David Lao, MD

I have seen Dr. Lao twice now. He is an excellent doctor. He listens and takes time to explain things. He is young and energetic and always has a smile on his face. Educated at the best schools. Highly recommend. The reason I did not give him 5 stars is because front desk staff is marginal. (not his assistant, but the girls who answer phones and check you in). I was left on hold for 30 minutes only to be sent back to the receptionist because after 30 minutes of holding it became 5:00pm which is their closing time. Very disrespectful of my time.

I was diagnosed with a serious valve problem but Dr Lao refused to schedule an appropriate follow up test because I had been infected with COVID a few weeks earlier. Rather than investigate the seriousness of my condition, or my COVID status, or speak to me in person, Dr Lao simply refused to schedule the test. As a result I ended up in the ER for emergency open heart surgery. I was in the hospital for 15 days for a valve replacement and aortic artery repair.

If you are looking for a cardiologist, go directly to the cardiac team at Mercy General Hospital. Top notch doctors and excellent care. They saved my life.

I am writing yet again because I am frustrated beyond words.
Dr. Lao is fine, but his nurse/asst., Rena absolutely will not return your phone call. The phone-answering staff are nice enough (no raves). They say they'll notify Rena for a return call to you, then, nothing happens.
I've been calling for 2 weeks for 'next steps' information re: heart surgery. My medical insurance even called and left a request for her to return a call to me. Nothing.
An MD's office staff are your only link to the doctor. You can have the greatest doctor in all the land, but if his/her staff regards you as too insignificant to call, well,....?
In today's medical environment, we are told we must be our own advocate. I didn't know it would be a full time job.

Dr.Lao is a very kind gentle revered Dr. My surgery was super smooth and easy. I totally trust him.

Great doctor. He takes very good care of my mother. Very nice and caring. Thanks Doctor Lee.

Dr. Lao is extremely kind, compassionate and an excellent interventional cardiologist. I should know as I am an RN working with all types of physicians. He presented his findings to me with concern and explained everything in terms everyone can understand. My experience, although rather alarming for me because of possible surgery, was made very relaxing. I would recommend Dr. Lao with high marks on all aspects of what a patient seeks in a physician-compassion, expertise and genuine concern.