Kaiser Permanente Medical Offices

I took on a new job September 2010 and my only hesitation in changing jobs was that I’d have Kaiser insurance at my new one. For the most part virtually every person I’ve encountered (doctors, nurses, aides, pharmacy techs, etc.) have outright SUCKED. I’ve witnessed unprofessional behavior from everyone I’ve just mentioned. Perhaps I was spoiled by the great care I’ve received at the Cleveland Clinic over the years. For example, Dr. Kollus, has quite a horrible reputation there. When you mention her name, staff members will cringe in front of you. She is such a large woman. Don’t get me wrong — I’m overweight myself but she easily has 100 – 150 pounds on me. Anyway, she has the nerve to lecture me about losing weight when she is setting an awesome example of herself. Secondly, she’s so large that when she listens to my lungs she can’t stand up and lean over me, instead she basically motorboats my boobs and reaches around with her stethoscope. I also went in as a new patient requesting a prescription for something for my acne. She was well aware I’d been seeing a dermatologist my whole adult life (the joy of adult acne issues) so when I got down to the pharmacy, the tech handed me a tube of what equates to Clearasil. Seriously? If I’ve been on prescription grade acne meds for more than 15 years, don’t you think I would’ve tried the over the counter stuff already? Give me a break. I have encountered some nurse practitioners I’ve liked. The staff at the call center seems to be pretty competent. Frequently the pharmacy has to order medication and they only keep the basics stocked. The one very positive person I’ve encountered is my gynecologist, Dr. Rauser. She’s younger — I’m guessing my age. She is VERY down to Earth and puts you at ease. She shares her personal stories which makes her more relateable. I really appreciate the way she treats me as her patient… I only wish I could see her for the little things like having the sniffles. :) If you can avoid Kaiser at all costs, I’d recommend it. If you’re a man with no need for a gyno, you’re screwed. :) Pretty much all of my coworkers agree with me. We even asked our HR department this year to get us better insurance and charge us more for a premium but no such luck. Here’s to another year of crappy medical services!