Riverbend Medical Group

Riverbend Medical Group is a collection of primary care, pediatrics, OB/​GYN, specialties, radiology, and laboratory, all in one place. I do appreciate that, on a day like yesterday, I can go in for my broken nose, immediately go to x-​ray, and then get some labs done that were ordered by my gastroenterologist, without bouncing around from office to office.
Since it’s such a complex business, I’m going to break down the individual sectors to rate them.
Providers (Primary Care, Adult Internal Medicine): 2 stars
Why: Almost every interaction I’ve had with providers at this location has been less than impressive. First, it’s nearly impossible to get an appointment for the same week, even if it’s urgent. They constantly recommend me to the ER for things like stomach pains (which is a chronic problem for me). Secondly, the providers are tangibly overwhelmed, with no-​time-​for-​your-​intelligent-​forethought-​or-​questions, and an ever so noticeable arrogant attitude. Third, you get shuttled off to specialty referrals (which you will have to wait MONTHS for) for the simplest things. Need a pap smear? referred. Want a spot on your skin looked at? referred. I understand going to a specialist for complex problems, but «easy» issues should be resolved in office. Fourth, due to probably an influx of drug users, it is damn near impossible to get a pain management prescription, even when you are in legitimate and severe pain. For patients experiencing new or chronic pain severe enough to warrant prescription drugs, I recommend you seek other medical practitioners. I have seen Dr. Jennifer Jackson (no longer at Riverbend Medical Springfield) and Teresa Svart, NP.
Front Office Staff and MAs (Primary Care, Adult Internal Medicine): 5 stars
Why: These people deserve a medal. I’ve seen the «type» that comes through their door, and I always see them handle every patient with grace and compassion. I never have to wait long to check in, and I’m not having to constantly update information or do paperwork. One small suggestion, the check-​in does have what seems to be a personal radio or something. Maybe consider keeping it to something ambient, instead of bumping mariachi toward closing time? Seems a bit unprofessional.
Laboratory: 4 stars
Why: Very short wait to check in, they always have all of my orders (even from other Riverbend specialists in other locations), and draw for everything at once. I’m usually in and out in less than 5 minutes. The phlebotomists are tremendously skilled at their trade: I’ve never even had a bruise, let alone some kind of mishap during the draw. Sometimes they seem a bit unfriendly, but I think it’s just because they’re very, very busy.
Radiology: 3 stars
Why: Unfortunately, even if your doctor says «get this (radiology exam) done right now», that doesn’t mean that the radiology department will work you in. Thankfully, it appears that they can do that with x-​rays and the wait time was minimal yesterday. Friendliness is hit-​or-​miss depending on the staff (my x-​ray tech yesterday was very nice), but skill level is questionable to me. I’ve had two tests done there now, both of which «showed nothing». According to the doctors who ordered them, an ultrasound wasn’t performed correctly (hence, not visualizing specific organs), and the x-​ray results contraindicated a physical exam by the doctor. For a «sure bet» on radiology, I’d prefer going to Chicopee instead.
I’ll stick with Riverbend Springfield, as it’s closest to my house, and I appreciate all the «extras» they have right on location. I have switched to a new PCP at this location, so here’s hoping that he is a welcome change of pace, in terms of attitude and willingness to work with patients.

This update is based on my Month of October experience. My youngest has had a bad cold/​sinusitis/​chronic cough literally all month. I’ve probably been 5 times since the 7^th of the month and always a different and unhelpful diagnosis. Maybe it’s this and maybe it’s that? NO. I will stand by the fact that Dr Wondriska is a fabulous doctor but with the sick visits we only saw her once. I finally brought my doctor to the ER and it was asthma! And this was a day after I came here and saw a doctor who said it «might be allergies». Come on! If Dr Wondriska ever leaves I’ll just follow her.