SR
sharlene R
Active since May 2016
10
Reviews
0
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Reviews
10 reviews8 months ago
Review: An Extremely Disappointing Experience with Dr. Steyn at The Spine Centre Kuils River hospital
<div>Review: An Extremely Disappointing and ********* Experience with Dr. Steyn at The Spine Centre<strong> Kuils River hospital. </strong>After living with chronic spinal pain for over eight years, I had hoped that visiting The Spine Centre would finally offer a path toward meaningful relief and surgical guidance. Instead, what I experienced with Dr. Steyn was not only profoundly unhelpful but also deeply frustrating and, frankly, *********. I was originally referred directly to Dr. Venter at the <strong>Spine Centre in Kuils River</strong> by another surgeon, after having already seen a reputable pain specialist in <strong>Cape Town.</strong> That specialist had given me clarity on my condition and helped manage my pain when I returned to South Africa after years overseas. The next logical step was to consult a surgeon to discuss long-term options and a second opinion on the way forward. However, when I called Dr. Venter’s rooms, I was told I had to first speak with Dr. Steyn. I agreed to a phone call, which seemed promising at first — he invited me to come in for a consultation. From the moment I arrived, the experience took a sharp turn for the worse. Despite clearly seeing that I am South African Indian, Dr. Steyn greeted me in Afrikaans and addressed me as “Vrou Rajah” — an unnecessarily formal and disconnected way to refer to a patient, given the context. It immediately made me feel like he had made assumptions about me before even engaging properly. In the consultation room, he asked me to explain my pain — even though I had already done so in the pre-consult call and provided all my medical reports, MRI scans, and detailed forms. Rather than reviewing or referencing them, he spent the next few minutes complaining about the quality of the MRI, asking where I had it done (N1 City), as though the location somehow invalidated its credibility. I tried once again to explain my ongoing pain, the degeneration in my spine, and that this consultation was specifically to move toward surgical advice, as recommended by my pain specialist. Dr. Steyn seemed uninterested in any of that. At one point, he dismissively told me to “take off that pink thing” — referring to my jacket — in a tone so patronising, it felt like he was speaking to a child rather than a grown woman who had been suffering for years and seeking professional help. It got worse. He outright questioned the conclusions of my pain specialist and, in a condescending tone, asked, “What do you understand from this?” I reminded him that I’m not a specialist — that I rely on expert guidance — and explained that the women in my family have a history of spinal arthritis and degeneration. Instead of acknowledging this, he mocked the relevance of my comment with an arrogant smirk and dismissive follow-up questions asking “what do the women have” and continued speaking in his medical jargon of which maybe he thought I also have a medical degree. I was there in good faith, in pain, hoping for help. Instead, I was interrogated, disrespected, and talked down to. When I finally told him that I was paying for his time and expected a professional, respectful consultation — not arrogance and condescension — he simply sat there with his arms folded, continuing the dismissive attitude. Adding to the sheer unprofessionalism of the experience, Dr. Steyn told me he knows my pain specialist personally — a completely inappropriate and irrelevant remark that bordered on a breach of professional boundaries. Patient-doctor confidentiality exists for a reason, and trying to pull personal connections into a clinical consultation is highly unprofessional and *********. What shocked me most was what happened as I left. After I made it clear that I wouldn’t tolerate being spoken to in such a demeaning way, Dr. Steyn turned to my husband and said, “She has a short fuse.” This is not only defamatory, but absolutely inappropriate behavior for a medical professional. Yes, I was short — not because of my personality — but because I had just endured 30 minutes of being treated with contempt rather than compassion. No one deserves to be belittled, least of all in a healthcare setting. To say this consultation was worthless would be an understatement. It was retraumatising. I left feeling more helpless than when I walked in. Dr. Steyn’s approach was not just unhelpful — it was harmful. In addition, I later received an apology letter from Dr. Steyn via his reception — but even that was filled with medical jargon and lacked any genuine acknowledgment of my concerns. It was clear he hadn’t truly listened from the outset. I had stated clearly that my pain had already been assessed by a qualified pain specialist, and that I was seeking other options/advice as the next step. He disregarded that entirely. Listening is one of the most critical skills a doctor should have — yet it was completely absent in this interaction. There was not word of direction or advise from him while I sat there. All the money I’ve spent over the past eight years — on consultations, MRIs, reports, and expert opinions — clearly meant nothing to him. His dismissal of my pain specialist’s findings recently and his suggestion that they were incorrect only further highlighted his arrogance. I sincerely hope no other patient in pain has to endure what I did. This kind of behavior has no place in healthcare, especially not in a specialised centre where people come seeking relief after years of suffering. I would strongly urge anyone considering The Spine Centre Kuils river — and Dr. Steyn in particular — to proceed with caution.</div>
1 reply
9 months ago
WORST HOTEL SERVICE AND RESPONSE TO COMPLAINTS, THEY ANGER YOU AND THEN LECTURE YOU HOW TO TALK AFTER THAT.
