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Robert J Epstein, MD
Rating Details »
Category: Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Neighborhoods: Civic Center/Tenderloin, Union Square490 Post St
Ste 1152
(between Powell St & Mason St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 986-0113
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
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46 reviews for Robert J Epstein, MD
I had moved to SF in January from Washington D.C. and I was a little skeptical about finding the right doctors here since I've been seeing the same doctors back home literally since before I was even born. SOoo I yelped. haha.
The place is pretty small... I sort of felt like I was in a closet, but I wasn't uncomfortable. If you don't feel comfortable in small spaces, you might not enjoy his location very much.
The receptionist was nice and there was no wait. I just had to fill out the paperwork, pee in a cup, and then I was in the exam room.
Dr Epstein was very kind and he explained everything beforehand: what we had planned for the visit, what we'll be talking about, blah blah blah. He was very gentle and quick and he explained what he was doing so he wasn't just feeling around down there in silence, which is always the most awkward thing ever.
After the exam I got dressed and met him in his office. He told me he'd call me after my pap came back if there were any problems, but everything looked fine and I'd see him next year.
He did call me back! As it turns out I have HPV :( but he told me not to worry about it because it should go away on its own but we have a followup appointment in Nov.
Overall it was a rather pleasant visit and I really like him and I'll definitely continue to see him as long as I'm here.
And I'd just like to say, Laure D., by law, male obgyns have to ask you if you would like a female present during your examination. It's not for her to do the examination, it's just so you're not alone in the room, naked, with a man checking out your vagina. It has nothing to do with you being a lesbian.
He is as old as my grandfather so he may not realize that telling a new female patient that she her blood pressure is a little high but that it is probably due to the fact that I am slightly overweight and could lose a few pounds does not go over too well. Yes...I understand that I could stand to drop the extra poundage that I have put on lately but I am pretty sure there are other tactics to go about this topic. Plus...he pushes the Nuvaring like he receives sales commissions from it...even after I told him three times that it was not my thing...he still looked at me like I was crazy for not trying it..
Definitely will continue my search for my long term gyno....
After reading all the 5 star reviews, my experience with Dr. Epstein was a mixed bag, and I don't think I'll be back.
Pros:
- He is indeed grandfatherly, if that's your thing. It's not really mine.
- He throws free birth control at you, like nobody's business.
Cons:
- He makes you sign an arbitration agreement just to see him.
- He asked if I wanted the receptionist present during the exam and when I said sure, he appeared kind of offended.
- He did a urine test and charged my insurance for it, even though it was unnecessary because I had just gotten that test done with my physical.
- There were some insurance billing issues that I've not had with any other doctors, and the receptionist was not very helpful (told me to call back when the bookkeeper was in, which is evidently rarely).
- Told me he'd contact me within a week with my test results. After waiting for 2 weeks, I called and the receptionist just told me everything was "ok." Did not get to speak with Dr. Epstein, no discussion of results, nothing.
Dr. Epstein was recommended to me by a very close friend and my mom and i have to say, 5 stars all the way. This was the first time i've been to a male gyno and I thought the worst, but surprisingly, he was gentle, nice and to the point. The exam was short (which was nice) and pleasant (well, as pleasant as a paps can get) and Dr. Epstein was super nice. Seemed very knowledgeable and had a sense of humor, which is always a nice bonus.
One major upside, I felt like he had all the time in the world for me.
Deff give him a try.
I first saw Dr. Epstein 9 years ago and he has always given me the highest quality care. He is patient, thorough, kind, non-judgemental, and understanding. I cannot say enough good things about him. Not only is he the best gynecologist (by far) that I have ever had, he is the best doctor I have had. He's older so I am afraid he will retire soon and I won't be able to find a good replacement. Also, he does not deliver babies so as I approach baby-having time I will need to find a new doctor.
I accidental exclaimed to my obgyn Dr. Epstein, "Now, onto the main event!" when it was time for the "serious" part of the visit.
He laughed a little and said, "Well, I prefer to call it part two of the exam." I was just so comfortable around him my true personality came out. OOps.
(Any doctor that gets you in and out in less than an hour, makes you laugh, knows his stuff, and makes sure you are helped in any way he can is five stars from me.)
This guy is about as relaxing, kind and cool as you can imagine. I've had pelvic exams that hurt pretty bad in the past, causing pain for the remainder of the day, so I have been nervous about gyno visits ever since. Dr. Epstein made me feel so at ease! I can't rave highly enough about my visit, and here are reasons why:
-I was the only patient there! In and out, so to speak, in no time. The secretary was very nice and promptly processed me. In fact, they were waiting on me to get back with my pee.
