Northside Midtown Imaging (not the hospital)
I am writing to express my deep disappointment and serious concerns regarding my recent experience at Midtown Imaging by Radiologist Ms. Aria Bueno. The behavior I encountered during my appointment on December 20, 2024, was not only unprofessional but also unacceptable, and it raises broader concerns about the quality of service and patient care at this facility.
The issues began with scheduling. My surgeon, Dr. X, had provided instructions for me to undergo a CT scan between Christmas and New Year's period, unbeknownst to me. When I scheduled my appointment for December 20, no one informed me that Midtown Imaging had interpreted this instruction as “after December 25.” This should have been clarified with the doctor or with me during scheduling to avoid unnecessary confusion and inconvenience.
During the appointment, Ms. Bueno reviewed my surgeon's instructions and abruptly informed me that she could not perform the exam that day and that I needed to reschedule, without providing any explanation. When I explained that I needed the exam completed that day due to upcoming travel plans, she repeated that she could not perform the exam, stating vaguely that she could “lose her license” if she did. This response left me confused and frustrated, as she failed to provide a clear rationale for her refusal.
When I asked for her name and requested to speak with a manager, Ms. Bueno's demeanor became hostile. She accused me of yelling at her, despite my calm tone, and threatened to call security to have me physically removed from the building. Her outburst escalated the situation unnecessarily and was wholly inappropriate. When I told her I no longer wished to engage with her and reiterated my request to speak with a manager, she continued accusing me of yelling, slammed the door, and left the room.
Fortunately, Ms. Melanie Wynn, who identified herself as the manager of the entire Midtown Imaging department, intervened. Ms. Wynn made a commendable effort to resolve the situation and ensured that I was able to have my CT scan that day. I appreciate her professionalism and her apology for the inconvenience I experienced. However, when I expressed my concerns about Ms. Bueno’s behavior and asked for further escalation, Ms. Wynn’s response—"Well, what do you want me to do?"—and her remark that "maybe she was scared" left me feeling dismissed and undermined. This perpetuated the harmful and outdated trope of the "angry Black man," further compounding my distress. It seemed evident that my concerns about the seriousness of Ms. Bueno’s behavior were not being taken seriously.
Ms. Bueno’s threat to call security over a simple request for her name and a manager is alarming. As a Black man, this felt like an attempt to weaponize security against me, which is deeply troubling and reminiscent of broader societal issues. I have been a loyal patient at Midtown Medical and Dr. XA for nearly 20 years, following the practice from its location at Emory Midtown, and later to Northside. My experiences at Northside Hospital, including my husband’s surgeries in Sandy Springs and my own in Cummings have consistently been exemplary. As a gay, interracial couple, we initially had reservations about seeking care in certain areas but were reassured by the professionalism and care we received—until now. I firmly believe that if I were a white woman, I would not have been treated in this manner.
My Requests:
Mandatory Training: Both Ms. Bueno and Ms. Wynn should undergo mandatory training in anger management, customer service, and diversity and inclusion.
Leadership Review: A thorough review of management practices at this location is necessary, as there appear to be systemic issues, reflected not only in my experience but also in numerous online Google reviews.
Accountability: A formal acknowledgment of this incident and clear steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
I am bringing this to your attention not only to address the harm done to me but also to ensure that no other patient—especially Black patients—has to endure such treatment. I look forward to your response and to understanding how Northside Hospital intends to address these concerns.
20 de diciembre de 2024
Opinión espontánea