Dr. Shinder has been the very best "investment" my husband and I could have made.
Our internist of 15 years retired in 2011. We were traveling 25 miles to see him but he was a former neighbor, our friend and a fine physician. When he retired, we sought a local internist quickly realizing that she was just too busy, too interested in having us tested instead of making a diagnosis, and not caring. Our retired internist said that one of his former associates was very good but she had gone concierge.
We figured that we would give it a shot anyhow. Dr. Shinder has been the very best investment my husband and I could have made. WHAT A FIND! We are both 65 years old and not on Medicare since I am still working and have wonderful coverage through my employer. I do pay out of pocket for the MDVIP.
From the minute we met this late 40's warm, caring, doctor who listened to you, who asked questions of you, who was down-to-earth sensible, we felt so comfortable and cared for. In October of 2014 I wasn't feeling well and had a high fever. Dr. Shinder thought it might be another of my sinus infections but when the CT came back normal and my blood pressure became extremely low, she admitted me to the hospital. I was triaged so that a determination could be made quickly as to the problem. It turned out that though my lungs sounded clear, I had pneumonia. Dr. Shinder immediately called me and came to the hospital and explained that I would have IVs of two antibiotics for the pneumonia and fluids to bring up my blood pressure. This was on a Thursday afternoon. By Friday, she had another doctor, a pulmonologist see me as well. Over the weekend and into Monday both doctors saw me each day.
After I was discharged, Dr. Shinder called me each day for a week to check on me. However, It isn't just about when you are sick. She does everything to keep you well! Flu shots, pneumovax for my husband (due to immunological issues, my body won't accept vaccines).
When we first started with Dr. Shinder, she ordered a aortic ultrasound just to check the condition of our hearts. You can see her within two days, she answers emails within 24 hours and calls you back the same day. I know that she works long hours yet I never feel rushed when I am in her office and importantly to working folks, she doesn't allow for over-booking and therefore you never have to cool your heels waiting for her.
Yes, concierge medicine costs money but isn't our health and well-being worth it? Traditional medical practices serve too many patients, have too much paper work to do and never really are able to take the time to properly care for their patients. It's the system, not the individuals who are at fault. But if we can receive excellent care, why not go for it?
I NEVER respond to surveys but I had to toot Dr. Shinder's horn as she is too humble to do it herself! Happy National Doctor's Day