-Bedside manner is second to none. His humor and conversation is equal parts friend and professional.
-I wanted the patch for birth control, but he steered me away from it saying it caused breast tenderness and nausea. Yeah, next! I'm glad he let me know about those side effects.
-The exam was thorough, gentle and fast.
-After the exam we went in his office where he asked if there was anything at all I wanted to ask or talk about. He gave me a month's free BC, and we discussed the HPV vaccine at length.
HIGHLY recommended. If any stranger dude has to dig around in your vagina, this is the one you want to do it.
Ok - new decor....faux alligator stools and ikea leather chairs! Cheers to upgrades!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/20/2009
I've been going to Dr. Epstein for 5 years and have had nothing less than a stellar experience with… Read more »
Gotta love a gyno that treats you like a person and not just another vag.
Dr. Epstein is the best. He is down-to-Earth, funny, extremely knowledgeable, and, most importantly, he warms up the speculum!
I found Dr. Epstein on Yelp over a year ago, and the first time I went to his office he had lawn furniture in the lobby. Yelp has been kind to the good doctor, and the waiting area has had a much needed update to upholstered chairs and decent mags. Not that I've ever sat in them: usually Dr. Epstein is ready for me as soon as I walk in the door!!
For anyone wondering, Dr. Epstein prescribes the Nuva ring, and if you are nice he may even slide you a free one.
After reading all the 5-star rave reviews about Dr. Epstein, I unfortunately have to say that I was a bit disappointed overall.
The Bad:
Walking into the office for the first time, I got a detached feeling from Dr. Epstein. He didn't introduce himself and didn't give me any background on his experiences. He was pretty abrupt with his questions and it was a very "just-going-through-the-motions" exam. Additionally, I had so many questions for the doctor, but he seemed to just brush aside my concerns/questions with very little explanation. I felt like he really didn't care to get to know me or where I was coming from.
He also really pressured me to be on birth control. I kept bringing up the fact that I needed more information regarding the options that were available since I didn't know much about the different types and I was concerned about the side effects, but he just shoved some pills in my hand and ushered me out of his office (though, they were two months worth of pills for free...which was very nice).
Lastly, I was put on antibiotics that completely reacted negatively with me, so I had to return to Dr. Epstein two days later, for another check-up. It was at this time that he actually went through the whole process of thoroughly checking my culture sample to make sure things were ok. I was put on different medication, which fortunately worked. While I understand that a correct diagnosis can't always be done on the first try, what I didn't appreciate was being billed for the follow-up again! Most doctors I know would give that follow-up on a complimentary basis, especially since it was only two days after the first one, and was due to an improper/not thorough initial check-up on his part.
The Good:
I can say that Dr. Epstein is sensitive about malpractice, so I did appreciate him asking me if I wanted a female attendant in the room with me during the exam to make sure nothing questionable was going on (I didn't need one, but it was nice to know that he was respectful enough to ask). I also felt that he did know a lot about the science and profession, even though I did feel like he was a bit reluctant to share that knowledge with me in regards to my questions.
He is careful during the actual exam and is not too rough when he's using the speculum.
For my second visit, I really did appreciate him calling me and scheduling the follow-up for that very day, and then insisting that I call him when my medication was finished, to ensure that it was working properly. Also, this time, he was he was a little more patient and nicer, though I still felt like he was anxious to have the appointment finished as soon as possible.
One last thing is that he's pretty good about knowing what insurance will cover and what they won't. He's a qualified doctor in my Health Care network which is super convenient, and he's in a good location in downtown SF.
All-in-all, I guess this was an average visit to a gyn, though I was really hoping for an experience like all the other ones that the rest of the people are talking about. We shall see whether it improves in the future...at which time, I'll write another review...
I went to Dr. Epstein after reading reviews on yelp and he is as good as the hype. He was friendly, considerate, funny, and listened well. He explained everything he was going to do in the procedure, and offered to have the female secretary come in since it was the first time meeting each other to make me more comfortable. He warmed up the metal tools, and it was over so quickly i barely blinked. I even got blood work done and it was fast and painless.
He gave me a free nuvaring, and wrote me a prescription for the entire year! When I called the next week to make sure my blood work was normal, he spoke to me personally, instead of getting results from his assistant.
I would strongly recommend him! I'm stickin' with this guy!
