"I met Dr. Goodman after exchanging several emails over the July 4th weekend. I was able to arrange for an appointment on July 7th. I would like everyone to know my first impression of Dr. G was – he is a “Good Man”. Could his name be a coincidence? I don’t know. But anyway… I arrived at his office in Park Ridge, NJ & was informed he would be late because he got stuck in traffic on Route 4. There were two other individuals in the waiting room & this gave me the opportunity to quiz them on their procedures & experiences. When Dr. G arrived he was smiling & ready to see his patients. That impressed me because I know how I get when I am stuck in traffic & it is NOT a pretty sight . He knew the name of everyone in the room, even mine & greeted us all individually. My impression over time did not change. It just got better. I believe with Dr. G you get exactly what you see – a smiling, happy, genuine & sincere guy. He tells it like it is & does not sugar coat or gloss over anything. I think that is what I liked most about him. I felt I could ask any question & get a straight answer. Dr. G has two assistants at the Park Ridge office. Linda, whom I never met, but have spoken to on the phone numerous times. She is very helpful & if she doesn’t have the answer at her fingertips get finds out. Mary, whom I met the evening of my appointment, was very friendly & reassuring. I think patients should know that Dr. G appears to be down to earth, realistic & straightforward. As for aftercare Dr. G believes it is important to have structure, consistency & support. It is my understanding that at this time he does not offer a structured aftercare or support program out of his Park Ridge office. However, Linda has informed me one is currently (August 2000) in the works & should be underway within the next couple of months. Dr. G & his staff address the risks of surgery by providing each potential patient with a video to view just prior to the consultation meeting. The video addresses the different types of surgery that could be performed as well as details regarding the various risks one can encounter during & after the procedure is performed. I also asked many questions during the consultation & Dr. G addressed each & every one of them & my related concerns.
I cannot stress enough – it is the patient who must take responsibility – of the surgery & the research – ask questions. If you do not understand or are unclear on something ask again; keep asking until you get it. Be sure you understand. No Dr. no matter how brilliant can read your mind.
All in all, I would rate Dr. G as “off the scale”. No pun intended. He is a good man who is trying to help others. His personality complements his knowledge & experience.
I am schedule to have my surgery on September 8, 2000. I will come back the site shortly thereafter to update my information.
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