Kaiser Primary Care - Oakland
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Kaiser Primary Care - Oakland
Seeking phenomenal Kaiser GP and specialists!
Dec 2011
After years of sitting on the fence, I've switched from
HealthNet to Kaiser. My reluctance stemmed from the fact
that -- through years of trial and error -- I had found a
primary care physician and team of specialists who I trusted
and who took great care of me. My hope is that it won't
take years at Kaiser before I feel I'm receiving the same
level of care.
Please tell me about doctors in Kaiser who you feel are
exceptional. I have a science background and prefer doctors
who treat me as an intellectual equal and who are
willing/able to talk about the science behind the medicine.
Caring/compassionate bedside manner is, of course, also
preferred.
I'm particularly looking for:
1) a female family doctor/general practitioner
2) a female OB-GYN
3) a pediatrician
4) endocrinologist for treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis
-- I'm on combination therapy (levoxyl and levothrionine)
and would like to maintain this
5) orthopedic surgeon (for knee surgery that I have long
delayed but need to take care of)
Thanks for recommendations.
anon
I've been very happy with both my Kaiser OB, Erica Breneman,
and my GP, Tali Ziv (both at Oakland) and would highly
recommend both. I like them both for the same reasons---they
respect me and take any concerns I have seriously, and are
always very direct/honest (including when they don't know
what's causing a symptom or problem), which I appreciate.
They're also both very responsive if I call or email with
questions (sometimes even responding late at night or over
the weekends). In general, I think you need to be proactive
at Kaiser to find doctors you like (and happily, there are
lots of great ones out there!) You can switch online, which
makes it pretty easy---if you don't like a doctor, don't be
shy about choosing a new one. Also, the Kaiser online system
will often show doctors as not having open panels. Your
options are either to wait and try again (often they seem to
have openings at the beginning of each month) or to contact
the doctor directly if there's a reason you'd like to see
her (specific expertise, etc.) because some doctors will add
you even when they aren't officially open to new patients.
So don't stress if you pick out a few doctors you'd like to
see and then the system says you can't see them. We've been
really happy with Kaiser, and also switched somewhat
begrudgingly since we were happy with the various doctors we
saw with Healthnet. I have come to greatly appreciate
Kaiser's streamlined care---I love that my doctors talk to
one another and email each other when there's something the
other should know, and having testing and other procedures
all under one roof has been wonderful. Happy Kaiser patient
Kaiser Pinole or Oakland doctor recommendations
Dec 2011
We are going to be covered by Kaiser starting in January, and would
really appreciate recommendations for primary care doctors for adults
and teenagers. We live in El Cerrito, and can go to the Pinole or
Oakland offices. From what we've seen traffic and parking-wise, Pinole
seems like an easier site to visit, but there aren't as many
practioners there. Thanks!
Laurie
For adults and teens I highly recommend Drs. Kiang and
Flores in Internal Medicine. If you are a woman, you can
also choose to have an ob-gyn doc as your primary instead.
Dr. Perry, Dr. Liu are wonderful. As for parking, the new
Broadway building is super easy to park at. And the BART
shuttle from MacArthur is reliable and very user friendly.
Rachel
I highly recommend Dr. Nandi at Oakland Kaiser. She is wonderful,
personable and knowledgeable. She's also close in age to me (30s) and we
both became mothers around the same time.
All of the staff at kaiser Oakland are just
absolutely amazing, no complaints there. I would definitely recommend
making the drive there for your care.
Fan of Oakland Kaiser
Spanish-speaking physician in E. Bay Kaiser?
Sept 2011
My husband is a Spanish speaker with limited English skills and he's been
not happy with his current primary care physician who is bilingual. He
wants to change but it is not easy to find bilingual English/Spanish
speaking primary care physicians. Does anyone have a recommendation for a
bilingual physician who they are happy with either at Oakland or Hayward
Kaiser? Gracias!
Searching For a Good One...
My doc at Oakland Kaiser is really compassionate and he's a
great listener. He happens to be bilingual too. I think he's
great. Dr. Walter Acuna:
http://mydoctor.kaiserpermanente.org/ncal/provider/walteracuna
Lisa in Oakland
Kaiser Dr supportive of alternative health methods
Sept 2011
Hi,
I need to pick a primary care physician at Richmond or
Oakland Kaiser. I currently see an Acupuncturist and
Homeopath for my health concerns. Dr. Joan G. Heinsheimer,
my Doctor, retired My personal experience with allopathic medicine has
been
abysmal. I take my health into my own hands,
live a healthy lifestyle, and do my own research. I'm
seeking a Doctor who can appreciate this and treat me as a
fellow adult who also has a working mind with the important
knowledge of my body & its history (Dr. Heinsheimer treated
me w/ this kind of respect). I am entering my mid-forties
and understand that finding an M.D. is important.
