Over and Beyond

Dr. Helena Santos-Martins goes "over and beyond" with her dedication to her patients. I can say this because she has shown this dedication numerous times in the less than 2 years that she has been my PCP. This was my first experience with MD VIP medicine; I was relying on what I had heard from one of her patients regarding her relationship with those she serves as PCP. My story is a very simple but significant one--last week during my annual physical I told Dr. Santos-Martins about a gastro issue I have been having. She wanted to hear everything about what I was experiencing--with her specific questions, as well as her keen listening skills, she came up with a plan for me. What impressed me most was that she called me that evening at 9 p.m. after reviewing an X-ray she had ordered that afternoon-she was STILL in her office. As we spoke, she asked that I call her office in the next 48 hours with a report on how I was doing. I did call the office and when I was speaking with her office manager, she got on the phone when she realized it was me. I am 71 years old and have never had a physician do that for me, ever!! She made time to not only listen but hear me. This is an example of dedication, compassion and caring for your patient's well-being -- going "over and beyond" because it matters!!