This is an Experience I Want to Share

It was a Sunday when Robert Smithson, 63, first began experiencing a “twinge of pain or discomfort” in his stomach. By Tuesday morning, the pain was intense. Suspecting something might be seriously wrong, he headed to the ER.

Welcoming and Efficient Process
The first thing about the ER at Fruitville that stood out for Smithson (besides abundant parking) was that he was immediately attended to. He also noted how clean the facility was and how professional the staff looked.

“I was welcomed as soon as I entered the ER,” he says. “When I described my symptoms, I was immediately put into a bed in an exam room. They took my vitals and told me that the doctor would be coming to see me momentarily.”

Smithson underwent a CT scan with contrast to help determine what was causing his pain. When the doctor told him he had diverticulitis, “my wife and I had a sigh of relief,” recalls Smithson.

His medications were explained, and he was advised to follow up with his primary care doctor and a GI physician.

“After about two hours, we said our goodbyes to the wonderful team at the ER at Fruitville,” he says.

What Smithson appreciated most was the excellent communication and timely care. From the person who welcomed him, to the nurse, CT tech, physician and billing person, people throughout his stay made him feel truly comfortable. Today, Smithson says he feels great, and everything is back to normal.

“I think it’s important for people to know they can get into ER at Fruitville quickly and safely, and they have competent staff,” adds Smithson.

In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. This emergency department is part of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. This is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners, who are not employees or agents of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.