North Scottsdale Women’s Health

I’m sharing this review because I think communication and continuity of care are especially important when dealing with something as personal and complex as hormone therapy. I scheduled an appointment with the nurse practitioner at North Scottsdale Women’s Health specifically because Dr. Simone was not available for several weeks. I was told by the front desk that the nurse practitioner works closely with Dr. Simone and would be able to explain the reasoning behind Dr. Simone’s recent recommendations and help me understand the plan. Unfortunately, that was not my experience. I paid nearly $200 for the appointment and, rather than receiving clarification about Dr. Simone’s recommendations, I was initially given advice that seemed to be the opposite of what Dr. Simone had recommended. When I explained that the purpose of my appointment was to understand Dr. Simone’s reasoning, I was then told that they simply have different approaches. I completely understand that two medical professionals may have different clinical opinions. What I don’t understand is why I was specifically directed to schedule and pay for an appointment with someone to explain my doctor’s treatment recommendation if that provider did not appear to know the reasoning behind it. This has been part of a larger frustration with communication at the practice. The portal system often feels like messages are being filtered through different people rather than allowing for clear communication with the physician managing your care. When treatment recommendations are changing, patients need to understand why. I went into this appointment hoping for clarity and reassurance about my treatment plan. Instead, I walked away more confused than I was before I arrived. If you are someone who values a physician who has the time and availability to thoroughly explain treatment decisions and provide continuity of care, I would take that into consideration when choosing this practice.

Nurse Practitioner Darla McKamey was absolutely wonderful! She was kind, knowledgeable, and made me feel comfortable and at ease throughout my experience. She took the time to make sure I felt cared for and reassured, and her warm, compassionate approach truly made a difference. It’s clear that she genuinely cares about her patients, and I’m so grateful to have had such a positive experience with her. Thank you, Darla, for being such an amazing nurse!