Dr. Fishman has literally saved my life, because I was a very sick and desperate person until I found him. He is a great holistic physician who treats the whole person. He also has an extraordinary background, with multiple specialties, and a deeply scientific approach to solving problems. I have never before had the kind of comprehensive medical care that he has given to me for ten years. My Lyme Disease, while probably never leaving me completely, has been under tight control for years. But he is very vigilant, and comes up with creative solutions whenever my symptoms re-emerge or intensify. I am eternally grateful to him and can never really thank him enough.
Dr. fishman Is very thorough, always explains all test results. And all clinical recommendations. In other words, he treats me like the intelligent person I am. He said that he has had Lyme disease himself and generally does not recommend things he has not tried himself. He attends and has spoken at Lyme disease courses and conferences, which gives confidence. He is patient and kind, e.g. 'Good chairside manner'. He responds to patient calls as soon as feasible, sometimes same day, sometimes next day. Only suggestion I have is that he have open my medication list instead of asking me what I am taking and how much during office visit (that is appropriate sometimes, e.g. If I am on a regimen alternating meds, or if I have recently changed dosage). His notes are usually neat and organized, which helps for insurance. There have been very occasional issues with diagnosis codes, but his office is always helpful in sorting them out. It is useful that office has a naturopathic doctor on staff, a stock of supplements, and lab facilities for essential procedures, all in one place. And Quest Diagnostics and LabCorps are in the same complex. And parking is Free!
Overall, it it a wonderful experience to meet with Dr. and Kathryn Fishman in Charlottesville. Dr. F spends an hour with me really getting familiar with symptoms I have been experiencing. Kathryn is so helpful answering questions that I have between appointments. All clerical staff are courteous, helping me with refills, scheduling, and insurance. The only change I would like to see is a way to get a hold of them before a Saturday appointment -- Because I come on Saturdays, it would be helpful to have a phone number where I could reach them if I am running late.
Doctor Fishman's very thorough with his explanations of the various medical issues I am facing and quite reassuring in his planning for both immediate and future treatment.
Truly a Dr who has an open mind about the limitations of medicine and the challenges facing Lyme patients. Grateful for him and his dedication to healing.
Dr. Fishman spends much more time with me than most or all other doctors, taking his time to explain things in great detail which is extremely helpful. His approach is something that I have not experienced with any other doctor.