Dianne Jones Ford's Online Review Report Card

I had been to Dr. Ford in the the past and recommended many people to her. So, you can understand my surprise when I was treated so poorly by someone I respected. I went in for a common skin condition. Initially, I felt unheard and found myself trying to explain to her that she originally diagnosed me with the issue I was there for, but apparently, she felt that I interrupted her. She literally said, "You're doing all the talking so I don't need to say anything". I apologized and explained to her my intention wasn't to be rude. She said "well you cut me off three times so". I reminded her I was there for her help and apologized again. Finally, she proceeded to talk to me at that point. She was confusing me a bit, but I was afraid to ask her many questions because she was so short earlier. Eventually, we agreed on a treatment. Then, she asks me "what about your other problem?" I had no clue what she was talking about so I asked what that problem was. She said, "You need to lose weight". She then asks me if I heard of a doctor, who I know is a surgeon that specializes in gastric bypass. I told her I did but was not interested in gastric bypass. Then she starts telling me to Google diet doctors. Literally, she gave me three names and it's in my notes provided by the nurse. Like the 'doctors' on YouTube that promotes elimination diets and fasting. I tried so hard to be cool about what she was saying, but it was painful. I could respect if she approached me by focusing on healthy changes or promoting exercise. But, gastric bypass? Fad diets? I even bought into one the doctors she mentioned in the past and told her I had his book. Still, fad dieting isn't usually something a medical professional suggests. Especially a dermatologist. And, recommending her patients to a doctor for weight loss surgery without understanding anything about their medical history, conditions or limitations is just dangerous. When I left, I sat in my car and cried for about 10mins. I was humiliated by both how she spoke to me and her approach to dealing with my diet. After talking to my husband, we agreed its best to see someone else. I called another dermatologist and told them about my appointment with Dr. Ford. They were equally appalled and was able to fit me in this week. I have never been so humiliated in my life. I tried very hard to keep my composure while in her office because I thought it was best, but she was awful. Hurtful. And down right unprofessional. We are looking into reporting this because nobody should be made to feel that way. The only redeeming thing about my experience is when I called the next day to cancel my future appointments with Dr. Ford and explained to her why. The person I spoke to in the front office was beyond apologetic and very kind. I wish I had gotten her name to post here, but I didn't, regrettably. I don't know what happened to Dr. Ford but she lost my trust, respect and my business. Perhaps, most importantly, she lost her way.

Unfortunately, over the past few years, Dr. Ford has turned her practice almost entirely into cosmetic procedures for which she can bill larger amounts of money than for basic, necessary dermatology appointments. If you want to get an appointment for cosmetic, no problem! If you have a suspicious skin condition/mole, forget seeing her for at least 2 months. Plus, she repeatedly canceled and rescheduled regular skin check-ups. Dr. Ford is very pleasant, but her practice has moved towards where the big money is. I'm searching for a new dermatologist.

Over the past 3+ years, their services have gradually deteriorated. The front desk is rude and technicians frequently run late. Too concerned about collecting fees - even requesting phone payments from long-time customers such as myself (Have never left a balance after a visit). There are several dermatologists along Thomas Johnson Drive that offer better services with more skilled technicians. I have found mine and will not be back.

I have been a patient for approximately 5 years and have had numerous procedures performed. I have always found the staff to be friendly and helpful. Dr. Ford has always been very kind, thorough and concerned for my comfort during a procedure. She has always taken the time to answer my questions and reassure me even on her busiest day. I would recommend Dr. Ford to anyone looking for a dermatologist.

I have found Dr. Ford and her staff to be very caring and professional. I did not have to wait more than a few minutes. Dr. Ford was patient and kind, addressing everything I needed to know. I had a procedure done, which took time. I never felt rushed. I think she is a great doctor and would recommend her highly to others.

Dr. Ford needs to hire new front office personnel and make sure they have/get the proper training to do their jobs efficiently, professionally and politely. It is my experience Dr. Ford usually runs about a half an hour behind schedule. Overall, I am disappointed with this practice and intend to find a new dermatologist.

Overall, I found the practice was as good as some and took the insurance others don't. That said, they instituted a policy of requiring a patient to keep a credit card ON FILE permanently...with no alternative. With data insecurity and who knows who as employees having access to that, I am finding another dermatologist. Privacy is paramount, and obviously with a policy like this, they don't think it is. They do need to spend some money on a front desk staff that can answer the phone and not put you on hold only to drop your call. It seems there's a revolving door for that position and that should tell you something about the management.

I couldn't make an appointment because the front desk receptionist was extremely rude and uneducated at best. She doesn't even know that my insurance is part of the Doctor's contract. She kept insisting that Aetna Open Access is an HMO which it is not. She then proceeded to say "I would need to see the card first before I can make you an appt. so there is no confrontation when you come in the office". This lady probably turned many patients away. She needs to be fired!

The doctor's visit was $90. Then to have a TINY mole frozen and hit briefly with the laser $140. To have another mole cut out was $120. I had no idea it was this expensive! When I asked before I had the procedure done I was told $90-100. You can imagine my disappointment to find it was $260 ~ that's quite a price difference! Dr. Ford was very kind and does great work, but this discrepancy is making me think about ever going back. This is really unacceptable.

First vist doctor was behind, did a fast checkup, was told she had other patients, I was to reschedule. Went back, received a call that they cancelled my appointment, because my insurance had not paid, Fords office made coding error. Then they sent lab results to a lab in Massachusets, out of Carefirst network. Not going back to her. She was nice and did spend time. but two strikes!