Just wanted to add another 5-star vote.
Dr. Epstein looks you in the eye, asks questions, waits for the answers, thinks, responds. I can't think of the last time I visited a doctor who didn't make me feel like I was on a speed date. Dr Epstein is a warm person with a dry sense of humor that assumes you're not an idiot. I'm only sorry it took me so long to find him.
After all the reviews, I was expecting the best experience.
When the doctor took a sample for my pap smear I felt a pinch, then had some bleeding. He apologized immediately, but it definitely scared me away. For as many pap smears I've had over the years, I can say that has never happened.
Update, a good experience, super fast, Dr. Epstein pointed out things other Gyns have neglected to, maybe because english is his first language unlike so may doctors nowadays. His little office seems to churn out happy routine visits like a factory. Except for the crappy parking situation in the area, about as good as it gets.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/27/2008
I just called to make a first time appointment and Dr. Epstein picked up the phone himself! He said… Read more »
I am not surprised at the 5 star ratings for Dr. Epstein. He really is great, attentive, and professional. however, I'm disturbed because now i know all of the the faces of all the vaginas he's been through. and now you know mine. awesome.
I've never gone to a gynecologist before. I always went to my family doctor until I moved to SF. I barely make a move anymore without checking Yelp! Obviously, I had to go to Dr. Epstein based on all the glowing reviews.
Gynecological exams are something I dread...thinking about, talking about, experiencing--I'm sure most of us do! So, I've nothing much to add, except to say, Yes, Yelp steered me right once again. Thanks, y'all!
I just got back from a first-time visit with Dr. Epstein (after reading about him on Yelp). He's great!!! He's thorough, has a great sense of humor and I didn't feel the least bit uncomfortable saying that I wanted to start using the pill and having different tests.
When he asked who referred him, I told him I found his name on Yelp. He told me 5 out of 7 new patients last week found him the same way. He said "I'm like the Ritz of gynecology." Loved it.
As someone who used to really only feel comfortable going to female gynecologists, I'm excited that I just found my great new doctor that is relatively close to my office!
At 23, I've already visited over 5 different gynecologists-- all women. I had dealt with stiff-fingered assaults on my ovaries and prying questions about my sexual partners. I had also met gentle, friendly doctors who were patient when I had my cervical biopsy. I know, at this point, how important it is to have a skilled, friendly doctor.
Although I was initially hesitant about seeing a male gynecologist (having feared that they might, like some other male doctors I'd seen, be dismissive or unsympathetic), I am now elated to have found Dr. Epstein.
Robert Epstein is the most polite, warm, experienced, and understanding gynecologist that I have ever been to. I hope that I will be able to see him for years to come.
(And for those who have to deal with pain-in-the-ass insurance-- there is a bloodwork lab ON-SITE, so you're far more likely to get your tests covered by your provider. Amazing!)
Since my company recently did our major merger, I found myself with new insurance. No more Kaiser. The first thing I did was look up my old OB/GYN in the directory. Yes! His office accepts my new insurance. I promptly made an appointment. He is one of favorite doctors. Down to earth and very cool.
Always pleased to have the clean bill of health too.
I'm new to town, and needed a gynecologist that was covered by my new health insurance (Anthem Blue Cross HMO). With all the positive reviews here on Yelp, I decided to give Dr. Epstein a try. I was worried he'd be booked up, but was pleasantly surprised that he could accomodate me on very short notice.
Of the 3 gynecologists I've had, Dr. Epstein is hands down the best. At first I was a bit unsure if I'd be comfortable seeing a man (my previous have been female), but he's extremely professional and I felt I could openly discuss my "womanly issues." Just today, I called to get a prescription filled and he personally returned my call and ensured it would be taken care. He also reminded me to schedule my pap smear.
His staff are also great to work with. 5 stars.
Dr. Epstein is the best gynecologist a woman could ask for.
He is old. As in, mid-70's. That means he's been doing this for a long time and has seen everything. And that means he is no drama. Incredibly comforting, low key, just a nice, gentle man. Nothing fazes him. If I'm ever nervous about something, he diffuses that fear with an innocent "been there, done that" shrug. But not a disinterested one. Just "you'll be all right, and that's that".
He just makes going to the gyno easy and pleasant. And importantly, he never lectures (yes, my old gyno once went into a 10-minute tirade about the importance of condoms. Come on, I took sex ed!). His bedside manner is calm and approachable: you can talk to him about anything and there is no judgment - just honest, no-stress advice.
