Joplin Medical: Dr. Karen Porte

On a recent visit to Access Family Care I was asked to fill out an anonymous evaluation form and I was happy to do so, but it occurred to me that Access Family Care and particularly my physician, Dr. Karen Porte, deserved much more from me than an anonymous pat on the back.

Let me begin by saying that every contact with someone from Access Family Care has been positive - - I appreciate the excellent care I have received and professional way in which I have been treated whether for a regular appointment, or simply lab work.  Staff members have been pleasant, helpful, and patient even when things seem busy or hectic.

I must commend Dr. Porte in particular.  Dr. Porte does not accept excuses from me, or make excuses for me but rather gives me the information I need and presents a plan to make me an accountable participant in my health care.  This has made a significant difference in my life and well being.

In past years I have experienced more times than anyone should, dismissive physicians who would not, or could not understand clusters of symptoms I would describe, or who would not believe that I was indeed compliant with diet or medication instructions, or who would make assumptions about me without evaluating my occupation or lifestyle.  One physician told me that the answer for my carpal tunnel syndrome was to “go home and stop eating” (completely ignoring that my work involved the computer, not recommending any comfort measures, etc.). My physical condition continued to deteriorate, and without medial insurance, choices for care were limited.  When I first visited Dr. Porte she evaluated everything I described and began to explain a plan of action, cautioning me that this was not a quick fix but would take time.  I had a lot of pain, more than one kind of pain, pain that made even simple movements difficult. I needed a cane to walk, and I was walking very little. At 55 years old I was barely functioning at the level my mother did when she was 70.  Now, after benefit of Dr. Porte’s expertise and understanding of my individual condition, I am walking with no assistance, free of the pervasive pain I had before, I am functioning as I should be for my age.  I can’t begin to describe what a difference this has made for me and my family. Dr. Porte is always direct and honest with me, never dismissive or rude.   She listens to what I have to say and is never patronizing.  I appreciate this level of respect. 

As my appointments have been completed, and the nurse brings any prescriptions or literature, and as I check out, and I make a future appointment, I have found every staff person making the effort to make sure my needs were met.

Access Family Medical and especially Dr. Porte receive highest praise from me and are recommended by me often.