Bienvenida S Austria, MD

It took me too long to write this, but Dr. Austria caused me and my family great trauma 2019-2020. My relative was diagnosed with severe bipolar disorder. We described all the symptoms and erratic (and at times dangerous) behavior in detail at our first visit. Although her affect was very cold, we were hopeful this doctor would proceed appropriately. She prescribed one medication; over the course of the next several months, this relative’s condition deteriorated considerably. Various family members called repeatedly to ask for 1) different medication 2) involvement of the crisis response team 3) emergency admission. Not only was it difficult to get her on the phone, but when she did speak, she was curt and dismissive of our concerns. Finally, things came to a head when this family member accidental y caused a fire due to their mental state. A neighbor called us-understandably very upset and worried about their own family. We called again, and only with the help of a dedicated counselor who had been following our relative, could we move forward with the mobile crisis unit. During the entirety of that intervention, the case manager remained available to us and ensured Dr. Austria finally undersigned a mandatory admission and hold. We brought our family member to this doctor in August of 2019; in July of 2020, this individual finally received the right level of care. The inpatient team completely revamped the medications, with marked improvements in this relative’s mental health and essential elimination of manic episodes. Follow-up was maintained and stability achieved to intense relief of all involved. It should not take multiple phone calls from a family and reports of aggressive behavior, incidents of intoxicated driving, threats of violence coming from the patient, for a doctor to have the common sense and compassion to listen and alter their approach.

One of the best Doctors in Great Neck, General...