In the past, I have avoided leaving reviews of health care professionals. There are many factors beyond a doctor's control that should not lead to low ratings. For this reason, I typically avoid a review at all, unless a member of my health care is exceptional; Dr. J Weisbein is exceptional.
My case has not been an easy one. In 2015, I was injured while on a military mission. The injury resulted in significant complications with my dominant hand, wrist and arm. I also have chronic medical problems in other areas of my musculoskeletal system and central nervous system. My first surgery, related to this injury, was in 2016, I have had many procedures and surgeries since (Dr. Weisbein is not the surgeon that has operated on my wrist). It has been determined that I have permanent damage and will not return to my original health and baseline; knowing this is extremely difficult and stressful: physically, spiritually, financially. I have had many doctors give me a sorrowful look and allude that I will have to adjust to a new life and the new me. Dr. Weisbein, despite knowing the prognosis, never gives up on me, and is not scared to give me a swift kick in the arse (metaphorical), when I want to give up on myself. I went from being an active duty officer, serving in hazardous conditions and under enormous pressure, to being a “patient”, it is a not an easy situation. My retirement from the Uniform Service came much earlier than I had ever considered, yet alone planned for. Since 15, I have worked hard. I have earned degree after degree while working and serving my country full time and raising kids. As a former foster child, I had very little support, I say this to share how turbulent this transition can be. I made healthy choices, and lived with integrity and a dedication to helping others. Some days having that all derailed can be more than overwhelming.
Dr. J.W has been my pain management specialist through several unsuccessful surgeries. This woman is strong and brilliant. As a doctor she demonstrates an extreme level of insight and is an absolute trail blazer. This is a tough time to be in medicine, and even more challenging for certain field (pain management is absolutely a daily war in this country). It takes a brave individual to stay true to their course and put their patients well being at the top of their priorities.
The front desk staff are amazing; always ready with a smile and willing to help if the can. The clinic staff are wonder, the new PA is empathetic and an asset to the team.
People are at their worse in severe pain. It is never an easy day for anyone in medicine, but J.W does not take her understandable frustration out on the patients.
When reviewing a practice, try to be fair. Research all the stress added by the government, staffing shortages, battles with insurance. Remind yourself that your doctor is not a machine: they experience loss, have health crises, have bills to pay, student loans, long hours. Most health care professionals are not wealthy. It is not a get rich quick scheme (medicine), it is years of school, long hours, self-neglect, and being an absent family member.
Am I a bit emotional today? Yes, I am exhausted, scared, embarrassed by my limitations, haunted by moments from my service years, and crushed by my bodies lack of cooperation, but I remind myself that if it is this hard, where the hell would I be without this brilliant medical team, trying there damndest in a demandable situation. My trust in J.W is unmatched, so much so that I waited for her for a certain procedure as I trust her the most to do it safely and skillfully. If it does not work, it is not for lack of absolute skill.
Excuse typos and lack of eloquent words, I spent a tremendous amount of time, pecking keys with my left hand.
Napa is blessed. Thanks Doc
