Yesterday, I had an appointment with Dr. Noah Gratch, and unfortunately, it was not the best experience. While the receptionists and his medical assistant were very kind, the doctor made some inappropriate comments.
When I mentioned that I had a medical procedure done in my home country, he asked, "Which country?" I responded, "El Salvador," to which he made a comment about gangs—a situation that has affected my country in the past. This made me feel uncomfortable because we should not stigmatize countries or people.
He then proceeded to say that Donald Trump is deporting criminals and that he is doing a good job. I understand his political stance and respect that it is valid. He also said, "You were probably worried about gang issues, but now you can travel more easily to this country," which was an unnecessary comment since I live in the United States and am a U.S. citizen.
Aside from that, he was professional and addressed my skin issue. Perhaps his intention was not to make me feel stigmatized or discriminated against as a legal immigrant, but I feel he overstepped. If I wanted to discuss politics or racial issues, I would do so with a friend in a park—not in a medical office with my doctor.
I also work in healthcare and understand very well that patients should never feel excluded or stigmatized because of their country, race, religion, or sexual preference.
I may have my own political, ideological, or social views, but those are not topics to discuss with patients, as they are irrelevant to medical care.
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Antonella S. | Jul 22, 2025