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My name is Katrina Brown. I enjoy spending time with my family. I enjoy walking - even more so now that I’ve had treatment on my legs.

What were your symptoms? How did they affect your daily life?

Before I had treatment, I was having restless legs at night. I hadn’t even realized how tired my legs were until after the treatment. I was having heavy, tired legs and just feeling the need to move my legs at night, just readjusting a lot as I was trying to fall asleep. Just the heaviness, the achiness, um, a lot of swelling after a day of activity when I didn’t have a chance to put my feet up and rest. I had some obvious varicose veins that I was concerned about.

How did you hear about Alsara Vein Clinic?

I’d seen a commercial about vein treatment, and so I just made a mental note to ask my Nurse Practitioner the next time I saw her, and she’s like 'Oh, yes, we can get that looked at'. And she referred be to Dr. Gupta.

What was your first impression of Alsara Vein Clinic?

After I came and saw Dr. Gupta and Kati and everyone for the consultation, I really liked the clinic. Everyone was very friendly. The clinic was nicely decorated, it’s pretty, and it smells good, and it’s always so calm and peaceful here. I really enjoy coming here… which sounds strange to say you really enjoy going for a medical treatment, but it’s just a nice, pleasant atmosphere.

How did you feel during and after your treatment?

I’ve had the laser treatment and the Varithena®. With the laser treatment, I don’t remember there being any pain. They do numb your leg as the procedure’s done – I mean, not your whole leg; it won’t be numb. They numb inside of the vein. And after the Varithena®, I didn’t feel anything. There was nothing whatsoever. Probably the most uncomfortable part was just wearing the stockings, and that’s so not a big deal. I have very sensitive skin and I get itchy from a band aid or a piece of tape, so, probably just the little band aid on there was the most irritating thing, ha!

Dr. Gupta does a good job of giving analogies to explain how your leaky veins affect the rest of your body, how it can affect your health long-term, and how – even if you can see and feel the problem – it could be lurking 'behind the walls' is what he would say! And the treatment was pretty much painless. Everyone made everything very clear before they did anything. Kati was very good at explaining what was going to happen and what she was doing. And as you’re getting the procedure, you’re able to see on the screen what Kati and Dr. Gupta are looking at and what’s taking place.

What are you able to do after treatment that you couldn’t do before?

I know for sure that I’m so much more active since I’ve gotten the treatment. And the swelling that I use to have before in my legs at the end of the day – if I was up doing anything at all, my legs would be so swollen by the end of the day that it would feel tight, and I would be just exhausted… like, I was ready for the day to be over. And now, the swelling has greatly changed – there’s not all that swelling in my legs at the end of the day. And it really helps me feel like you can go ahead and do something else the next day. You’re not going to be having to recover from a day of activity with a day of rest.

Now I feel like I can spend a whole day out shopping and running around without having to take time out to rest and put your feet up so that I’m not having swelling all day. I’m a lot more comfortable as I go about the things I do. Since I’ve had treatment, I’ve been able to walk; I’ve increased my walking between just my daily activities plus my exercise. I’ve been getting between five and seven miles of walking in a day, so I have so much more energy. I’m not flopping around like a fish at night anymore, ha hah!

I had two or three long veins that were visibly bulging, and now I can’t see those at all, so that’s great, ha! My legs look a lot better, for sure.

How would you describe Doctor Gupta?

Dr. Gupta is very friendly. I get the feeling that he’s probably a very good host when he has friends and family to his home because he’s always offering drinks, and he’s very good at simplifying things and putting them in basic, understandable terms. He always has an analogy for everything, and he takes the time to show you on the screen what he’s doing and why, and explain how this is good for your overall health in the long-term.

What is your impression of the staff at Alsara Vein Clinic?

The staff is wonderful. The first person I met was Kati, and she is amazing. She’s always calm and she’s really good at making you feel relaxed by caring on casual conversation. I felt like she was a friend as soon as I met her. She’s a hard worker. She really takes the time to make people feel comfortable. I was actually here one of the first days that Mia (Front Office Coordinator) came to work, which was pretty neat to see a new person on staff, and it was kinda fun to watch her as she’s progressed over the last few months working here.

How was your insurance coverage?

Insurance covered everything 100%. I believe my Nurse Practitioner checked to make sure that my insurance was accepted at Alsara, and there was never any problem. I believe they got pre-approval before any of the procedures, and I’ve never receive a bill or anything.

