I started coming here after I developed posterior scleritis in my left eye. I began seeing Dr. Pohodich, and she is a wonderful doctor. She was very sensitive to my situation, especially since I don’t trust or like Western doctors and strongly dislike pharmaceutical medications even more. When I was first diagnosed with posterior scleritis, I refused to take pharmaceutical medications. However, within two weeks, while trying to find an alternative treatment, my eye went from mildly inflamed to extremely severe. I had no choice but to begin pharmaceutical treatment, as I was told there is no alternative for this condition. I even spoke with a few naturopathic doctors during that time. I reluctantly started on prednisone and mycophenolate, knowing that my body does not tolerate medications well. After tapering off prednisone, I began experiencing significant side effects from the mycophenolate, so we switched to methotrexate injections. Because of concerns about my kidneys, Dr. Pohodich had me complete lab work every four weeks. Dr. Pohodich then went on maternity leave and was expected to be gone for only six months. After she left, I became sick and started experiencing kidney pain. She had previously instructed me to contact her immediately if I developed even mild symptoms, as patients on these medications require close monitoring. I reached out to her staff to report that I was sick and experiencing kidney and ear pain, and to ask when I should have my labs done next. The staff member who responded told me to go to urgent care if I felt I needed to be seen and said that labs were only necessary every three months. I explained that this was not Dr. Pohodich’s treatment plan for me due to my kidney concerns. I was then informed that she would not be returning to Casey Eye Clinic. I am now scheduled to see another doctor who does not appear to be following the treatment plan previously established for me. I am again experiencing significant side effects from methotrexate. I have been sick, my ears hurt, and my kidneys are hurting, yet I feel that my concerns are not being taken seriously. At this point, I feel completely defeated by the medical system and have stopped taking the medications because they seem to be making me worse. I would rather risk losing my eye than continue enduring these side effects & possibly losing my kidneys. I am told this condition is caused by an autoimmune disease, yet no one has worked to determine which autoimmune disease I have so that we can treat the underlying cause rather than simply manage symptoms and hope for the best. A month and a half ago, I would have given a five-star review and written a glowing recommendation about Dr. Pohodich and the care I received. Unfortunately, since her departure, my experience has changed dramatically. If my symptoms come back I will have to seek out other care as I will not return to this clinic unless Dr Pohodich returns but that is highly unlikely. I am giving 2 stars now because of my negative experience but there are a few medical assistants, front desk lady & technicians that assist in my visits at this clinic that are very nice so, they deserve 5 stars but can't give 5 stars do to the other negative experience I'm having at this time.
