I was with the OBs for my first and second trimester and met some great staff and doctors, and some that I didn’t feel comfortable with. I absolutely loved our nurse Lauren, and was so happy to have her at our very first appointment, and I also really loved all of the ultrasound techs that we met, but I switched providers because I wasn’t feeling comfortable with the doctors that I met. I asked the first OB we met to give me an idea of the birthing culture at the practice, and to give me some insight regarding things like the vibe in the rooms and whether or not I could birth off of my back if it was safe, etc. She responded by telling me that rather than getting into details, she’d give me a blanket statement, which was “Whatever we do, we’re doing it FOR you not TO you.” and “Your safety is our responsibility, so it’s our house our rules.” That statement ‘Our house, our rules’ struck with some irony, as right behind her was a poster that said, ‘My body, my choice.’ And I wondered, “So which one is it?” She then went on to tell me a story about how women who wear their own bras to birth should reconsider, because it’s a bummer to have your pretty bra cut off. She also told me not to worry about touring the birthing facility in my second trimester, because she wouldn’t want me to get freaked out by how medical it looks. I’m going to be 40 next month and I’ve worked in clinics, and I found her answers to be obnoxiously patronizing and disappointingly dismissive. I felt like I was being talked down to, and none of my questions were even remotely answered. At our next appointment, we told another OB that we were switching providers. This OB became short with us and told us that there’s nothing that other provider can do that they can’t, that hopefully I don’t just wind up back at the OB with complications, and “I guess we need to figure out your billing now.” And with that, she walked out without saying goodbye. We didn’t have a chance to meet every OB, and I’m sure that many of them have a great bedside manner, and I have no doubt that every one of them are extremely capable. Many of my friends having nothing but wonderful things to say about their birth experience with Four Corners OBGYN, but for this very personal event, we felt more comfortable switching to a provider who could be more personal, where my questions were answered and my preferences were heard and honored.

After a very difficult weekend due to a sudden health issue, I called the on-call doctor, and they got me in for my ER follow-up first thing the next morning. Dr. Garcia was incredibly patient, informative, and truly advocated to get me the care I needed — and it all happened so quickly! The ultrasound technician was extremely pleasant and kind, and everyone at the outpatient surgery center where Dr. Garcia performed the procedure was exceptional. Dr. Garcia also did a wonderful job keeping my husband informed and updated throughout the process. Although this was an extremely unpleasant situation, I am truly grateful for the entire team that took care of me with such compassion, care, and just the right amount of humor to ease the stress.

I can’t tell who was happier about the results of the past three months—me or Dr Tod. She was so excited to hear my report about how I am feeling after a few months with a new hormone regimen (I am feeling AWESOME!!!). She spent time really listening and celebrating with me. I remember feeling so seen and cared for when I had my babies at 4-corners…and now that I am in this new phase of life, I still feel that same level of care. Thanks for helping me feel awesome, Dr Tod! I am so grateful!!!