Would you recommend Alsara Vein Clinic to family or friends?

I would definitely recommend Alsara Vein Clinic. And I have recommended to my sister, my aunt, my grandmother that they come here. And actually, my first visit, I brought my mom along with me because I thought ‘Hey, we could make a day of it, go shopping, go out to eat’. And, we got to looking at the pictures, watching the video, and reading the information, and I said ‘Mom, I think you need treatment as well’. And she decided that that might be what was wrong with her legs. She’d been [previously] treated for several other medical conditions for her legs that the treatments never seemed successful. So I think, at the time, the doctors were looking at different issues and those weren’t her particular issues. So my mom did end up speaking to Dr. Gupta and he did the test on her, and she ended up pursuing treatment as well.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

My grandfather was a postal employee for many years and he always walked his route. As he got older, he had problems with his legs, and we were never really sure what the issue was. They got so bad that they ended up becoming infected, and he was in a wound hospital for several months. And after coming here to Alsara Vein Clinic, I realized by looking at the pictures that they had here that his medical condition probably was varicose veins that had went untreated for a year.

I had never really considered it a problem until I saw the commercial and realized it was a medical problem, not just a problem of wanting your legs to look good in the summer time. And when I saw the commercials, I realized ‘Oh, this might be an issue’. As I explored the issue further, after I came here for treatment, I realized that this was a medical issue for several people in both sides of my family.

I do wish I’d known about Alsara Vein Clinic and varicose vein treatment sooner. I feel like my legs are doing really well now, but there’s people in my family that I wish I could have told them about it sooner, and gotten treatment a lot sooner. I feel like mine happened just at the right time, but there are other people that I would like to have told even years ago.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Very professional and courteous.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Fantastic!!

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Excellent! Nice job!

What made you choose us?

Referral from Beth Booker.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Swollen legs, numbness, pain.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Flexibility [in legs] was poor. Pain and that I couldn't do normal exercises. Now feel that I have much better flexibility and movement.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Less swelling.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

Very personable staff from Doctor through everyone else. Felt very comfortable with the work done here. In spite of apprehension about the procedure, everything was explained so well that it went very smoothly, although my wife didn't fall for my exaggerated limp!

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Exellent / very friendly & enjoyable.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Greatest ever!!

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Very nice & informative.

What made you choose us?

My doctor suggested you.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Painful vein in the right leg. Swollen & horrible to look at.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

I've never stopped doing anything different.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

My leg looks & feels 100% Better.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I appreciate everything your staff has done for me. Some of the Best & nicest people I've met in a long time. Everything has been explained very well and informative.  Please don't make any changes! All of you are very pleasant to be around.  I thank you very much for everything..

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My name is Lawerence Matt; I go by Larry Matt. My partner and I run a restaurant here in St. Joe and we have for 32 years: The Cabbage Roll, a german restaurant. Very good, excellent food. I cook all the time and Andy helps me cook.

What were your symptoms? How did they affect your daily life?

I could hardly walk. I started with a cane, walking with a cane. Then I went to a walker, then I went to a wheel chair. I just couldn’t get around, period. And so I went to the hospital here in St. Joe, they sent us to Kansas City, then they sent us to Mayo [Clinic] in Rochester [MN]. They told me ‘The only thing you can do is go home and do physical therapy’. And I did physical therapy for like a month, which it helped a little bit, but I still couldn’t get around the way I knew I should be able to get around.

How did you hear about Alsara Vein Clinic?

So, then Bill and Sharon Luce told me about the doctor, [Dr.] Gupta, and said ‘They’ve done wonders with my legs. Why don’t you go try them?’ So I did, and this is the first place that ever did anything. It just was wonderful.

How did you feel during and after your treatment?

The first time he worked on my legs… I never could walk [before]. I had to go and use the scooters in stores and that, and after he did the first treatment, we went to Sam’s Club – I walked the whole store; went to Walmart – I walked the whole store. Of course, I was exhausted, but at least I could do it! And that was wonderful.

What was your first impression of Alsara Vein Clinic?

Out here was really the first time anybody actually said something was wrong. Nobody ever told me anything was wrong [before], and I knew something was. After the first consultation, it was just wonderful, you know, he’s so personable. He’s really a nice guy.

How did you feel during and after your treatment?