Help!
Jennifer
Dr. Walter Acuna at Kaiser Oakland is 100% onboard with my use of
alternative therapies. He's also a great listener.
Lisa in Oakland
Kaiser Internist - Gay Friendly
July 2011
I am looking for a gay-friendly internist at Kaiser Richmond or Oakland. I am a
middle-aged gay man and a dad, looking for someone thorough, approachable and
non-
homophobic. Thanks!
Dr. Kiang at Kaiser Oakland is very LGBT welcoming. She also is the
best primary care doctor I have ever had. Ever. She has been an
incredible advocate for me getting the right care quickly. She is also
highly regarded by her colleagues. She happens to have a few openings
in her panel now since she just stepped out of some admin
responsibilities. Kaiser Member Services in Oakland and San Francisco
also has a list of doctors who are LGBT friendly but I don't know any
of them personally.
Kath
Carl Violano is an LGBT-friendly internist at Kaiser Oakland. You can
go on Kaiser's website and read his blurb. If he isn't accepting new
patients you can read through the profiles of the docs and it's usually
pretty clear who is LGBT- friendly from those.
sara
I can highly recommend Dr. Stephanie Scott at Kaiser Oakland, although
I have no idea if she is taking new patients (I sadly haven't figured
out how to check without telling Kaiser I want to change doctors, which
I don't). On the gay-friendly front, she is a lesbian mom of 3. On the
doctor front, she is just really sensible, and has been particularly
great for issues like my chronically strained ankle (referral to a PT),
and even with advice for some things I couldn't get covered by Kaiser
(suggested myofacial therapy for my back pain, which has been
enormously helpful and provided a lot of self-help skills, even though
it wasn't covered). If she has an opening, snag it!
Carrie
May 2011
I'm seeking
recommendations for an excellent, personable and smart primary care
doctor at Kaiser Oakland. I'm 54, female, reasonably healthy with
some chronic conditions. Who do you recommend? Thanks for your
help... Anon
I highly recommend Dr. Raymond Yu. Dr. Yu has been my physician for
nearly 20 years (beginning during his internship/residency). He's a
great listner, completely focused on overall health and wellness, and
always willing to refer patients to specialists as needed.
Tiffany
Female Primary Care Doc at Kaiser Oakland
Feb 2011
I am looking for a new primary care provider at Kaiser
Oakland, preferably female. The following doctors are
accepting new patients: Priscilla Flores, Ritu Singhal,
Safa Magid, Jean Rhow, Maria Luz Webster-Longin, and
Katarzyna Rapa. Any feedback on recent interactions (good
or bad) would be much appreciated. Thanks.
anon
I'm new to Kaiser Oakland and have had only one occasion to
see Katarzyna Rapa, but I thought she was personable,
thoughtful, and non-condescending-- I will definitely go
back to her.
Pleased Patient
I recently saw Dr. Flores in urgent care at Kaiser Oakland to treat a
bad cough. My regular doctor was not available that day. Dr. Flores
seemed genuinely interested in helping me, gave me useful advise and
followed up that evening with a phone call. Good luck
anonymous
Primary Care Doctor at Kaiser Oakland
Jan 2011
I'm switching to Kaiser and looking for a primary care doctor,
preferably female. Has anyone had positive experiences with any of
the following doctors? Safa Magid, Shruti Gandhi, Ritu Singhal, or
Hai-tao Tang? These are the only doctor shown as available right
now. Is there a way to have access to a doctor whose not on the
''available'' list.
Ritu Singhal has been my primary care physician for a year
or two. I find her reassuring, caring, and intelligent, and
am thus far sufficiently satisfied with my interactions with
her that I'm sticking with her.
Kaiser Oakland Male Doctors
Jan 2011
My husband has never found a male doctor that he loves at
Kaiser Oakland. Any recomendations?
Thank you
doctorless
I really like Dr. Charles Whitehill. He is newer to Kaiser, but
takes time to talk to you and was a great listener and responded to
all emails and calls when I had a medical concern.
anonymous
I haven't met Dr. Dennis Ing, but my husband has seen him for
several years and likes him.
