Tell me about Dr. Hood (pediatrician) in East Brunswick

Re: Tell me about Dr. Hood (pediatrician) in East Brunswick

• sarah1179

  September 2011

  Let me begin by saying he is a wonderful doctor, probably one of the best which is why we haven't switched to a new doctor yet. So awesome that my two year old daughter will go in and let him pick her up and give him a hug and she can be shy around people. I'll give you our history and you can go from there.  
  

  We have been seeing him since out daughter was born (she turned 2 almost 2 weeks ago). While I was pregnant we went to meet him and were skeptical that he was the only doctor in the practice. I ask if he would stop taking patients if his schedule got too packed or if he would take on another doctor. He said he wouldn't take on another doctor he would turn away new patients. 

  This was probably July and by September he had taken on a partner. It took some time but we all got used to the new doctor and actually ended up seeing her frequently, I felt more so than Dr. Hood himself. By the time my daughter was 18 months the "new doctor" left the practice, the nurse practitioner had left, and they were on the third or fourth receptionist. Being a first time mom that was looking for a small practice it was too much change for me personally. Now that he is the only doctor in the practice he does have a doctor that covers for him while he is on vacation or away on business but, I have never met that doctor.
  

  The last 6 months has been much more consistent when it comes to staffing. It's just Dr. Hood, his assistant that does the vitals, and one other receptionist.

  My current issue is the office hours that don't match what is listed on the website and I never know when they are going to be there. I understand Dr. Hood still works in the peds ER at St. Peter's so his schedule will change but, I feel the hours should be updated on the website.

  For example, my daughter was sick with fever this afternoon at 3:30 and they were closed. I had NO idea they weren't going to be there. So, now I have to wait until morning and if you aren't one of the first three callers you won't get an appointment until almost 5pm. Then, my daughter will have been sick for over 24 hours before being seen by her doctor. I don't want to feel like I'm trying to win a radio contest while trying to set up and appointment for my daughter. It is incredibly frustrating when it comes to getting an appointment because of the hours they are there. 

  So, overall we have had an interesting experience. I have mixed emotions about the whole situation. We still go there because my daughter doesn't mind going to the doctor and doesn't have anxiety about going to the doctor and I've spoken to a lot of other Moms that have children that hate going to the doctor. I want to do what is best for my daughter but, not being able to get her an appointment when she needs it is becoming a big concern for us. We may be looking to switch doctors very soon and not because Dr. Hood isn't a good doctor but, because we aren't able to rely on care when we need it. 

  Best of luck in you search and I hope this helps!   
  

  Scott and Sarah-October 22,2005 Parents to Kaelyn-September 7, 2009 Baby #2 is due-May 29, 2012

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• EvenAngelsFall member

  September 2011

  Thanks Sarah, that was all incredibly helpful!

  Best of luck whatever you decide! 

  "If every word I said, could make you laugh - I'd talk forever".
  
  
  

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