Dr. Ryan Knopper, MD

I left this Nor CAL emergency department visit feeling dismissed rather than cared for. The physician showed very little curiosity about my symptoms or their possible causes and seemed disproportionately focused on substance use, despite being clearly informed that this was not a risk factor and that there was no relevant history.What was most concerning was the lack of reassurance or meaningful explanation regarding my symptoms. I expected a more thorough assessment, including questions that demonstrated an interest in understanding what I was experiencing. Instead, the interaction felt judgmental and narrowly focused on ruling out substance use rather than evaluating the symptoms themselves.An emergency department visit can be stressful and frightening. Patients deserve to feel heard, respected, and taken seriously. I hope this physician will take greater care to approach patients with curiosity, avoid assumptions, and provide clearer communication and reassurance.