Brett Thorson
Prior to the appointment, the office contacted me to request that I arrive earlier than scheduled. I accommodated this request specifically to be helpful. Despite arriving early, I waited approximately 40 minutes before being seen. During the visit, I first spoke with intake staff and then with a Physician Assistant (PA). I explained my symptoms in detail, including pain under my left scapula following a lifting injury, as well as lower back pain. I was told that only one issue could be addressed during the visit. As a patient without medical training, I was not given guidance on how to proceed to receive care for multiple areas of pain, nor was it explained why both concerns could not be evaluated. I never saw or spoke directly with a physician. At one point, my case appeared to be discussed in a public hallway outside the exam room, which I could hear through the door. This made me uncomfortable from both a privacy and professionalism standpoint. The PA recommended X-rays and trigger point injections. When I asked whether an MRI might be appropriate, given that this felt like a muscular injury related to lifting, the question was dismissed without explanation. I was not given a clear understanding of what trigger point injections are, what they treat, or what outcome to expect. I completed the X-rays immediately. While waiting, I noticed used tissues or napkins left on chairs in the waiting area and pointed this out to staff. The concern was acknowledged briefly but not addressed, and the debris remained in place throughout my time there. When I returned to schedule the trigger point injections, I encountered significant confusion among front-desk staff. One staff member stated she was leaving and could not assist me, did not know who my PA was, and sent a message to another staff member. The next staff member was on the phone, then appeared unaware of my situation and said she had not received any message. I ultimately had to open my own chart and show her the orders myself. When I asked whether the injections could be done the same day, given that the X-rays had just been completed, she laughed at the question. I was told that insurance approval would be required, that I would not be notified of the approval, and the procedure was scheduled two weeks out. I am still in pain and left the office without any interim plan for pain relief, no explanation of the findings, and no clarity on whether or when someone would review my imaging with me. At the end of the visit, I did not understand: What the likely cause of my pain is Whether a physician reviewed my case What the X-rays may show or when results will be discussed What trigger point injections are or how they will help What I should do in the meantime to manage pain I made every effort to be cooperative, flexible, and respectful throughout the visit. Unfortunately, I left feeling like an inconvenience rather than a patient seeking care. I was supposed to see Dr. Soo Kim.. but never saw her.