More good things: his hours are by appointment so you can always see him when it's convenient for you, if you call the office he will actually return your call quickly, his office lady is the sweetest, and he accepts a wide range of insurance.
It is so nice to not dread going to the gyno.
Continuing on the health kick...
This is definitely not my favorite thing to check off the list... but done it must be and I'd procrastinated enough. Naturally I found the dear Dr. Epstein on Yelp.
I was able to get an appointment from the friendly receptionist within my short time frame - a big plus as many other places seemed to be booked out for months.
The small and quiet office felt almost more like a living room and I was greeted by the good doc himself (as his secretary was out). Any and all questions were answered and I almost felt bad I didn't have more as Dr. Epstein was very interested in making sure I felt taken care of (not always an easy thing to find in the medical field). I whisked in and out in no time but didn't feel rushed at all and, in fact, had plenty of opportunity to speak with the doctor (in his actual office even!)
Yes, Dr. Epstein, you are like a five star hotel on Yelp.
Dr. E: "So, how did you hear about us?"
L: "Oh...online........"
Dr. E: "Online? On Yelp?"
L: "Yes, as a matter of fact, it was on Yelp!"
Dr. E: "I'm a celebrity on Yelp. Lots of 5 stars."
L: *laughs* Yes, you really are...that's why I figured it was a good choice..."
Dr. E: "I'm like the Mick Jagger of gynecology..."
L: *smiles*
Dr. E: "Well, you know...except I can't sing...but then again...Mick Jagger can't sing either...it's just...loud."
I was half an hour late to this appointment and expected a rushed, harried doctor and a crowded waiting room.
What I found was a great doctor willing to take time to talk about my previous medical history and offer a full consultation. When I mentioned a history of Thyroid issues, he even felt my throat... Um, he's a GYNECOLOGIST!
I loved his old fashioned politeness - he's wonderfully respectful and upfront without making you feel uncomfortable. I highly recommend him.
I give Dr. Epstein five stars, even though I had to walk through the hall way carrying my own urine -- the bathroom is not inside the office.
I heart Dr. Epstein! Funny, calm, cool and makes a not so pleasant procedure not so bad after all. Also, you'll be in and out of there in a jiffy (no pun intended).
First off, yes - it is rather strange that I'm reviewing my gynecologist. But, I found him through Yelp and I only find it fair that I give back a little of what Yelp gave my neunie (pronounced Knew-Knee. A childhood term my mother created as a substitute for 'vagina')
The funniest part - yeah because having your legs spread and your woman bits evaluated is hilarious - was the frog poster. I cracked up and got distracted by it for a good ten minutes. I might be a cheap laugh but I like that Dr. Epstein went there and made a gyno joke.
He's basically the best gynecologist out there. Yelp and my fellow women really pulled through for me on this one.
Talking to a doctor is never the most comfortable or welcoming thing, but someway, somehow, Dr. Epstein makes you feel like you are chatting it up over a latte - a latte of metal stir-ups, yes, but uncomfortable? No.
I was hesitant about going to a male gynecologist because I had seen one before and he made me feel like I was being molested. Thankfully, I'm happy to report the exact opposite of Dr. Epstein. He gives off an air of familiarity that easily soothes my white-coat-phobia and actually made me feel like asking him more questions.
I needed to get my annual in order to continue my BC and, of course, I thought about this at the last possible moment. His funny receptionist was very friendly and got me in within the week.
I had never experienced that before coming from a much larger, much less personal doctor that needed months of planning to even get a glimpse of and would typically hand me off to other doctors in her practice. This personalized experience with Dr. Epstein was what really sold me.
I didn't completely hate going to the gynecologist this time around and for me, that's the best thing.
I've only been to Dr. Epstein once, but I think I'll keep him. All the ladies out there know how uncomfortable it is to feel rushed or judged by your gyno. You already KNOW that sleeping with that cute girl (in my case) was probably a mistake... you just didn't figure it out until the next morning. So you don't want to go to your gyno and have him lecture you about it too.
It was easy to get an appointment... Dr. Epstein has a lovely bedside manner... he takes my insurance.... and the whole thing where you sit in his office for a couple minutes afterwards and he asks you if you have any questions, well let's just say we all know not every Dr. does that.
Plus he has really soft hands.
It's true Dr. E is a no B.S. - call 'em like he see's 'em, type of Doc. and I adore him for it.
He's a perfect gentleman, a nerve calmer and a straight shooter.