Male Doctor at Kaiser Oakland -- Dr. Vic Silvestre is a good pick,
if he has openings for new patients -- a periodic problem with
Kaiser is finding a primary care provider who has openings for new
patients -- took me 4 years to find one when my previous doctor
retired. Dr. Silvestre is smart, compassionate, and a great
communicator. When he feels that you need the services of a
specialist, he makes it happen without a lot of hoop jumping. I've
been very pleased with him.
Informavore
Looking for a doctor at Oakland Kaiser
Dec 2010
My family is looking for a new doctor at Oakland Kaiser, now
that the UC plans have gotten so expensive. I would
appreciate your comments.
I see Kimberly Reynosa at Oakland Kaiser and she is great. Very
positive, thorough, and always responsive. Never hesitates to provide a
referral either. She's a great choice!
UC Kaiser too
Male internal medicine doctor at Kaiser Oakland?
Oct 2011
I moved to the Bay three years ago and haven't had a
check-up since. Now that I'm 40, I think I have to be a
little more responsible, but have no idea how to find
someone good at Kaiser Oakland. Can anyone recommend a male
internist/general practitioner who is smart, willing to
listen, and willing to answer questions?
overdue
My husband goes to Joseph Jordan at Oakland Kaiser. He saw him for an
initial ''first patient consult'' and has gone 2 other times in 4
years (sinus infection, headache problem). Each time he felt like he
was friendly, straightforward, and honest.
Happy Kaiser Family
I like Dr. Kirk Stumpf at Kaiser Oakland. He is low-key and
affable, which I like. He picks up on the important stuff
(like following up on blood pressure checks) but doesn't nag
too much about the details (like my overly prolonged weight
reduction plans). He promptly answers my email questions,
and when I have suggested changes to my prescriptions, he
has been agreeable. On my first visit with him, he spent
close to an hour taking my medical history and just getting
to know me and making me feel comfortable. The last time I
went in for a check-up, I happened to have an annoying rash
that I'd been trying to ignore, and he made me a same-day
appointment with a dermatologist. I really appreciated that.
I'm not a high maintenance patient so I can't say how he'd
be for a more demanding person, but for me, he has just the
right amount of laid-backness combined with responsiveness.
anon
My husband sees Dr. Joseph Kim and has been very happy with him.
anon
Dec 2009
Re: Kaiser Primary Physician Walnut Creek
If you are willing to go to Kaiser Oakland, I would like to recommend
my primary care physician, Tali Ziv. She has been my primary care
doctor for the past 6 or 8 years. She is caring, attentive, thorough
and communicates well. I feel like I have an advocate for my health
in a sometimes big system. Highly recommended.
very happy Kaiser patient
Sept 2009
My doctor recently got promoted and is dropping most of her current patients
as a result. I'm looking for a new primary care physician at Oakland Kaiser
(preferably a female). Ideally I'll find someone who is comfortable with
patients who also see alternative health care practitioners.
anon.
I wonder if we had the same Kaiser Oakland Doctor! This just
happened to me too but they assigned us to Chantel Morrison who
is new to Kaiser and an Osteopath. I met her last week and
totally liked her! I told her about seeing an acupuncturist,
taking herbs, and getting cranio-sacral work done and she was
super supportive. I liked my old doctor, but I think Chantal will
be great too!
kaiser fan now
Aug 2009
Hi - Wondering if anyone has recommendations for adult primary care
with Kaiser Oakland. There is not too much that is recent on the
site and with the limited number of doctors taking new patients I am
hoping to gather as many recs. as I can!
Thank you!
Maggie
Dr Silvestre has been good so far for my wife and I. She is confronting a
medical issue and I have confronted mine recently and found him accessible
and helpful. visits are quick and efficient, emails are answered, phone
calls returned when absolutely urgent. The kaiser system is imperfect, but
they serve a large population efficently.
Good Luck
June 2009
My usual Kaiser doc has left and I've been assigned Douglass
Crawford as my GP in Oakland. Anyone out there with experience
with him? I'm a very healthy woman and want to stay that way,
and I'd like a doc who can grease the Kaiser wheels for me and
has something new to say (i.e. I've practiced in medical
environments so not really interested in a re-hashing of
standard recommendations, want someone up on the new and
latest). I actually rarely see my GP, but when I do it's
because I want to think something through with them rather
thoroughly. Thanks for any feedback you have on him.
anon
My partner recently started using Dr. Douglass Crawford at Kaiser
Oakland and so far he is pleased with the service. Dr. Crawford was
personable, thorough and on time for the appt. Also my partner
recently sent Dr. Douglass Crawford an email (non urgent) and my
partner received a response within 48 hrs which is good since the
previous doctor at Kaiser never responded to emails. So far
everything seems to be working out!
