Ms. A K.
Yelp
In lieu of a situation in which I am without insurance as I wait for a new job to start, I decided to go in to Planned Parenthood to have my annual exam and testing done. I have to admit, prior to going and reading some of these reviews, I wasn't sure if it was worth a three-hour wait, protesters and nasty security guards just so I could get my annual on time.
But, honest to God, I was surprised. I had my appointment scheduled for 4 pm, and I showed up at 3:30, thinking I could save some time. It's probably the time of day, but there were no Biblethumpers, so I saved myself from having useless brochures shoved in my face. Additionally, when going through security, they could not have been more professional. They weren't overly enthusiastic to see me, nor were they rude - they're security guards, not Avon representatives.
It was a little odd having to walk through the "male waiting room" or whatever that first room full of men is. They all kind of stare at you and it's not a great way to start a visit that will probably be full of invasive questions and/or procedures. But, whatevs. I proceeded to the appointment desk, where the young woman was cordial and welcoming. I filled out some paperwork, waited a bit, and then went up to the third floor to figure out ways for me to pay for services or apply for insurance.
The wait for insurance assistance was long, but the woman who assisted me could not have been kinder. Because my literal "between jobs" situation is so unique, and the new job will not offer health insurance, she was extremely helpful with walking me through the maze that is Affordable Healthcare and even navigated my account to explain key points and structures. It was most definitely not in her job description, and by far the nicest, most patient approach to customer service I have ever experienced. I was expecting a Medicaid-esque rep who would berate me for everything from quitting my last job with a 2 month gap to questioning my citizenship because my birth certificate is in another language. Not the case at all, and I would highly suggest those visiting to utilize the knowledge these insurance coordinators have.
After that, you are sent back to the first floor to wait some more and meet with a counselor. This is where all the fun, invasive questions come in, and the option for HIV testing. The counselor was quick and to the point because she likely had a busload of people she had to see after me, but, nonetheless, professional and courteous. Some of these questions are not easy to ask, and she was clear that an answer was not necessary if I was uncomfortable.
Finally, there was another wait for the actual nurse practitioner who conducted the exam. I saw Bita, who was just lovely. She was the least judgmental, most informative health professional I've yet to see. I highly recommend her, if there is any choice in who you're able to get in with. She conducted the exam quickly, she made the breast exam as unawkward as possible (no easy feat, all things considered), and the pre- and post-questions were asked in an open and understanding manner. Not to sound like a broken record, but this clinic and its staff was far friendlier than any other GYN I have ever visited,
The overall visit took close to 2.5 hours, but for low-cost/free wellness exams that cover everything to ensure you are healthy in the reproductive area, it was honestly worth it. I would highly recommend this center to any woman who is in need of an exam, testing or counseling. Well done, Planned Parenthood.