Super old school, but in a good way. He'll help you up from the table and take the time to sit down with you in his office after each and every visit to make sure all your questions have been answered.
I mean honestly, how many of us can say we've got our OBGYN's cell phone number and he always picks up. Nuff said :)
like another reviewer, I am not usually in the practice of rating my gynecologists on line but because i found him on yelp, i feel compelled to add to it. Dr. Epstein is amazing. I've never felt so comfortable in a doctors office, let alone a gynecologist. He is warm and funny and very very good at what he does. He's up front, answers all your questions, and somehow makes you feel simultaneously protected and looked after and also totally in charge and self sufficient. i feel totally safe with him. Best of all, he's not just kind in person, he's kind in practice: he actually runs the speculum under warm water before he uses it so it isn't so cold and uncomfortable. i mean good lord people. you just want to hug him when you're done. whens the last time you heard someone say that about a gynecologist.
I cannot say enough about Dr. Epstein. He puts your mind completely at ease (especially when it's time for "Part 2" of the exam - yes, he said that to me too!), he is courteous, professional and his dry sense of humor definitely helps. He also answers your questions thoroughly (in his office after the exam, instead of having you think of everything you wanted to say in the paper dress with your feet in the stirrups). Of course he will answer your questions anytime during your visit, but it is nice to have a little added sense of dignity.
He has obviously been doing this for some time, so he is able to immediately tell you if you "look" good or if you should have any concerns. I am sure he has seen it all, so it's nice to know there are doctors like him who perform the exam and run the tests, but can also tell you if there are any immediate issues. I don't think they make them like that anymore.
I saw him for the first three years after my arrival in SF (based upon rave reviews from a friend of mine), then needed to go to CPMC for insurance purposes. I am happily back as his patient and I highly recommend him to any woman needing or wanting to change to a new doctor.
Added bonus: I called on a Monday and his receptionist offered me a Tuesday or Wednesday appointment. I definitely don't miss the days of having to wait 6 months before seeing the doctor.
haha yes, dr. epstein is already a 5-star hotel at yelp.
but who would have known, really-- that my gyno of choice would be an 80 year old white man? but here's how it is: i've seen young, seemingly hip women, who have given me god awful exams. girls know the story-- the overly prying questions, the judgmental commentary on what they do hear, and the discomfort and pain of a badly executed exam.
but dr. epstein. he's fantastic. he was knowledgeable and ready and compassionate without being overly friendly (always concerning with gynos.) besides-- with how ever many decades of practice, 10 vaginas a day, he's seen it all. my modesty gives him a high five.
Dr. Epstein is as good as it gets.
I spent the whole day worrying away about my appointment, cause I'm really scared of doctor's offices, I even had to have my boyfriend drive me there because I was such a nervous wreck.
Finally the fateful hour came and we arrived at the building.
The downstairs lobby for some reason reminded me of the Haunted Mansion.. maybe not quite as scary.
When we went up to the doctor's suite, I was surprised that it was a cute little intimate, sunny room. The waiting room, exam room, and office are all very sunny and quaint, and I felt much more at ease than I had epected to (even though I read all the rave reviews on yelp, which is how I found him in the first place.)
Dr. epstein is extremely personable. He offered to have his receptionist come in, but I didn't feel uncomfortable at all. He has a very un-imtimidating bedside manner.
At one point he was going to take my blood pressure and I warned him that I might pass out and he told me I would be fine because I'd already be laying down anyway, and told me he would also try not to pass out.
It's just that kind of silly humor that makes you feel OK around someone.
PLUS, he gave me a free nuvaring! And told me where I could find them for a little cheaper (costco, in case you're wondering).
Finally! A gyn's office where you don't feel like you're part of a cattle call (GG Ob/Gyn....) Dr. E. has a great sense of humor (see frog poster in the exam room), was very attentive, and spent a lot of time going over my health history and asking lots of questions. After the exam I actually (and you won't believe this!) got to sit in his office while he wrote out some lab slips and asked me if I had any further questions. You know, like doctors used to do? He even gave me a call regarding my lab results.
This is one good doctor...he really listens and has been a real advocate. When I've had problems with my insurance (who hasn't?), he's been patient in explaining how to proceed with them. I can't tell you how many doctors in San Francisco I've gone to in the last 25 years that are barely worth a star. He's the first one in a long while that I've trusted and felt was there for me. Thank you Dr. Epstein, and thank you to the friendly receptionist as well! Good to be treated like a human being instead of another number.