Probably the worst hotel to stay at given the arrogant reservation staff and once you complain the GM has the nerve to tell you that you shouldn't have shouted or made comments that you were clearly pushed to make, they treat their clients like children and their food isn't clean at all , previously had food poisoning which was reported and no one attended to , Kitchen staff wiping the stove with a dirty cloth when making omelets. It is not worth it and never again when we use this unprofessional hotel that has the nerve to tell us how to talk when you complain.
0 replies
9 months ago
Useless Bank. Not worth investing in FNB
FNB has the worst service and has gone to the dogs. I have been trying for 2 days fo get a pending error transaction reversed . Chat couldnt help , dont know what is their purpose as they are absolutely useless. Called 2 call centre numbers , calls dropped waiting over 30 minutes and still no resolution. Such a joke of a bank !!!! Why do we even invest here. I am moving away and going to the ombudsman.
106 replies
9 months ago
Attempted Hijacking, Traumatised—and Then Let Down by Discovery Insure
After surviving an attempted hijacking last night, I managed to get my damaged car home—shattered windscreen, roof, and lights. Shaken, but determined, I logged a claim online. That’s when Discovery Insure’s complete lack of care became painfully clear. This morning, I received an automated email asking me to contact a consultant for assistance. She’s on leave. She gives me another contact, who I email—only to get an auto-reply saying the inbox isn’t monitored. I then call the call centre myself, after already having spent time at the police station. Eventually, I book my own car assessment. After all that, someone named Sundren calls offering help—well after I’ve done everything on my own. I explain the car is undrivable, with shattered glass covering the seats. He doesn’t listen. I still bring the car in, and the assessor confirms it’s not drivable. I ask Sundren to arrange a hire car. He tells me he’s contacted Avis. I follow up myself—Avis has no record of the booking. Sundren then tells me to take an Uber home. That’s how I ended up standing in the middle of a city street—emotionally drained, after a traumatic night—waiting for a ride I had to sort out myself. Halfway home, Avis finally calls. They only received my details an hour after Sundren claimed he had sent them. Is this what “world-class service” looks like? A company that we pay substantial premiums to, yet shows no compassion, no coordination, and no understanding of what its clients go through? I’ve dealt with multiple people, and none have taken responsibility or acted with urgency. This entire experience has been beyond disappointing—it’s been downright shocking. Discovery Insure has proven they have neither the systems nor the heart to take care of their clients. We will be moving our entire portfolio to a provider that actually cares. To date no one at Discovery Insure has called to check if everything is ok with the car , how did i drive it when it was undrivable and given the wrong advise , just another number!! To rich to care about clients , to stupid to give the right advise and probably getting paid big salaries for nothing!!!
221 replies
10 months ago
********* - Total Risk Administrators – Misleading, Unprofessional, and *************
********* - Total Risk Administrators – Misleading, Unprofessional, and ************* I am utterly appalled by the service I’ve received from Total Risk Administrators (TRA) regarding my medical gap cover. What was initially presented as a safety net for medical shortfalls has turned into a complete nightmare. When I signed up, I was informed that only pre-existing conditions would be subject to a waiting period. However, I was blindsided to discover that routine and essential procedures like a colonoscopy and gastroscopy are also now being denied due to a so-called waiting period. This was never disclosed to me upfront—neither in writing nor during the onboarding call. It feels like TRA conveniently applies waiting periods only when it suits them, leaving clients stranded when they need support the most. To make matters worse: • The staff are poorly trained, dismissive, and lack even the most basic understanding of their own policies. • There is zero accountability or willingness to assist when you raise legitimate concerns. • The entire experience has been frustrating, time-wasting, and emotionally draining. TRA’s handling of this situation is not just unprofessional—it’s *********. I strongly advise anyone considering them to rather invest in a reputable provider like Discovery Health, where transparency and client care are actually prioritised. This is not just a complaint—it’s a warning. If you value your health and peace of mind, stay far away from Total Risk Administrators.
168 replies
17 months ago
Subject: Exceptional Support and Service from Zolani M
I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding support I received from Zolani M during a challenging situation with my mailbox. After weeks of ongoing issues, Zolani went above and beyond to ensure a resolution. His commitment to customer service is truly remarkable. He took the time and effort, including after hours, to make multiple calls and exhaust every possible solution until the issue was fully resolved. Zolani's knowledge, expertise, and determination were evident throughout the entire process. He displayed a level of professionalism that not only reflects his deep understanding of the technical aspects but also his dedication to providing the best possible experience for clients. His proactive approach, combined with his clear communication, truly sets him apart. Zolani is a perfect example of the type of service that aligns with the values and commitment to excellence that Host Africa stands for. I would even suggest that he be considered for a management role, as he clearly knows how to handle complex situations and lead with confidence and care. Thank you again, Zolani, for your brilliant efforts and for restoring my trust in the process. Your hard work and persistence are deeply appreciated.
