Howard G Altman, MD

Howard G Altman, MD
1342 COTTMAN AVE PHILADELPHIA, PA 19111
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Consumer Feedback

(3 Reviews)
Service
4 star average for Service
Expertise
4 star average for Expertise
Staff
4.5 star average for Staff
Recommended
5 star average for Recommended
I am 70 years old and have gone to this same urologist for around 30 years, satisfied with a quick visit, urinating in a cup and finger in the butt exam. But one time I had a slightly elevated PSA (2.9)within normal range (4.0). The PSA was retaken and went down slightly to 2.8.
The doctor pronounced that he would do a biopsy of my prostate, even though everything else was normal including healthy prostate on digital exam. He did not tell me anything about risks or pain and bleeding from this procedure. When I Googled it, I found out that this is a painful process where they stick multiple needles between your anus and your scrotum. Pain and bleeding are common. When I refused to have a biopsy at that time, he had a nasty attitude that I dare question him .
I went for a second opinion to another urologist recommended to me. The new doctor had a 4K score test done. This is a simple blood test that has IDENTICAL results as the biopsy. It overwhelmingly showed that the probability of cancer was extremely low.
The new doctor also said that, as a rule, doctors should not jump to a biopsy with just an elevated PSA reading that is in normal range. They should monitor it, since many things can elevate the PSA that have no relation to cancer.
Since that time over a year ago, I have had 3 PSA tests done and
my results are back to normal ( 1, 1 and 0.9).
I am so happy to have an awesome new doctor who is aware of newer of alternatives and uses judgement to provide appropriate care without subjecting the patient to extreme painful and bloody procedures.
I can't help but wonder how many unnecessary painful biopsies have been performed over the years. I wrote this review to help prevent them.
by Steve K xxx.xxx.193.183
October 25, 2022
Were the staff members able to answer your questions?
Yes, they were able to answer my questions
Is this provider willing to pursue advice from other providers when necessary?
Yes, they were willing to ask for advice when necessary
Would you recommend this urologist to others?
I Already Have
Does this provider promptly return your phone calls?
Yes
Does this urologist promptly return your phone calls?
Yes
by Anonymous xxx.xxx.195.183
November 13, 2013
Did you spend a lot of time in the waiting room at this urologist's office?
The wait wasn't terrible, but it wasn't the best
Were you able to get answers to simple questions from this urologist without scheduling an appointment?
Absolutely! I'm always able to get my questions answered over the phone right away!
Did you leave the office feeling satisfied with your visit?
Completely!
How would you compare this provider to others in his/her field that you have visited?
Among the best I have seen
Was this provider's staff friendly?
Yes, they went above and beyond
by Anonymous xxx.xxx.69.96
May 31, 2013
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