Happy
Female primary care doctor?
Jan 2009
I'm looking for a primary care Dr. (preferably female) at Oakland Kaiser. Those that
have been referred by friends, are no longer accepting patients.
Is there a way to get into a Drs. care whose practice is closed?
Thank you
Dr. Eileen Kim has been my PCP for the last 8 or so years. She is very
personable. I also very much like the fact that she is good with email
questions posed through the Kaiser website. This has saved me from having
to schedule an appt and then go in; rather she'll shoot a prescription to
the pharmacy and I can just pick up what I need very quickly. For
instance I had a cough at night and I was able to get some cough syrup and
a good nights rest.
Hope this helps!
Dec 2008
Does anyone have any info about Dr. Rosemary Hernandez, Kaiser Oakland?
I need to choose a new primary care provider and she is the only woman
accepting new patients.
anon
I have had dr Hernandez for a while and I can't say I am too impressed.
I hardly ever go to the doctor and the few times I have seen her she did
not really explain what was going on or listened to me really. It felt
like she pretended to listen but had her own opinion upfront anyway. I
am actually considering switching myself. I am not looking for a buddy
buddy doctor but one whom I feel listens to patients and does not try to
give you drugs right away without considering anything else.
good luck to you.
c.
June 2008
We just moved up to Oakland and would really appreciate some
recommendations for a good personal physician at Kaiser Oakland.
Either Internal Medicine or Family Practice would be fine. Not
many MDs are accepting new patients so if you have any hints on
how to get into a closed practice I'd appreciate that too.
Thanks much
Reva
My husband and I both see Dr. Nora Emon at Kaiser Oakland. We
cannot recommend this personable, very smart, willing to listen
MD highly enough.
Dr. Emon fan
Jan 2008
I've started a new job with Kaiser insurance. After fifteen years with the same
wonderful doctor (she delivered my daughter - she was the doctor for the both of us) I
am weary of moving to Kaiser. The recommendations on the BPN site are a little dated
so I am wondering if anyone with Kaiser can recommend a fabulous doctor for my
daughter and I (Oakland, Walnut Creek or Marin). Thanks for the help!
Nicole
You did not mention the age of your daughter but i guess you are both
looking for an Internist? I would suggest Jackie Kiang. She is new to
Kaiser Oakland, coming from Bay Spring Women's Group in SF. She is
from UCSF Med School, has a good bedside manner and is a winner! Her
panel is open or at least it was a few weeks ago.
shoshana
I do not think Kaiser (Oakland) has family practitioners, but my
husband and I have been happy with Dr. Stella Marie Pierre in internal
medicine.
Best of luck.
monica
Nov 2007
Hi,
I noticed there weren't many responses for women GP's at Kaiser Oakland. Each
recommended doctor was only recommended once, by one individual.(Not as reassuring as
seeing multiple recs for someone) Can anyone report a good (or bad)experience with any
of the following doctors, or recommend someone else? These are the ones I'd love
feedback on: Jennifer Slovis, Kathleen Grannan,Leila El-Wakil, Gail Martin, Leslie
Brickner -Goth, or Fran Spector? I'd like to see if any doctor is recommended by more
than one person, so I'd love to encourage people to respond if they have an opinion.
abigail
I saw Leila El-Wakil for a few years and really liked her. She was a
great doctor and very kind. I only stopped seeing her because my
insurance changed with a new job.
Wendy
I've only seen Jennifer Slovis twice. I was not impressed with her at
all on the first visit. She seemed like one of those doctors who needed
to work on her bed-side manner (smart and knowledgeable but snappy). On
the second visit, she redeemed herself. I came to her with an
incredibly sensitive, emotional physical ailment (to be truthful, an
eating disorder) and she took incredible care of me. She made sure that
my physical and emotional health issues were addressed in an incredibly
supportive and caring manner and for that I have the utmost respect for
her as a physician. She might be every woman's cup of tea but she's a
straight shooter and a great doctor.
Slovis Is Alright With Me
March 2007
We recently moved to the Bay Area, and we need to find a new pediatrician for our son and a
good family practitioner for us. We are flexible on location, but Kaiser Pleasanton or
Oakland would be most convenient. It is especially important for us to find a pediatrician
who is a good listener and who doesn't make parents feel rushed during visits. Thanks!