Well, during the procedure, I was skeptical to say the least. And then I said ‘Well, what are you going to do? How exactly are you going to do these veins in my legs’? And, so, he told me and, you know, I thought ‘well, that’s kinda goofy what you have to do to ‘em’ [laughs]! But it was great. I mean, he put some glue [VenaSeal™] in some of them, and put… [laughing] he had this can of stuff [Varithena®], foam stuff, and I said ‘hell, that foam stuff, I can go to Lowe’s and get a can of that stuff you spray for your house for cracks, ha ha ha!’

I had some pain, but not much. It was really, really kinda painless almost compared to some of the other stuff [other] people wanted to do, but it was fine. There wasn’t a lot that had to be done, really, for after-treatment care. I mean, I’d just… I’d come back here and they’d check me over [with ultrasound] and everything was fine. Yeah, after it was finished, we went to… and I walked the whole store – I didn’t need to use a cane, a walker, or my wheelchairs. It was really wonderful just walkin’ around, not having to… I mean, I love the scooters, though; they’re fun… but I didn’t have to use any of them, that was the best part. If I needed to, I had them all, but I didn’t have to use them.

How would you describe Dr. Gupta?

Dr. Gupta’s very professional and he knows what he’s doing. He explains everything to you; with a lot of doctors, they really don’t do that anymore. But, yeah, he’d stand there or sit there and he would explain to me what he was going to do, which I like that, and he had monitors that you could watch what he was doing. It was really, really nice.

What was your impression of the staff at Alsara Vein Clinic?

Oh, your staff is wonderful. They treat you like family. They’re really great. Kati, she’s kinda goofy, ha ha ha, but she’s good, ha ha ha! But, yeah, your staff is wonderful.

How did you feel after your treatment?

This is the only place that they’ve actually helped me, was here with Dr. Gupta at your vein clinic. I mean, nobody else really helped me do something with my legs except Dr. Gupta. I finally got answers as to why this is going on with my legs, so that was great, too.

How have the treatments changed your life?

The treatments have changed my life. I’m able to walk and do things I couldn’t do over a year ago. I can walk, I can do… I can’t dance yet, but I never could dance, so [laughs] that didn’t help much! But, ah, no, it was great.

How was your insurance coverage?

I never had a single problem with insurance coverage, not a bit. They just take care of it. Well, because I have a primary which is Medicare, and then I have my supplement, And, no, there have never been any questions with the insurance at all. So that’s wonderful, too [laughs].

Would you recommend Alsara Vein Clinic to family or friends?

Oh, yes, I’ve mentioned it to everybody that has something wrong with their legs to come out here. At least get a [free] consultation, you know. But I know they can do wonders for you.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

The best thing about Dr. Gupta is that he explains everything to you. Not like some doctors that don’t do that. And he said ‘Your veins in your legs are just like highways, where you have some that have off-ramps’ – all kinds of stuff like that – ‘and we’re going to block it off, and in this vein, we’re going to put stuff in [VenaSeal™] so that it starts coming out this vein.’ The way he explained it ‘like a highway’ you can understand what he means, and that was great that way. He explains everything to you – I like that. And he knew right away what the heck was wrong [with my legs]. Well, how come one doctor knows that, and none of these other doctors know anything about it? So, I came out here [to Alsara Vein Clinic] and been out here ever since – not going to anybody else, ha ha ha ha ha!

Swelling in the legs can be a sign of poorly functioning veins in the legs. When veins fail, blood that normally flows upwards toward the heart is pulled by gravity to pool inside the legs. The backflow, called venous reflux, strains the vein walls and blood plasma leaks out into the surrounding space in the legs leading to swelling in the feet, ankles, and calves. Leg swelling and associated skin changes are termed chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Modern treatment options available for the treatment of the diseased veins are safe, effective, and require no downtime. Almost all insurance companies offer coverage for the treatment of symptomatic vein problems.

Edema is primarily noted at the end of the day that improves with leg elevation. Left untreated, the accumulation of fluid inside the legs overwhelms the lymphatic system which works as a safety valve to move excess fluid out of the legs and becomes phlebolymphedema. Fluid accumulation in the leg is a combination of plasma and protein-rich fluid that triggers an inflammatory reaction and fibrosis (hardening of the skin and soft tissue) which is irreversible. Treatment of lymphedema is limited to manual compression therapy and lifelong use of compression garments.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Good.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Good.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Good.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Good.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Good.

