Like many people, I do not enjoy being a patient in a hospital – even for a joyous occasion like the birth of my children. In December 2006, I was very nervous about the prospects of having a C-section to deliver our twins. Thankfully, my nervousness soon disappeared thanks to the competent and compassionate care I received from my anesthesiologist, Dr. Gerald Maccioli.
While holding my hand, Dr. Maccioli eased my fears and apprehension as he explained the entire procedure, including the spinal epidural he would place. Dr. Maccioli not only had great technical anesthesia skills (the spinal worked great and there were no side effects), he had a comforting bedside manner. I am a person who likes to be in control and know what is going on with my care. Dr. Maccioli somehow sensed this and responded by talking me through the entire birth process. When our second twin was born, she did not cry and was rushed from the room. Sensing my panic, Dr. Maccioli left my side and promised to check on my daughter. When he quickly returned to inform me that she would be fine, I was not only relieved but very appreciative of Dr. Maccioli’s sincerity in caring for both my physical and emotional needs as a patient.
I am not sure how common it is for a patient to request a specific anesthesiologist. I can assure you, however, that when I returned to the hospital two years later to give birth to our third child, I made a special request for Dr. Maccioli, and again, he did not disappoint. I am very thankful that our community is blessed with great anesthesiologists like Gerald Maccioli.