Rebecca
We love Leslea Brickner-Goth in Oakland. She is kind, a great listener, sensitive, proactive,
very professional, knowledgeable and open minded. We can't say enough good about her. I'd
recommend her very highly.
Bonnie
Feb 2007
Does anyone have a primary care physician to recommend at Kaiser
Richmond (preferably) or Oakland? My husband isn't happy with
his current provider. The archives don't have many Kaiser
recommendations, and no recent ones. Thanks!
Sandra
I recently received a recommendation from a health care provider whom I respect.
She gave me the name Arthur Bakal. I've read his web page and he sounds
intelligent and caring. You might want to check him out.
Kaiser Oakland patient
If you call Kaiser to locate a new primary care physician, they'll give you a choice. Write
down the names and check out their web pages to ''shop'' for the best choice for you. That's
how I found Lloyd Stockey, who has turned out to be the best doctor I've ever had.
Top-knotch. Young, new/latest education, local born/raised, good values, caring, smart as a
whip, energetic, upbeat, Mr. Perfect. He is truly amazing. I wish I could bottle the
formula used for raising this wonderful person, and use it for our kids! Dr. Lloyd Stockey
Fan Club
Jan 2007
I was wondering if anybody had good or bad experience with Dr.
Denise Fuson (General Practioner). I am not sure if I should keep
her as my doctor because she seemed not to take my concerns very
seriously.Maybe I am just wrong and too sensitive ?? I've seen
her only 3 times so far. It's also impossible to talk on the
phone with her. It's always the nurse calling me back but she
can't answer my questions. Does
anybody have recommendations for a good GP in Oakland (Kaiser) anon
We just got a new internist, Shannon Garrigan, for my daughter when she turned 18.
She is new to the Kaiser system and was a little behind schedule, but she was caring,
knowledgeable and she spent a lot of time with my daughter. My daughter is at college so she
asked her to email her in a few months about her response to a medication change.
I have Dr. Slovis and my husband has Dr. Van Huynh for our general doctors and they are
wonderful and easy to reach. When a doctor's practice is full they refer you to a new doctor
and we find Kaiser docs spend more time with you than private practitioners.
Judy
Hi,
I was not pleased with my first visit w/ Dr. Fuson. I didn't find her to be a 'problem
solver.' She denied me a p.t. referral. I attended the back class she recommended, and was
told that I should make an appt. and see her again and then request p.t. etc.(I don't like
what muscle relaxants do to me, and that's the protocol at Kaiser--meds before pt) I just
haven't had the energy to see her again or switch. Meanwhile I pay chiropractors and personal
trainers and never go to kaiser (hmm...). It's on my list to switch personal physicians
(again!) and get some p.t. But I would concur that she is unsympathetic, not really a people
person, or a listener. This is based on one visit for back pain--not something traditional
medicine is very good for (which I why I wanted p.t., see above). It may be she is an able
diagnostician etc. etc.I've gotten great care from Kaiser in other departments (OB, Ortho) but
really regret that my personal physician went into management and that I'm having to shop for
another. do post if you find someone good!
anonymous
Dec 2006
Help please!!
I just found out that I need to join Kaiser and I am not happy. I need to pick a
Dr. ASAP in the Kaiser Network. I would like to find a Dr. who is fat friendly
and will not scream DIET the first time that he or she sees me. I perfer the
Oakland location and for the Dr. to be a woman(neither is a must). If you have
any good suggestions, please respond.
Thanks Jean
I have been a Oakland Kaiser member all my life and am a big
woman without any shame about it and have seen MANY drs there,
most NOT fat-phobic or preachy about weight or exercise issues.
I see Dr. Jennifer Slovis and she's a straight shooter(skinny tho
she may be). I brought the possibility that I may have an
eating-disorder and she was non-judgemental, non-preachy. She
took care of me as a person not as a problem and for that she has
my ultimate respect. I highly recommend her. Also several Nurse practioners in OB/GYN were very
supportive to
my particular needs and concerns as a big woman in both my
pregnancies(sorry forget their names-there is an exceptional
Australian or New Zealander NP, also a straight shooter who was
excellent). Don't worry about Kaiser, you can find the right dr
just for you if you're willing to try them out. You can change
primaries as many times as it takes if you need to. No one seems
to care. been there
Dec 2006
I checked the archives and am hoping for some more recent recommendations for a Kaiser primary
care doc. We had Dr. Lawrence Sirott for a few years and just LOVED him. Unfortunately he had
to retire this year for health reasons. Do you have a caring, skilled doctor at Kaiser Oakland
that you just can't say enough good things about??? Thanks!!
diana
I've been impressed with Dr. Eileen Kim in my limited
interactions with her (i'm a pretty straight forward case). She
seems caring, knowledgable and considerate. I got her when she
was pretty new to Kaiser and i don't know if she's currently
available for new patients. That is what makes it hard to find a
Kaiser doc -- getting recommendations for one that is available!