71 replies
18 months ago
Worst Email Hosting - No Resolution
Just moved my Domain over and can't understand why no one in that company can get my email hosting right, continuous issues with my business email hosting, can't send or receive emails! Such a massive impact and no urgency to resolve!
53 replies
21 months ago
Inactive Medical Aid on due date
Your brand and values have been a serious disappointment today, as a new client I expected far better. Your sales department was extremely quick to get the sale and make extreme promises however could not deliver. You have been around for 40 years yet cannot execute a new membership timeously as committed? My medical aid expired yesterday with my previous company and effective today Bonitas was supposed to be activated, only to hear from your sales staff that you have a backlog in underwriting. This delay is not only frustrating but has also placed my health and the well-being of my family at significant risk. The inability to access timely medical services has created a serious situation. The resulting stress and uncer*****y are taking a toll on our emotional and physical health. Additionally, the financial burden of covering medical expenses out-of-pocket, which we anticipated would be managed by our coverage, has added to our distress. In addition , I could travel to work today and my children to school! Do you understand the impact of your inability to deliver? I am deeply concerned about the impact this delay is having on our lives and urge you to expedite the activation process immediately. You do not take your client’s welfare and healthcare very seriously. Neither do you keep to your duty or promise below! • Always act in the best interests of you and your beneficiaries • Deliver outstanding service I look forward to a prompt resolution and a response detailing the steps being taken to resolve this issue.
56 replies
21 months ago
New Client - Medical Aid Inactive on due date
Your brand and values have been a serious disappointment today, as a new client I expected far better. Your sales department was extremely quick to get the sale and make extreme promises however could not deliver. You have been around for 40 years yet cannot execute a new membership timeously as committed? My medical aid expired yesterday with my previous company and effective today Bonitas was supposed to be activated, only to hear from your sales staff that you have a backlog in underwriting. This delay is not only frustrating but has also placed my health and the well-being of my family at significant risk. The inability to access timely medical services has created a serious situation. The resulting stress and uncer*****y are taking a toll on our emotional and physical health. Additionally, the financial burden of covering medical expenses out-of-pocket, which we anticipated would be managed by our coverage, has added to our distress. In addition , I could travel to work today and my children to school! Do you understand the impact of your inability to deliver? I am deeply concerned about the impact this delay is having on our lives and urge you to expedite the activation process immediately. You do not take your client’s welfare and healthcare very seriously. Neither do you keep to your duty or promise below! • Always act in the best interests of you and your beneficiaries • Deliver outstanding service I look forward to a prompt resolution and a response detailing the steps being taken to resolve this issue.
56 replies
121 months ago
Lack of Respect and Integrity
On the 19th of March 2016 i sent the below email to the customer service helpline and the manager of the restaurant , To date nothing has been done about the complaint and empty promises have been made to resolve this . The manner in which we were treated is disgusting and the fact that it was further ignored is worse. From: Rajah, Sharlene: Absa Sent: 29 March 2016 19:51 To: 'admin@papachinos.co.za' Cc: 'clearwater@papachinos.co.za' Subject: Complaint - Attention Corlet Evening I visited Papachinos on Saturday morning with my family from Durban . While my son was playing in the play area it seemed like he couldn’t make it to us to go to the toilet and peed on the on play area which he thought was grass. I completely understand that this was not moral and as a mother and parent I do not allow this type of behavior and my son was reprimanded once I found out about it . Though he is only 3 and a half years at this stage mistakes do happen with children and as adults we need to understand that , they do not do this on purpose. The manner in which the waiter approached me and advised me of what my son did was not moral and he’s behavior and approach was totally uncalled for . I was sitting at the table on the upper level when he walked my son toward me and said ‘does he belong to you “ I said yes . Then he said that ‘ he did he’s business on the playground “ I got up in shock and immediately said what happened , he said “ he peed on the playground and the customers are complaining ‘ . I was in total shock but even more embarrassed in which the manner I was approached. I then said to the waiter that I was not aware of what had happened and I am sorry and then reprimanded my son. The waiter was totally rude and arrogant when he approached me , as if I would have asked my son to do that on purpose and I knew about. He spoke loudly and could not even approach me respectfully and quietly to tell me what had happened. I had work colleagues sitting across the area who heard everything and they were also quite shocked in the manner in which this was handled over a toddler!! I would also like to know which other clients complained about this and what was the complaint ? I would also like to understand why the child minders did not stop him or bring him to me immediately . Even worse the waiter who served us started laughing at my son !! I am totally appalled , this is not how you treat people or children and I am on the verge of taking this to social media. It really saddened our entire weekend and made the situation worse than it really was. I immediately spoke to my son and left , and to be honest will never come back to a place that promises but does not deliver , especially when It comes to children . These are your main clients and if you cannot approach the parents or children with respect then that a very serious problem. I am disgusted by the service and what we thought was a great place turned out to be horrible . Sharlene Rajah
0 replies
Review Distribution
5 Star
1 (10%)
4 Star
0 (0%)
3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
9 (90%)