First Choice OBGYN — Wasilla

My experience with Dr. South left me feeling that I did not have a meaningful say in my own medical care. At approximately 9 weeks pregnant, I declined an STI swab. I was not refusing prenatal care or all STI testing; I simply was not comfortable with a vaginal swab. I have had two previous pregnancies and had not been asked to undergo this particular swab this early in pregnancy. I was also experiencing bleeding from a uterine hematoma and have a history of miscarriage, so vaginal bleeding is extremely stressful for me. When I expressed that I did not want the swab, Dr. South told me, in her words, “It’s not Burger King,” and that I could not pick and choose the care I received. I found that response dismissive and inconsistent with the kind of informed, collaborative care I expect from an OB. I had another concerning interaction with Dr. South regarding ondansetron (Zofran). A few weeks earlier, I called after hours because I had vomited blood while struggling with severe pregnancy-related vomiting. During that conversation, I mentioned feeling guilty and concerned about taking Zofran. My recollection is that Dr. South laughed at my concern, characterized fears surrounding the medication as a misconception or fearmongering, and told me that it was safe for mother and baby and that there were “no known risks to baby.” That stood out to me because another physician in this practice had previously discussed potential risks with me before prescribing it, as had two ER physicians I saw before my first prenatal appointment. I am not suggesting that Zofran should not be prescribed or that its potential risks outweigh its benefits. My concern is that patients deserve an accurate discussion of both benefits and potential risks so that they can make informed decisions. Ultimately, I left feeling that my questions and boundaries were treated as obstacles rather than part of the decision-making process. Women should be able to ask questions, decline a procedure, request alternatives, and discuss the risks and benefits of medications without being ridiculed or made to feel that they have surrendered their voice simply because they are receiving prenatal care. I am sharing my experience so other patients can make their own informed decision about whether this practice is the right fit for them. I will add that she kindly offer me 30 days of emergency care until I could find a new Dr and she was willing to fix my order at the infusion center.

I saw their PA, Maggie. 10/10 recommend! She is patient, kind, very personable, and a great bedside manner. She takes the time to answer your questions and does a great job keeping the patient involved in their care. I am so grateful I found First Choice.

5 stars always! Dr. South and her staff are the best. From the moment you enter its noticeable that she is running a wonderful office. Clean ,well stocked with everything she needs and staff that is in tune with her patients. She has a wait list for new patients for good reason, because they are excellent. No matter if it's the simple annual appointments, prenatal care or gynecological complications she can handle it all. She has delivered 2 of my babies, neither were easy pregnancies but she was fearless as far as I could tell. Her confidence was exactly what I needed because I was terrified to my core, I needed to know i was understood and our priorities were her priorities. In an emergency situation, she came to the ER in the middle of the night and stayed with me. She ensured I knew my options and stayed until my ambulance took me away for higher level surgical care. She advocated for me and our babies, didn't mince words and laid it out to ensure I could make the best choice for me in the situation.

I followed Dr. South from Mat-Su, and I feel so at home with First Choice! The entire staff is so friendly and welcoming, and the office itself is bright and cheerful — much less sterile than the hospital. Not only is Dr. South such an incredible doctor, but I’m so glad to now have Maggie on my care team, too. They are both excellent providers. I feel heard, safe and well taken care of. I recommend Dr. South to every pregnant woman looking for care. She delivered my first baby, and despite having to be induced, my delivery was a pleasant, memorable experience. I have no fears about having my second baby because I know Dr. South will take excellent care of me. I can’t recommend First Choice enough!

I’ve been with Dr.South ever since we moved to Alaska in 2020 and I couldn’t be happier. Everyone in the office is friendly and professional, the new location is in a very nice area and it was easy to find. I highly recommend First choice OBGYN!