Good luck
dan h.
August 2006
Can anyone comment on their experiences with Dr. Acuna at Kaiser
Oakland? We are new to K-O and have to choose a primary care
physician. We're looking for a great listener. Thanks
j
My husband has Dr. Acuna at Kaiser Oakland and loves him. He's young, friendly, smart- and
smart enough to know when to call in a second opinion himself, as he did when D. had a mole
that changed. I accompanied him on one visit and observed that Dr. Acuna is a very good,
effective listener. (My own GP is young and smart, but I wouldn't call her friendly.)
BTW, I'm getting prenatal care at KP Oakland and it's been great. We both really feel like
we're at a small practice where our docs and the staff know us and each other
Anita
March 2005
My current physican at Kaiser is leaving his practice, and I
need to find a new GP. I've checked the archives but can't find
any recommendations for a female physician at Kaiser Oakland who
is knowlegeable about hypothyroidism, from which I suffer. I'm
in my late 40s, so I would like to see someone with a good
understanding of menopausal issues, and who understands what it
is like to busy mom of 3, who works part time.
Thanks in advance!
I checked about getting a new doctor at Kaiser Oakland and was told
that they are currently only assigning patients to male doctors. (I moved
recently, so my current doctor is in Martinez.) A doctor will take new
patients until their ''panel'' is full, and then will not take anyone else.
(Sometimes you can get around this - but don't ask me how.) All the
female doctors are already taken.
Anon
Good female physician at Kaiser, Oakland: I highly recommend my
GP, Dr. Gail Martin. Dr. Martin, in addition, to being as
competent and knowledgable as you'd want your GP to be, has
never hesitated to refer to me a specialist when I've needed it
(even when I haven't realized that I needed one!). She is also
more friendly and compassionate than most doctors I've dealt
with who tend to be more business-like. I've also found her
listening skills to be excellent, given the context that ALL
Kaiser physicians are incredibly pressed for time. I can't speak
to her experience with particular conditions however. Call
Kaiser or check out their web site for that kind of information
on the doctors.
Brenda
I checked www.permanente.net and it seems there are no female
physicians with open panels right now at the Oakland site. You
could call patient services and see if they have more
information. Any medicine doctor will be knowledgable about
hypothyroidism as this is very common and a core subject that
we study. Dr. Leslie Brickner is good and is a mom who works
part time, you could try to get on her waiting list for when
her panel opens up. Dr. Fran Spector is also very experienced
and really nice. In OB/gyn I would recommend my doctor, Dr.
Laura Minikel, she could treat your hypothyroidism and deal
with menopause concerns as well. Finally, if you can drive to
the Alameda site, I notice that Dr. Janice Azebu's panel is
open. She is very good, easy to talk to, is a mom and should
be around for a long time. Hope this helps. Female physicians
are in demand, their panels fill up fast, so keep checking
www.permanente.net to see whose panel has opened up.
Valerie
March 2005
Can anyone recommend a great Kaiser primary care physician? I looked on the
Berkeley Parents website, but didn't see anything that particularly stood out.
We (2 adults in 30's) need someone who is a real person with good listening
skills. We're especially looking for someone that won't brush off our concerns
or dismiss symptoms in lieu ordering neccesary tests. So often it seems HMO
doctors dismiss real complaints, saying we appear healthy and aren't in a high
risk group. Anyone have advice on dealing with this, either?
Thanks for the help!
Desperate for a good Doc
I really love my PCP at Kaiser Oakland - Dr. Michael Clement.
He is caring, warm and takes time to talk to me about any
issues and concerns I may have. That said, I do not call him
much and see him about once a year. He tends to be pretty busy -
not sure how open his panel is for new patients - but he is
terrific.
