practice but you will have to wait. Newborns take priority but you can still wait in the exam room - 5-25 minutes. I go on nights and weekends and there is always a wait. During flu shot season, I was there for almost an hour (in room and wainting area combined) with a healthy baby waiting for my well care. I stood in the back by the newborn waiting area to feel safe but there was still a wait.

Go with your gut and who you trust. You must feel like your dr is listening to you and responsive to your needs.

Re: Pediatrian

I work in a peds office and I have to say you have have to expect to wait no matters whose office it is. Peds are very crazy. For the recheck for strep test I've never heard of that. For an ear infection...yes..but not for strep.

Re: Pediatrian

Thank you ladies. I guess I will give garden city one more chance

Re: Pediatrian

Just wanted to say that I use Woodbury Pediatrics.. LOVE the entire practice and wouldnt take the kids anyplace else but I do have to wait anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to be seen ALL the time..

These pediatrics are always so busy that they are booking ppl 5 minutes apart or sometimes booking them at the same time.. Its crazy..
Still and all if you really like the doctor its worth the wait...
Ive learned now to bring things with me to keep the kids occupied when I go.

Re: Pediatrian

I go to Dr. Oppenheimer too, I never really had a long wait though. SOmetimes it can get busy there but luckily for me they have pretty much kept to their appointment schedule.

I find them great in returning phone calls promptly after hours and for answering and not minding questions.

HTH!

Message edited 1/4/2006 10:15:48 PM.