Shakthi Health and Wellness - Mt. Airy — Local services in Mount Airy

I felt pressured to sign a 12 month contract on my very first office visit even though they knew that I lived over an hour's drive away. I felt that in order to receive good medical care I had to comply because Dr. Rao said that this contract was necessary. Also they were constantly trying to sell me things. I don't recall them being honest & upfront about the apparent conflict of interest (potential) when they "recommended" any item that they were selling. It was typically a single brand that they sold and recommended and typically it was one that I have never heard of. Also, when they sold me a concierge "package" they included "free" treatments that in hindsight appeared to be a "bait and switch" offer: The "free" acupuncture sessions were performed with my being fully dressed, very few needles, and only my shoes and socks off. Neither I nor the person who recommended them could believe this. Typically acupuncturists place a multitude of needles throughout the body. Needless to say that I didn't ask for another "free session". I feel that I was not only manipulated by sales pressure, but also that I didn't know the limits of the services that would be eventually provided. I signed for a year of fees - and after 8 months of these "services" - I can regretfully say that I didn't get what I expected and felt that they were stingy with their time: They appeared to be grudging and reluctant, prefering minimal engagement with a patient and seeking phone appointments even when an in-person appointment was agreed on. I paid about $900 for products. They sold me a synthetic B supplement right after I told Dr. Rao that I preferred wholefoods based ingredients and I felt sick to my stomach from this synthetic purchase. As a new patient I bought it, trusting that they would be selling me the very best product tailored for my individual needs, but it wasn't. And weeks after specifically asking not to be sold such supplements, their staff continued to push me to buy supplements. The pushing of products from the very first appointment hurt the innocence and trust that I had. I could never be sure if the expensive series of tests, or referrals recommended provided financial incentives. Within about a month I regretted signing the contract after being told that the imaging script that I requested required me to show up in-person. Because this required a minimum of a two hour drive (back and forth). It would have been wise for them to allow a "remorse period" and not to bind clients into a contract with unspecified "late fees" if payments were behind schedule. In December 2019 matters have gotten significantly worse. After they suggested by email that I was asking "too many" questions and that I needed more "focus" I wrote to them that I felt discouraged from communicating. Instead of reaching out, I felt that their response felt hurtful. That was the final blow. Also, months into the contract Dr. Rao told me "I can't help you with mold" issues - but mold sensitivity ultimately, is what I was diagnosed with by a mold and allergy expert and the expensive "Nutra Eval" tests were not actually necessary to arrive at the proper diagnosis and treatment regimen. And yet I felt compelled to sign a 12 month contract on the premise that they could effectively treat my condition. Thankfully, they agreed to release me from the contract and this was a relief. I feel that it is better to not make customers feel trapped in a contract, this way there is mutual good will between provider...

I have been a patient of Dr Rao for the past six years and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the moment you walk into the office or meet with her virtually, you're met with a warm and welcoming environment. The staff including Kelly and Emma are incredibly considerate and empathetic, always happy to answer questions and address any concerns you may have. They even go above and beyond by returning messages promptly, usually within the same day, which is a rarity these days.

Dr. Rao herself is truly a gem. Her intelligence and expertise are evident from the moment she starts talking, but what truly sets her apart is her genuine care for her patients. She takes the time to listen attentively to your concerns and never makes you feel rushed. Her bedside manner is exceptional, putting you at ease and truly making you feel like you're in good hands.

Unlike my experiences with past providers, where diagnoses felt rushed and symptoms dismissed, Dr. Rao took the time to understand my unique situation. She was able to accurately diagnose what other doctors couldn't and, more importantly, offer a treatment plan that effectively alleviated my symptoms.

If you're looking for a doctor who goes above and beyond, who truly cares about her patients, and who can effectively address your health concerns, then look no further than Dr. Rao. You won't be...

From my very first call with Dr. Rao, I knew I had found the right partner for my long COVID journey. She guided her approach with three key principles:

1. She collaborated closely with me, respecting that I knew my own body and understood what was happening within it.

2. Dr. Rao brings incredible expertise to her practice, staying up-to-date on all the latest research and various treatment options. She shared relevant research with me,, empowering me to make informed decisions.

3. She is open to every treatment avenue, from allopathic to Eastern and holistic medicine, always focused on treating me as a whole person—both mind and body—recognizing how deeply they impact one another.

When facing a challenging illness, half the battle is finding the right doctor. I can’t imagine a better partner over this past year...