Providence Cardiology Associates - Olympia

Dr. Ghimire demonstrates a concerning lack of interpersonal and communication skills that significantly impacts the patient experience. While his clinical knowledge may be strong, his inability to manage conversations respectfully, acknowledge mistakes, or engage with patients in a professional manner creates an unnecessarily hostile environment. Rather than addressing concerns directly, he often leaves the room and relies on other staff members to de-escalate situations--an indication that his team is frequently required to compensate for his deficiencies in bedside manner and communication. These issues become even more troubling when caring for non-English-speaking patients. In my father's case, who speaks Korean and relies on me to translate during appointments, I was forced to witness Dr. Ghimire arguing and dismissing concerns while my father sat vulnerable as his patient. This behavior not only complicates communication but creates confusion, fear, and a profound lack of trust for patients who already face language barriers. A physician must be especially attentive and patient when working with individuals who depend on interpreters; unfortunately, Dr. Ghimire's conduct demonstrates the opposite. Providence staff may describe him as highly skilled from a medical perspective, but his approach to communication, cultural sensitivity, and conflict resolution falls far below the standard patients deserve. These shortcomings have real consequences--particularly for patients who cannot advocate for themselves in English--and they warrant serious review and corrective action.

I got an appointment for March 31 after numerous. attempts I wanted to have my yearly check up having, had a heart attack and stint placement I take my follow up care important. To bad this place doesn't. I showed up for the appointment, early and waited for a very very longtime. When the doctor came into the exam room and started reviewing my records, she stated I need to lower my cholesterol and loose wait, yep I know that. She said I should get an echocardiogram, I said ok. Several more weeks went by. I got the echo and waited several more weeks to hear the results, finally I called them and I was told a message was sent and should hear with in 1-2 weeks. Then waiting more WEEKS I get a response. Thank you for inquiring about the results of the Echo. We have you scheduled for a 3 month follow in July and we can talk abut your results then. Pretty much hit ceiling. Then as I am reflecting on my first bad experience with a Providence provider I realized that in my visits to the cardiology office not once did anyone even listen to my heart. There is something sadly missing from the care I received there.

I guess I'm lucky. Yes, some of my appointments have been rescheduled but that's life. Had a bad EKG and got my treatment started. Explanations were easy to understand and follow up was reasonable. Front and back staff pleasant and capable. Dr. Rossow, Amy Hiller and Dr. Sam are brilliant and easy to work with.

Stonewalled... That's what Providence Cardiology has done to me, they've stonewalled me. First, after being released from the hospital for having a heart attack, I'm told my 2 week follow up won't be until November -- it's currently the end of July. Next, I had such a severe reaction to the medication they gave me that I had to call them and ask for something else (or even a lower dose??) in which they replied that someone would call me back right away -- that didn't happen. So, I called back the following day and reported that I could no longer take the medication and needed help. Again they said someone would call me back right away -- again, didn't happen. So, I finally called my insurance company who promptly called PCA who promised they'd call me back with a new medication. I'm still waiting.

As I write this, I've been on hold for 51 minutes to speak to someone about refilling my mother's prescription. Her MyChart has incorrect info, and is unusable. She needs a doctor to send in a prescription for her heart medication. She received a letter from her doctor stating that she needs an appointment first, before the prescription can be refilled. Pharmacist states that this medication is important, and she should visit her doctor before her prescription runs out. After waiting for an extended period of time on the phone a few days ago, the representative scheduled her 4 months into the future--the next available appointment--and said they'll notify the doctor's team of her prescription. Mom has received another notice that her prescription will not be refilled until she sees the doctor. So, her important heart medication will potentially stop, which could cause adverse health issues for my mom, because of the inefficient bureaucracy at Providence Cardiology. Hopefully when someone answers this phone, I can get this corrected. Waiting...