What made you choose us?

My regular doctor sent me to this clinic.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Phlebitis, burning, heaviness in leg.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Hard time sleeping, swelling, trouble walking up stairs, restless legs.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

No burning, no restless [legs], able to walk upstairs, no swelling.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I appreciated the kindness towards me. The doctor explaining everything so I could understand it. Nothing better, everything was good.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Polite and efficient.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Polite and efficient.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Thorough info, kind, professional.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Polite and efficient.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Polite and efficient.

What made you choose us?

Advertisement at festival / people with handouts.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Restless leg. Swelling, aching, foot cramps.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Restless leg kept me awake.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Decreased restless leg, no swelling, less aching.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

The ultrasound technologist was wonderful! She was professional, friendly, supportive, and kind. She explained the process step by step. She and Dr. Gupta worked well as a team. Kati called attentively to check on me/my status. Thanks to all for a painless & effective treatment and follow up.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Always courteous, helpful, and able to explain fees & billing.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Very kind, makes you feel comfortable.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Very patient, willing to educate regarding treatment.

What made you choose us?

We met in person and I felt very confident in the provider and staff the day I met them.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Edema in bilateral extremities, restless legs. Some achiness, discoloration, and varicose veins.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

My legs would get swollen by the end of the workday. I experienced restlessness at night and pain in my lower legs. I am now more comfortable at the end of the day and no longer have restless painful achiness during the night.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Better circulation and color in the legs. Minimal swelling, less restlessness and heaviness.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I always feel like my concerns are heard. I felt like Dr. Gupta takes time to explain all procedures and the expected outcome. Kati is always very attentive and goes out of her way to make me feel comfortable and at ease. She know the procedures well and keeps me informed. I appreciate having quality state of the art care so close to home.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Excellent! The girls are very kind.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Wonderful.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Great, nice, and excellent workers.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Great job.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Great job.

What made you choose us?

I had pain in my legs and my doctor, Doctor Rivas, referred me to this clinic.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Pain in my legs, swelling, bulging veins, and headache.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

I had problems [walking] and when I [would] stand up, [I} got pain and swelling. Now, I don't have any pain, and I don't have any bulging veins.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

It changed a lot, and I don't feel any pain and I can walk well.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I appreciate all you do for me. Thanks for helping me. All looks good. And your service is wonderful. Nice people; your kind[ness] makes me feel like in a family. All of you do excellent work.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Always polite & helpful.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Very good - explains & answers questions.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Dr. Gupta is a very kind, professional with his patients [who are] always put first.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Very good.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Very good.

What made you choose us?

Went to Dr. Gupta's seminar. Very informative.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Itching, pigmented skin, some swelling [in legs].

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Less swelling, pigmented areas more feathered, still some itching.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

See previous answer.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

Excellent Dr. Gupta & staff always looking out for the best interest of the patient. Friendly & very helpful to answer any questions. Dr. Gupta takes his time with you and explains procedures in a "down to earth" fashion. Very caring!.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Excellent - made me feel "at home".

Ultrasound Technologist:

Excellent - explained any questions I had.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Excellent - explained procedures well.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Great with calls and welcoming questions.

What made you choose us?

My nurse practitioner said you were using the "up-to-date" techniques that [another clinic] still did not use.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Level 4 of the 6 Levels – my polio specialist said I needed treatment when I returned from Virginia to St. Joseph.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

I look forward to trying to go without compression stockings I have worn for 3 years. I love the feel of the stockings; so I may continue to wear them after the trial period without them.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

The spider veins are lessened in color and the deep purple color around the ankle is now lavender in color.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I appreciated the procedure without pain–any pain afterward. I expected some pain but I ended up not even needing to take ibuprofen!!!! That's phenomenal for a pain freak like me. Many, many thanks for such good care.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Excellent. Everyone works so well for the benefit of the patient.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Excellent Everyone works so well for the benefit of the patient.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Excellent Everyone works so well for the benefit of the patient.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Excellent Everyone works so well for the benefit of the patient.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Excellent Everyone works so well for the benefit of the patient.

What made you choose us?

Recommended by my primary health nurse practitioner, Beth Booker.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Pain in my left leg and swelling in the leg.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

The vein problems were originally masked with the polio syndrome problems. Dr. Gupta found the vein problems and the pain stopped. I truly appreciate the careful care of me.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

No pain!!! No swelling!!!