Happy with Kaiser
My husband and I use the same doc at Kaiser Oakland. His name is
Dr. Edward Cohen, Fabiola building, 4B (510-752-1160). We have
moved several times and still use him due to his incredible
listening skills. He was the first doc I ever had that sat
down, looked me in the eye and said, now what seems to be the
problem? He's not trying to get out the door while you are on
your list with ''one more question...''. I haven't any experience
with him regarding ''necessary tests'' or not. However, I have
gone in for both back pain and sore arms/wrists (pre-carpal
tunnel symptoms)with wanting information on how to nip it all in
the bud before I actually am in the hospital with these
problems. (ie: preventative care, which Kaiser is supposed to
specialize in). He was very caring and responsive to the fact
that I was trying to help myself before it got worse. Anyway, we
love him. I hope he is taking new patients, because he wasn't a
few years ago, but that could have changed by now. You could
give it a try though.
Love my doc!
I highly recommend Lawrence Sirrot. He fits your description to
a tee. Hope he's got openings available for you. If so, tell
him I sent you.
Alison
I am a hospital physician at Oakland Kaiser. I would recommend
either Dr. Roy Forrest or Dr. Everett Hsu. Both are personable
and very knowledgable physicians. Both currently have open
practices. I have dealt with both frequently and they are very
nice and truely concerned about their patients. You can read
about their credentials and select them online at
www.permanente.net Since panel availability varies, in the
future berkeley parents network members can go to this site to
see whose panel is open at that time and read about the
physicians online. My experience is that Kaiser physicians
order tests when they are needed and are not impeded what so
ever by the HMO. There are always risks and benefits to
consider when undergoing tests. The most important thing is
that you can talk to your doctor, and that he will listen to
your concerns and explain things to you well. The best way to
find a doctor is to schedule an appointment to meet them, if
you don't click, no hard feelings, just try out someone else
until you find the right chemistry. It's a very personal
relationship and the first person you meet may not be the right
one for you.
Valerie
Nov 2004
Can anyone recommend a primary care provider for a 50 plus male
who has just become eligible to use the Kaiser Permanente Health
Care System in Oakland. The main requirement is good
communication skills, clinical expertise and experience. No
major health concerns at this time.
Lawrence Sirrot. Can't say enough good things about him.
anon
May 2004
I am switching to Kaiser insurance for the first time, and need to find a primary care
doctor for myself, a 40 y.o. woman. It can be a man or woman, at richmond or
oakland, age not important. What I do want is someone caring, thoughtful and
respectful, who listens and who is at least open to alternatives, such as homeopathy
and acupuncture. All the listings on the website are at least a couple of years old,
and I do need someone who is still taking new patients.
thanks!
Lucia
If you are willing to consider someone other than a doctor for
your primary care, I can highly recommend Linda Franz, N.P. SHe
met all the qualifications you mentioned plus in my interactions
with her she seemed to really take her time and showed a fair
amount of insight into health problems I had (eg discussed the
possible social and emotional aspects as well as the purely
physical.) She is based at Kaiser Oakland.
April 2004
My family has just switched to Kaiser and I need to find a good
primary care physisian for myself. I'm 53, male, looking for
good diagnostician (at Kaiser Oakland) who is a good
communicator and willing to answer questions, give info and work
with patient. (This is starting to sound like a ''personals''
message!) I've seen the recs on the website, but there is only
one note more recent than 2 years old. Thanks in advance.
rg
I had Dr. Wilson Tse. He seemed very attentive (though busy) and
willing to answer many preventitive type questions. He even
called me at home when I was ill.
impressed
I am a 54 yr old male, if it helps; my physician is Dr. Ted
Tsukayama, with whom I have been very satisfied. I don't know if
he is taking new patients. Larry Sirott, recommended in 2000 on
the website, was my physician many years ago under another health
plan, and I liked him too.
good luck!
July 2002
Any recommendations for male doctors at Richmond Kaiser, first
choice or Oakland Kaiser, second choice, as primary care
physicians? My husband is 50 years old and is in need of a
primary care physician. He is in good health but would like to
find a doctor he could have confidence in should he become ill
and need medical attention.
I like my primary care MD - Dr. Hobart Edson. He seems to be very
thorough, patient, etc. He's at Richmond. I've only seen him
maybe 3 times, but was very satisfied, and got no grief about
referrals or whatever.
michael s.
I just had my first routine check-up with Dr. Chanatip
Suksang (Oakland).I found it rather shocking that he sat and
talked with me for more than fifteen minutes -before-
starting the exam (Q&A about history, habits, prompting me
about concerns), which is something I've never had happen
in my 20+ years at Kaiser; they're always in such a rush
there, but he seemed genuinely interested in finding out
what I need. Very friendly guy, and very thorough. I'm making
him my primary.
He just joined Kaiser this year (2002), so, unlike most of the
recs listed on the site (I know, I went through them all
recently), his practice isn't full yet.