Great experience! Quick, efficient and friendly appointment person. Simple office - just an office manager, doctor and me. Loved the easy going and helpful nature of Dr. Epstein. He really didn't seem to be in a hurry and was able to address all questions and concerns. I couldn't believe that I was in and out in less than an hour! What a concept! I found Dr. E. through Yelp - he got (and deserves) lots of stars!
First of all the location is awesome, I even get to sneak into Tiffany on my way out just to treat myself for having been through the exam.
I liked the building and there is a nice view from the office. The receptionist is knowledgeable.
The examination room was warmed up so I did not have to freeze in my paper gown.
The doc came in and was very friendly and as I was used to be rushed I blurted out all my questions in the first 5 seconds of meeting him. I did not know he would actually take the time to invite me into his office and give me info about HPV vaccines and answer any other questions I may have.
I felt bad I run out of questions in the first 5 seconds.
The examination was very comfortable, no problem at all although I never had a man as an obgyn.
Everything was great, he takes my insurance.
I guess I won't be original if I just tell you how mad cool the visit was. Dr. Epstein makes an impression of a doctor that has already proved what he had to prove and right now is just really enjoying what he is doing, as well as his patient. Since the problem I got to his office with was rather a serious one, I felt very reassured thanks to his "let's not panick yet" attitude. He was extremely professional and very likeable at the same time. He took his time to help me get rid of all the insecurities and doubts I may have had.
The only reason I give him 4 and not 5 stars is because I had to wait quite a while for my pap results to get back. But then again, once they did come he explained everything to me over the phone. Love him!!
He is awesome. I would never categorize him as "old" even though physically I guess he is older than me. *smile* He is sharp, clever, gentle, empathic with a wry sense of humor... just take a look at the frog picture on the exam room wall. No read it again... get it? *grin*
He is definitely "hip" in the sense that he is truly comfortable with himself and therefore completely at ease around you and makes you feel comfortable. His humor can be delightfully irreverent, dissolving taboo and making you feel instantly comfortable with your body, your questions and basically telling him anything that is on your mind. He is the most non-judgemental and respectful person you will ever meet.
I have been around the block a few times myself... and I can tell he is thorough, knowledgeable and astute. Even though I am "only" in my late 30s I have have dense breasts and he sent me down for a mamo. Not with any kind of drama or attitude that would put me ill-at-ease (and I can be a hypo) but in a way that made me feel that everything was going to be okay (which it was) but also that he wasn't afraid to actually order tests to rule things out, unlike some docs who are hamstrung by fear of insurance backlash. He gave me no bullshit advice about birth control and later... an IUD (woo hoo! I love it! - I can't do hormones) You can say... um I had an "oops" situation... or you can request an STD battery...and his response is completely non-judgemental and will without blinking an eye take whatever steps necessary to allay whatever fears you express. He treats you like an adult, shows you respect and answers all your questions thoroughly. Never will his body language indicate that he needs to get going before you are ready to leave. Never. And he will hang at the desk and chat with you as you are leaving. He and his assistant are everything you want a doctor's visit to be.
In a nutshell he is immensely competent, kind, knowledgeable, easy-going, wise (on many levels), thorough (won't over- or under- test) and funny as hell.
My one complaint is that he is OB/GYN. (though he is also my primary doc) I wish he were also a family med/ped so my son could go to him!
Christiane
The annual gyno / pap smear appointment is super duper fun. Speculums, plastic spatulas, oven mitts for your feet and the always humiliating walk from the public bathroom with a cup of your own steaming urine in hand always makes for a good time. So the key to making this all tolerable is a good doctor. Dr. Epstein is not only good, but his gift of putting his patients at ease, dry wit and no BS attitude keeps me coming back. I have gone through every type of birth control imaginable until I found my savior (I have three letters for you ladies and that is I.U.D.) and nary a complaint from the always patient and helpful Dr. Epstein and his absolutely LOVELY assistant. I have been through a fair number of gynos - from the 'drive through window' variety to the 'judge and jury' - but nevermore. I can now walk through my gyno's door with head held high and a spring in my step (but not too springy lest I spill the aforementioned urine).
This man is the best gynecologist I've ever had. Melissa B. gives a really accurate description. I went to Dr. Epstein after a really bad experience with planned parenthood, and he put all my worst fears to rest. I've been to a decent amount of gynecologists and it is always been something i dread, but this time I was relaxed enough not to freak out completely. Still not something I enjoy having to do, but If you have to get it done (and you do...) Dr. Epstein will make you feel totally comfortable.
