I'm a frustrated patient and would NOT recommend Dr. Fitzmaurice (hereafter, Dr. F). My experience with this practice has not been a positive one beginning with my initial visit all the way through surgery and attempts at follow up care. After seeing Dr. F for my initial consultation, he recommended carpal tunnel surgery with plasma injection. Since I had some questions about the plasma injection, I scheduled a follow up, but was only able to see a PA. The PA told me she didn't think I even needed surgery, contradicting the Dr., which left me confused and uneasy. But she explained the plasma injection and also that it was not covered by insurance, because it was considered experimental, but it's purpose was to expedite the healing process. This would cost me $1,000 out of pocket. So, I went ahead and scheduled the surgery.
I had wrist surgery performed by Dr F in Oct. While the surgical nursing staff were nice and empathetic, I can't say the same about the Dr. (see below for details). I was instructed to follow up in 6 months. The post surgical instructions indicated that most patients would return to normal function within 1-2 weeks. I am now 3 months post surgery and continue to experience wrist pain with some swelling. Also, I am experiencing limited range of motion and grip weakness. Since this is my dominant hand, this has been a concern.
When I called to schedule an appointment with Dr F, I was told his first available was 5 weeks out, even when I explained that I was experiencing pain and swelling, but was told that I could see a PA sooner. I was not happy with that since during a prior visit with a PA, I received conflicting info to what the Dr told me. I thought it was important to see the Dr. I was told he has limited appointments for patients as he does surgery 5 days a week.
After writing a complaint letter to the office, I was given an appointment with the Dr, but told he would squeeze me in in between surgeries. When I saw him, he took an X-ray and told me I would need a 2nd surgery to correct bone rubbing on bone. I showed him the swelling and bump I have been left with from the plasma injection, which is very painful to the touch. His response was that the plasma works well at the beginning stages of arthritis but not in full blown arthritis. I was shocked at this response, as I am a 67 year old female and the Dr was very aware of my arthritis. I did not say anything to him at the time, because I knew at that moment I would never return.
I have been made to feel like the Dr.'s only interest is surgery and not follow up or office visits. As I said earlier, I am disappointed in this practice and have been made to feel like I'm just a number (or a hand), not a valued patient. I am reluctant to mention this, but I feel it is important. During my surgical procedure, not once did the Dr speak to me to ask how I was doing. There was no communication, nor any empathy shown. A 'are you ok' or 'how are you doing' would have been comforting. After surgery, he just left and never spoke to me.
Needless to say, I am unhappy with the entire care process, and I am still experiencing pain and discomfort. If you are considering Dr F, think again. Read all the reviews before selecting a Dr and find someone who will show empathy and find the time to see you in follow up, and not just squeeze you in between surgeries.