Berman Skin Institute | Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology

I was shocked to learn that after spending more than 10 minutes filling out in detail my medical history, list of allergies, dermatological concerns, and past surgeries before my appointment, the medical assistant who led me to the examination room did not read the forms I filled out, and when I suggested she do so before she asked me again what was the purpose of my visit, she left the room and returned with the dermatologist who had already been 15 minutes late for my appointment, the dermatologist huffily informing me that his medical assistant said I refused to talk with her an that I had wanted to see him. "What can I do for you? Why are you here?" he had brusquely asked. I said, "As I said to your medical assistant, please read the medical history I filled out at the registration desk." Astonishingly, the dermatologist quite proudly announced that he had not read the forms I submitted, had no knowledge of my medical history and even though I stated on the form my reasons for making the appointment, he wanted me to accept that I had not only wasted my time filling out in detail the medical information that had been asked of me but as well wanted me to repeat everything I had spent more than ten minutes writing down before my appointment. How totally disrespectful and unprofessional! The medical assistant continued to remain in the room while I spoke with the dermatologist, and I asked the doctor what the purpose was for the medical assistant to be in the same consultation/examination room with me. He said she was there as a witness. A witness? Was this a legal matter? Surveillance? He misinterpreted my desire for private consultation with him as my feeling ashamed of taking off my clothes, exposing cysts on my skin I had hoped he might treat. He examined my skin and told me he could do little to help me except provide a referral for surgery at UCSF! Meanwhile the medical assistant literally stood at the back of the room, her back against the wall, just listening. While he told me he could do nothing himself, he volunteered to give me a steroidal injection in my back for an area of my skin that itched badly. How did the dermatologist determine that it was safe for him to inject me with a steroid when he knew nothing of my medical history, my health history, my allergies, what medications made me ill? Hmmmm? He knew nothing about me or my medical background and history, said he could do little to treat the cysts I had, but yet felt completely confident to inject this patient who was a stranger with steroids! This is what you get. I realized later, when a medical clinic operates as a DEI business. What you get is a doctor who isn't the least curious about his patient, doesn't care to be informed about the patient before seeing the patient, and perfectly capable of showing you that he can be as unhelpful and as indifferent to a patient as any drug pusher standing on the dirty, cluttered corner of the sidewalk in the Tenderloin District of San Francisco.

Update: Appreciate the quick response and action on this review. Their text reminders were picked up by my spam filter, so be sure to add their # to your contacts! Updating to 4 stars because otherwise I had a good experience with this office and Dr. Pyles. I went here for a 1-off skin concern a year ago. The front desk scheduled a follow-up appointment without my knowledge for a year later. I missed their reminder call the day before the appointment (they called at 8 am and it went to voicemail). By the time I listened to their voicemails 2 days later I found out I would be charged $150 for missing the appointment.

I really appreciate my dermatologist, Sam. Her bedside manner puts me at ease and I trust she had my best interests at heart. She helped me find the best solution for my skincare needs, and helped me understand the treatments. It was through her recommendation and advice that I finally decided to go for Botox and the Halo Laser treatment. I have one tiny complaint, unrelated to my dermatologist Sam in any way. The chairs in the treatment rooms in both the Los Altos and San Francisco office are uncomfortable, even when reclined. Overall I'm very pleased with Sam and the services provided!

My PCP referred me to UCSF but the earliest they could see me was March. I logged in to Berman and an hour and a half later I was in an exam room. Back in the 80’s I went to this group when it was a tiny office. Later I recommended my partner go see them and here in 2024 I’m back again. Great appointment from start to finish. Have a new med with a follow up on the calendar. Healthcare made easy and friendly.

I REALLY am grateful for Berman Skin Institute. In a world where getting an appointment with a dermatologist covered by your insurance can take months, Berman is outstanding. I see Anna Staub. I know my skin very well and will quickly point out my areas of concern. We zap them or cut them out: off to pathology. It just has never been quite as easy for me as it is here. I feel like my concerns are listened to and taken seriously, and that doesn’t happen that much these days either. Thanks!