Saturday, September 19, 2009

A Different Sort of Advice For Consumers

  • The Wall Street Journal

A Different Sort of Advice for Consumers

The ubiquitous Zagat guides are known for an assortment of mostly leisure-related topics including hotels, spas, golf courses, movies and nightlife. Now the editors are asking people to post reviews of their doctors.-- New York Times

Dermatology and Cosmetic Center

Try to "put your best face forward" as you are greeted at the door because, walking in, you "feel like you're under the microscope." Still, teens say they "feel welcomed" by staff, who greet them reassuringly. Penny-pinchers often leave "red in the face" after the bill arrives for an acid peel, "wondering what happened to their wallet," while other "clean-cut clientele" wax-on about the "Brazilian influences." The "eclectic menu" of services allows for "innovative pairings" where "fun-in-the-sun types" can find a "magnificent molé" handled with "cutting edge" attention. "Ladies Who Lunch" like the "uplifting treatment," adding that the facial service "fills a niche," lamenting that "others could do more about long lines out front."

Brite Smiles

Dentists at this "temple to all that is toothsome" score extra points for "signature" services though "waits can be like pulling teeth." "Up-and-coming meth addicts" and "boomers" converge at this "brassy, sassy" "mouth-popping" spot, where devotees "drive for miles" for what they call "drilled down" service and cognoscenti claim "excellent value." Despite "harried service," the "BYO policy" for nitrous oxide helps you avoid "breaking the bank" while you head to "nirvana." Some bemoan the "stuffy coat policy" for X-rays, which can "really weigh you down." And everyone seems to agree that while the post-op drooling "can be interminable," but the "quaint" décor and "old-world kitsch" ("drift off to the soothing aquatic-themed posters on the ceiling") can "really hit the spot" when that abscess on your gums hemorrhages and the "staff doesn't give you the time of day."

ER

"Not great for private functions," this "nice addition to the Downtown scene" is "always packed." Prepare to "stand in line behind high-rollers," who get "the VIP treatment," not the RIP treatment. While "service can vary," some say it is the "final word" on the subject. The atmosphere "could use some help," though the "frenetic pace" and "people watching" is enough to "pique your curiosity." Some surgical service can be "choppy," and you can "feel a little privileged even to be seated" in the face of "tremendous competition." Habitués frequent because they can't "resist to overdose on everything," even when the "invisible attitude" from staff is de rigueur. Simply put, "palatial prices" prove you can't afford to "come back every day." Be sure to "dress to the teeth and allow lots of time," especially for anyone on a "heaven-sent" trip or just an "unexpected special event." Those who "overdo their stay" can find "no words" to express their feelings.

Colon and Rectal Care

"The name says it all" at this Bronx establishment that "draws an older crowd" of regulars who "make it a tradition." Friendly doctors are known for "impeccable attention to detail" at this institution that "shatters stereotypes" with "south of the border flair." Fans say to "go hungry" because "pure indulgence" follows in downing "huge portions" of fluid. Most report back on the "polished service" and "leave feeling as if walking on air." "Designated driver" is recommended.

Ms. Getches is a writer and editor based in California.

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