The staff at the Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology is a remarkable group of people. Let’s be honest, nobody looks forward to seeing a gastroenterologist, so when the staff at a medical practice—the ENTIRE staff—is kind and helpful, patients are going to feel more comfortable being there. That is the hallmark of patient-centered care, and it’s what I experienced at the Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology. The intake person at the front desk was pleasant, helpful and efficient. I was struggling with my allergies and needed water, and after directing me to the water fountain, he offered me a cup. While that’s a small gesture, it demonstrated real consideration. My medical history was taken by a staff member who was engaging and friendly. I saw a medical resident who spoke with me about why I was there. I gave her some of my history, and then I saw Jannel Lee-Allen. Dr. Lee-Allen has a remarkably good bedside manner. She showed concern while at the same time being direct. Hearing things that are potentially unpleasant are sometimes best said in a direct way, and I value that. Dr. Lee-Allen was clear and concise and direct, but her clarity was infused with a sense of humor. Again, that’s putting a patient at ease. I had to schedule a procedure, and that involved spending a lot of time with the scheduler. She took the time I needed. I never felt rushed. The time it took was based not on her getting to the next patient. It was about what I needed and making sure I understood everything about preparation for an upcoming procedure. I struggled to understand some things, and I needed her to go over them several times. The scheduler, however, was reassuring, telling me she would take the time necessary. She wanted to make sure I understood what was happening. This is another example of how the Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology believes in patient-centered care—something they demonstrated that every step of the way.
