proudmomofbug (13.11.2017 07:31)
My oldest has been a patient here for 15 years, and I have an infant that is now a patient as well. Overall, the service is fantastic. Usually the wait isn't long, less than 30 minutes. Occasionally it can be an hour, sometimes a little more, during peak appointment times (Mon & Fri, appts after 3 pm), but generally they are quick to see patients.
The staff is almost always polite and helpful (nobody is perfect, and sometimes new hires seem to be stressed and have trouble finding someone to help them). I always get calls to remind me of appointments, and I very much appreciate that they are open after 5 pm, so that my child doesn't have to miss school once every 3 months. The patient portal is extremely helpful, especially because I always forget the height/weight measurements after appointments. I like that there is separate sick and well waiting rooms, and they always have cartoons on to occupy the kiddos.
Dr. Okonkwo is friendly, extremely knowledgeable, personable, and patient. If he has a concern, he explains it well and has even referred us to a specialist to be on the safe side. The new doctor, Dr. Laroche, is also very kind, willing to listen to all of my concerns, and willing to work *with* me to do what's best for my children. Katie, the ARNP, is outgoing, smart, considerate, and the kids enjoy seeing her.
My only criticisms are that I wish they had toys or books in the waiting/exam rooms, and that sometimes there seems to be some disorganization up front, as I've had a couple referrals/lab results over the years not get entered into the system (which causes delays) and a couple that disappeared all together.
Overall, the medical professionals here are compassionate and knowledgeable. They listen to me and allow me to express my concerns and ideas. They explain things thoroughly. I feel comfortable speaking up when I'm hesitant, frustrated, or confused. I trust the people here, and I know my children are in good hands.
Jenny Giacobbe (04.11.2017 02:11)
If you make early morning appointments, there is minimal wait time. The staff are mostly helpful, but I only prefer Dr. Okonkwo to see my daughter. I am not a fan of the ARNPs there, I feel like they don't really listen to you when voicing your concerns and minimize everything.
Ali Cunningham (18.10.2017 23:44)
Everytime we come here we are always stuck waiting long after our appointment time just to be taken back by a nurse; then we are shoved into a room and told the doctor will be with us soon, however, there is ALWAYS at least an additional 25-30 Mom wait before the doctor even pops his head in! Beyond frustrating! If I make an appoint for 4:00pm I would expect the doctor to be in my room for the appointment no later than 4:20 however today it’s 4:43 and we STILL are waiting!!! Freaking obnoxious and the nurse all look at you like your les than important
Alexandra Cruz (21.12.2016 00:27)
I find the negative review on here to be a bit misleading. I have been taking my two sons to this office since I moved to Ocala almost 6 years ago. The doctor diagnosed his delay and got him the needed therapy and medication immediately. I have always been seen at my appointment time and treated with respect by the staff and doctor. Not once have I had any issues with the care provided. The nurse practitioners are thorough and considerate of the child's needs and take into consideration the thoughts of the parent as they care for the child. I believe some of the negative complaints regarding Dr. Okwonkwo might be racially motivated. I would not put it past anyone in this town to think that way. He is a professional and should be respected as such.
Gurley Life (16.08.2016 20:21)
Brought my 18 month old son there for extreme high fever, not eating or drinking, urinating, couldnt stand and much more. We took him to Munroe er where he ended up being severely dehydrated and told us to fallow up with his primary. The next day my mother in law brought him in while I was at work and they had her and my son sit in the room for an hour and a half while he screamed in pain without even a nurse visit. My mother inlaw went to the nurses several times asking when my son will be seen and they all told her that they could not answer that. We brought him to Shands where they found out he had viral meningitis and emitted him for several days. The lack of compassion and care is high at this place and they did nothing to help my child. SHAME ON THIS PRACTICE! Oh and I just received a letter stating that my child is no longer able to attend there. What a joke