Gwen
June 2003
Can anyone please recommend a general practioner or internist at Kaiser
Oakland? My husband just switched to Kaiser because he had to. Since he
likes his old doc, and HATES the Kaiser phone tree, he is extremely
disinclined to get set up with a new doc. I am gettting worried that he
will not take care of some pressing health issues unless I can get some
recommendations for specific docs. He is in his late 40's.
Thank you in advance!
worried wife
I highly recommend Dr. Lawrence Sirrott - 752-1160 - at Kaiser
Oakland, Fabiola Bldg on Howe Street. He's a good, caring doctor
who listens to questions and concerns, responds well, and
genuinely seems to like his work.
Anon.
Nov 2001
I have had Dr. Arthur Bakal as my primary doctor for several
years & really like him. I am very particular in who
I select and have had several awful docs since I moved
here. As I have worked in both clinical health & health
research for 20+ years, who "knows their stuff" is
critical. In addition, I wanted a practitioner who had
informal bedside manner and would work with me, knowing
that I also use a variety of other healing practices,
e.g. accupunture, chiropractic, etc. For instance, Dr.
Bakal referred my migraines treatment to clinician using
biofeedback (which I wanted) instead of opting only for
medications, which are cheaper and I have tried with
varying success. The only downside I found is it's a
busy practice.
Martha
Aug 2000
Both my husband and myself are looking for a personal physician at Kaiser
Oakland. Again, thanks to those who previously recommended doctors, but none
of them are taking new patients at this time!! Below is a list of those
doctors who are; most, but not all, were new to Kaiser in 1999. We are
looking for a doctor who is careful, thoughtful, accessible, will look into
something she/he doesn't know about, and isn't negative about a patient's
use of alternative medical approaches on occasion. Someone who is
particularly knowledgable about cardiac-related issues would be a plus.
Thanks!
Joan
I started seeing Jennifer Slovis last December. I've only seen
her twice, but I'm very pleased with her. She listens to you, has
good suggestions, etc. Barbara
I can Only speak to Dr Rybczynski's personal sides, she's my tenant !
She is a nice person and seems like she'd be an excellent Dr. She is great
with kids and lives close to Kaiser!?
Daniel
I want to share my experience with a female Oakland Kaiser MD I would
definitely *not* recommend. Dr. Jeannie Yip was highly recommended to both
my mom and me. We both saw her twice and found her to be cold, unfriendly,
and inattentive.
During my initiation exam, she completely ignored my charming baby and
neglected to do a breast exam until I insisted. The last straw for me came
when I was prescribed antibiotics. Dr. Yip had her nurse call to tell me
to take stronger pain medication and decongestants. When I reminded the
nurse that I was breastfeeding, she replied, "Dr. Yip says you should stop
breastfeeding." When I responded that this was not an option the nurse
said, "Dr. Yip says that you can always start again later." Not kid
friendly *and* clueless.
I, too, am in the market for a new doctor.
Karin
Hi. Several of you have asked about recommendations for primary care/General
Internists at Kaiser Oakland. I am a primary care physician relatively
new to Kaiser Oakland via UCSF. I am also the proud mother of a 3 yr old
and an 8 month old. Because I've only been at Kaiser for 1 yr, my practice
is not yet full. However, the wait for a new pt appt is 2-3 months
usually, I believe. Best chance of getting an appt with me is to call on
Fridays. If you're told I have no new pt appts, call the following Friday,
as I've been told more appts will open up each Friday. I enjoy providing
care to adults in all stages of their life, but must say it's fun to care
for parents of young children, as we have something particularly in common
over these years. I very much like having more than one family member in
my practice (i.e. partners). I also see Spanish-speaking patients. Feel free
to bring your kids to the visit if you choose! (Just no major dialogues about
me on the internet- I'm camera shy, thanks).
Tali Ziv
May 2000
General Medicine: Kathleen Grannan
Dr. Grannan is great, listens and is willing to take input from patients.
She sometimes
reaches for the presciption pad, but respects my desire to take the least
amount
of medications possible.
March 1998
Oakland Kaiser Physician recommendation:
Dr. Leila El-Wakil
Good person, good doctor and very smart. Martha
I only see women doctors/nurses, so sometimes
it takes a little longer to get an appointment.
I just signed up for a personal physician at Oakland Kaiser this year and I
saw Dr Julie Morial she was nice, and I thought she was quite thorough. She
took my family health history, gave me an exam, and sent me for a complete
blood work up, and then mailed me the results with an explanation. I was
impressed.
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