Stephen Donelan's Online Review Report Card

As an individual who has been intimately affected by polycystic kidney disease, my aspiration for a better treatment was ignited when tolvaptan entered clinical trials. My mother's deteriorating kidney health served as a painful reminder of the urgency and importance of advancements in medical treatment. However, my hopes were thwarted by Dr. Stephen Donelan, who denied me access to a medication that could potentially transform my life. My decision to use tolvaptan was not impulsive or ill-informed. It was based on years of diligent blood work, demonstrating my body's capability to tolerate the medication. Despite this evidence, Dr. Donelan chose to refuse my treatment, citing the risk of elevated liver enzymes. His decision seemed to stem not from a place of medical caution, but from a fear of possible complications - an approach that, in my case, was both limiting and unwarranted. It is critical to understand that the choice to accept potential risks in pursuit of improved health should rest with the patient, provided they have a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Dr. Donelan’s decision to deny me this treatment disregarded my autonomy as a patient and my right to make informed decisions about my health. This is not just about my personal disappointment; it raises serious ethical concerns about the doctor's role in patient care. Now, as a molecular biologist with a specific interest in researching PKD, I have a deeper understanding of the disease and the potential impact of treatments like tolvaptan. In light of this, Dr. Donelan’s actions are even more distressing. I believe it's crucial to highlight this experience to the medical community, not as an act of retaliation, but as a call to uphold the ethical standards of our profession. We must ensure that physicians act in the best interest of their patients, respecting their autonomy and providing them with the most effective treatments available. We cannot allow fear to dictate our medical decisions, nor should we let it limit the possibilities for our patients. Let this serve as a reminder that our primary duty is to do no harm, and withholding potential life-altering treatment out of unfounded fear is, in my view, a breach of this fundamental principle. I implore you - if you, or anyone you know, has ever been under the care of Dr. Donelan, take immediate action. Seek a second opinion without delay. Your health, your wellbeing, and potentially your life may depend on it. Beyond this, I urge you to reach out to the esteemed legal team at J&J Attorneys. They are currently in the process of building a substantial malpractice case against Dr. Donelan. Your experiences, your voice, could be pivotal in this legal battle. This is not just about accountability; it's about ensuring that no one else falls prey to the kind of negligence and unethical behavior I, and potentially many others, have experienced. Together, we can make a stand and demand the standard of care we deserve from the medical community.

He took the time to listen and did a very thorough exam. He cared about me as an individual

Took time to work with me and explain my condition

Dr. Donelan combines expertise in his field with a very caring demeanor. He takes time to explain things and I never feel like he is in a hurry to get to the next patient. He always answers my questions. I feel very lucky to have him as my physician.

This doctor was assigned to me by the hospital staff. He made sure he visited me everyday I was in the hospital. Not because he needed to see me, but because he needed to CHARGE