Gates Vascular Institute (GVI)

Writing this while waiting for my father to have a very simple test done. His appointment was at noon, it's currently 6:35pm and they haven't even started yet. If you don't have any availability... DONT SCHEDULE PEOPLE. Very simple concept.

My nurses and surgery doctor were excellent. Dr. Ashish Bhatia made sure that I understood to newer procedure to be used for my coronary ablation. One of his nurse practitioners Renee spent good time explaining some of the technical aspects of my upcoming surgery. My nurse in my room, Tamara was easily the best nurse I have ever had in my life. Her level of professionalism and her personal approach showed just how good she really is. Lateefa and Cortland were also better than average. They made sure that I was as comfortable as possible. I was really impressed.

Parking (valet): A+ Facility: A+ Admissions: A+ Nursing Skills & Bedside Manner: A+ Doctors Skills & Bedside Manner: A+ Scheduling: F Arrived at my appointed time at 10am for a 12 noon angiogram. Very impressed with the facility and the nurses, all friendly and everyone knew what they were doing. I was prepared for my procedure quickly, but by 1pm I thought they forgot about me. Finally got into my procedure after 2pm and it lasted about 25 minutes. Afterwards, got a nice private room for rest and observation and was released at 6:15pm. Total time: 8 hours and 15 minutes. One of my fellow patients said he had already been waiting 6 hours for his procedure and one of the nurses explained that long waits were typical. Bottom line: If you're going to Gates, you'll be well served, but just mentally prepare yourself to be there all day, or more. The scheduling, or over-scheduling, seems to be Gates only flaw and needs to be dramatically overhauled. (This is confirmed by other reviews.) There is simply no reason these days to keep patients waiting an inordinate amount of time. While long wait times are "normal" in the health care industry, Gates has an opportunity to distinguish itself using technology that is readily available. With A.I., the hospital could easily track each patient's scheduled time vs. wait time to make sure everyone is being cared for expeditiously. On the bright side, while you're waiting, you can console yourself by knowing that you're in good hands and getting the best of care.

Yesterday, I had to have a cardiac catheterization done at the GVI. I was notified by my doctor on Thursday that my apt was on Monday, and that I needed to have some tests before I arrived. I was not in Buffalo, and not due to get back until late Friday night. My flight was cancelled and I was not able to get my pre testing done before Monday. I showed up on Monday and everyone was so accommodating. I wasn't in the waiting room for more than 3 minutes before they took me to my room. Within 30 min I had my blood drawn, EKG done, and was ready for my procedure. The staff was invested in the outcome of my test, and showed such empathy. The nurses, nurse practitioner, and doctors made me feel as if I was the only patient that they were taking care of. I cannot thank the wonderful staff at Gates Vascular Institute for providing superior care, coupled with compassion. Whatever the leadership team is doing to foster this healing environment, please keep it up.... I will be referring any of my friends and family that may need your services in the future. Buffalo General and the GVI offer world class services that make me proud to be a Buffalonian. Sincerely, Rich Raffule

It is not often we hear good things about anyone anymore,so i had to put this out there... We are back here at Buff general today for our moms 2 procedure. We were here last week monday and had to be back here today for her 2nd procedure. The Dr's ,the nurses , the NP(mary) -honestly every person working here last week monday and today were all so nice! Very friendly,very nice drs and staff! Our family appreciates all the help,all the caring staff that helped our mom! We will forever be grateful for all the care,love this hospital gave to our mom! Xoxo.. Thank you always from the bottom of our hearts