Dr. Valerie Callender

I hate to write a negative review about a black doctor, but unfortunately I have to. I was seen today as a new patient and never saw a doctor - only a physician assistant (PA). I raised this fact two times during my visit and once over the phone after returning home. The response I got from the receptionist was that Dr. Callender only sees new patients and performs procedures. That’s fair - however, I was a new patient. When I raised this with the receptionist she said that there probably was a mix-up, apologized, and said she would make sure it was made clear to me moving forward who I was seeing and that Dr. Callender didn’t have any availability until November. No problem - I mentioned I wanted to move my follow-up appointment to November however, she reminded me that Dr. Callender doesn’t do follow-ups and I wouldn’t be a new patient anymore. One would think since there was a mistake and I didn’t see a doctor at my new patient visit (despite that being their policy) it would be possible to see a doctor at my follow-up appointment, even if it wasn’t Dr. Callender. Before being able to resolve my concerns over the phone, the receptionist told me to hold on because there was a patient in front of me, and the line disconnected. I called back 4 times (after waiting a few minutes) and was directed to voicemail each time. In sum, I would not recommend this practice for the following two reasons: 1. This practice seems to be run by physician assistants and it is not clear from the patient’s point of view what, if any, supervision the doctor is providing. 2. Communication could improve. While the receptionist and PA were nice enough, it did not come across to me like they were genuinely trying to address my concerns. As a fellow black professional, I sincerely hope this practice improves. Dr. Callender has great credentials and I am sure is great at what she does, but at the end of the day, that starts with how patients are treated when they walk through the door.

Called the receptionist (5/13/25 at 9:47am) about an appointment and understanding of no show fee. She was very short and had a rude tone. I was so disappointed because I wanted to patronize a black dermatologist. I’ve heard wonderful things but this interaction made me stop from making an appointment. I hope they work on customer service skills for schedulers

Had a virtual meeting about my SKIN. Doctor was rude and seemed rushed. Gave me prescriptions that I didn't use because my skin wasn't even assessed in person. Would not recommend.

I have been a patient here for at over 10 years. Dr. Young is the best! Compassionate and caring. But if I ever need to call to check the status of my prescription refill, it can take 2 weeks or more. I can't get a person to pick up the phone nor can I get someone to return my call...so frustrating.