One Nurse's Opinion of UVM Gastroenterology

[nancyd]

As a retired Nurse with over 25 years experience, I occasionally want to inform people of what I consider to be important Heath issues.
There are many, as you know. But when I see or experience poor quality care, I need to say something about it.
The UVM Medical Center Gastroenterology dept is about the worst I have ever encountered.
I have been "dealing" with them since 2007.

I have care for a relative with complicated medical issues. There was much suffering which
Led me to seek care from this medical group.
In broad terms, this is what we experienced:
Total Apathy towards the patient.
No clinical intervention except for a few tests and a prescription.
Testing was positive for two serious conditions.
Absolutely nothing was done to relieve suffering.
They did not forward reports to me or our primary physician.

I had to research over years to find alternative measures to combat symptoms.
I was successful in treating symptoms, but they still occurred daily.
I tried one doctor after another at UVM Gastroenterology.
On one initial visit. The physician actually said" you've been to every doctor here. What do you expect
Me to do about it?" ... Nothing was done. When secretary asked if he wanted the patient again, he let out an angry "NO!"

They new he has had a large Stone in his pancreas for 7 years!
They knew this could be causing his symptoms.
I didn't know this until recently.

I took him Dartmouth Medical Center... He had surgery.
He is much better! He still needs further surgery, but we found our solution.

When you need PROPER MEDICAL CARE for Gastroenterology... You go to Dartmouth, to Dr. Stuart Gordon.

Also, we have used and continue to use Dr Halliburton,
Who is outside the UVM practice. But has privileges at UVM.
They treat him badly. They Don't send patient reports to him, etc.
Dr. Halliburton is kind, thorough, and it was he who referred us to Dartmouth for surgery.

These things MATTER! I am a strong patient advocate and highly experienced as A Quality Care expert.

[Rev. Elizabeth]

I hope you have shared these concerns with the powers that be at UVM Medical Center.  Glad to hear that you did find help, finally.

[nancyd]

Elizabeth,
I did, I wrote a letter to UVZm patient Advocate Office  long ago,
Never received a reply.
I do intend on writing to the Medical Board, and to the President
Of UVM President of Medical Center.

The important thing is that his suffering is almost
completely gone, thanks to Dartmouth and Dr. Gordon and Dr. Halliburton
In Colchester.
 Our nightly prayers for help are now our prayers of thanksgiving.

[Susanne]

I also received the same disregard attitude towards the patient in this department.    No follow up care, no concern for symptoms, etc.   
I am glad you found someone who is attentive and cares about the person!     

[nancyd]

Susanne,
I'm sorry to hear that you too experienced problems.
This group practice at UVM holds a monopoly in gastroenterology at UVM.
The are literally hostile towards "outside" physicians who have
Privileges there. They are known for their contempt and in-fighting with
Other gastroenterologists who are just trying to do their job.

What is needed is an oversight committee to address complaints in
Made by physicians and patients alike. And it should be done in a transparent way.
Their behavior is despicable, and totally unprofessional and in violation of their
Code of ethics.

Thank you for speaking out.

[mirjo]

I think the best thing that could happen is for UVM to develop some local competition. It has been the "only" level I Trauma Center in the state for too long and sadly, has an attitude that appears to seep into the staff and with all the new "partnerships," is becoming a monopoly. :/

[lena6]

I went to Dartmouth for my back surgery 6 years ago and came out unable to walk. To this day I use a cane and walker.

[nancyd]

Oh Lena,
What a terrible situation. Is it possible for you to get other opinions
Elsewhere?  What I do , and there are no guarantees, is I research specialists.
I look to see if they have published articles in medical journals,
and patient reviews. That too is no guarantee.
There is good and bad in everyone, including physicians.

Perhaps your situation can be helped. Hospital for Special Surgery in NY?
You shouldn't have to suffer if you are in pain.
If you need help, I am available to review your situation,
And find you help " out there".

Nancy