Patient
I called this office four times before finally reaching someone (a woman named Kate or Katy or maybe Tate). I was calling because I was experiencing serious side effects from a medication, and my primary care doctor advised me to contact my cardiologist's office for guidance. Instead of being placed through to the doctor or even a nurse, this staff member started giving me medical advice herself , including medication I could buy at the pharmacy, and what to stop taking and what to do if I didn't improve in a few days. When I asked if she was a nurse or consulting with the doctor, she admitted she didn't, yet continued to give instructions as if she were qualified. I understand that speaking directly to the doctor is not always possible , but at minimum she should have consulted with her. Dr. Balulad is extremely knowledgeable, she is very compassionate, which seems to make me sad that her staff would represent her like this. I was shocked that someone without medical licensing or authority (at least consulting with the MD) felt it was appropriate to direct my care and make medication recommendations. This is a serious matter of patient safety and professionalism. At the very least, I expect a licensed nurse or the physician to review my symptoms and advise me, not an administrative staff member who openly says she is not a nurse. Patients deserve better communication and proper medical oversight, not "Google-style" advice from unqualified staff.