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I deeply appreciate the staff coming in twice during the pandemic shut down to handle my problems. After the procedures when I had no pain, I knew things had worked. Everyone was gracious. I could not have asked for a more competent, caring team. Thank you!

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Amanda was very helpful & pleasant. All the front staff was!

Ultrasound Technologist:

Kati is wonderful. She put me at ease. Very friendly.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Dr. Gupta is wonderful. I trust his knowledge & ability.

What made you choose us?

The information clinic that I attended one Saturday answered most of my questions. I appreciated the time they gave us.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Swelling in the ankles, discoloration at the back of the left leg. Pain at that area. Legs hurting when elevated. I had to move them to get them comfortable.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Legs hurt when I elevated them at night. But now they don't. Swelling has gone down.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Swelling in the ankles has gone down.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I appreciated the whole experience. I brought my sister-in-law because she wanted to help me. She has been through the same thing at a KC facility. She said Dr. Gupta & the staff were much more informative than her team in K.C. She learned a lot just being with me. I also noticed from the first visit that the Alsara Vein Clinic is so clean and welcoming. I appreciate all of you!

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Always friendly and called me by name.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Friendly, answered all questions.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Very knowledgeable and friendly & caring.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Great.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Helpful and timely.

What made you choose us?

A friend recommended you.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Tired legs, some cramping, general achiness, feet, and ankle swelling.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

The main thing I couldn't do was climb a lot of stairs and walk long distances. [After treatment,] swelling is much less, aches are gone, no cramping.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Generally feel better, don't tire as quickly, no pain or cramps.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

Friendliness, concern for my comfort, explaining my issues and treatment fully.

Click to Play Video

My name is Peggy Brumfield. I work as a Speech Pathologist – in a nursing home right now. I started out working in schools and I worked there for, I think, 18 years. And then I was getting kind of… wanting something else, and got the idea to go into the nursing home situation and I really enjoy it a lot. I’m a mother, a grandmother, and a great grandmother now. And I enjoy my family a lot. I’m very busy with my family, and work, and church activities, and all of those kind of things.

What were your symptoms? How did they affect your daily life?

I have had symptoms of vein problems for a very long time. But I also have fibromyalgia, and I attributed most of my problems to the fibromyalgia because I have different issues with pain. And, so, my legs were often… they hurt quite a bit. Any pressure on them was uncomfortable. And, even like, I quit wearing hose a long time ago. I just wore pants to cover up my legs and not have to go through the discomfort of putting on pantyhose.

I was having terrible cramps in the tops of my legs, and it would wake me up at night. And I’m not having those anymore. I had a lot of edema, and I don’t have as much problem with that anymore. It’s helped that a lot. Also, I had a lot sensitivity in my legs; um, the pressure; the pain of that, so, it’s been… and the tiredness in my legs, just feeling heavy and tired, and difficult to walk and move around. Those were the kind of things that I was dealing with as far as pain.

I also had… as far as symptoms, I had cellulitis often, and that was really bad. I ended up having to go to the doctor and get some antibiotics to take care of it. It made my legs uncomfortable and discolored. As I said, I attributed most of these things to my fibromyalgia, or to whatever. I also had concerns about my legs because my father had a lot of problems with his legs. He retired early from the Post Office because he couldn’t be on his feet all the time. And his were so bad that, at one point, he had terrible sores and had to be in a special hospital for wound care. And, so, I always kind of had a concern, you know: ‘could that happen to me later?’, but I didn’t know what to do about it.

How did you hear about Alsara Vein Clinic?

The reason that I came to Alsara, originally, was that my daughter had been to the doctor. She had some veins that were uncomfortable and did not look well. They were kind of bulging and stuff. And her Nurse Practitioner recommended that she come to Alsara. I came along with her to give her moral support. And, so, we actually went into the room together, and the doctor started talking to her about the treatment, about… just all of the general information about everything. And as he was presenting the information and we were looking at materials, I thought ‘oh my gosh, this is what I need! I should probably have this even more than she should, especially at this point in my life’. And, so, we went ahead and brought that up, and he said ‘Yes, let’s check it out’. And, so, he did, and it was the best thing, I mean, I had no idea about coming to the vein clinic. It’s been very helpful for me. I am thankful that I had the treatments. My legs feel so much better now. And, I haven’t had cellulitis in quite some time. I hope that’s in the past now. I hope that’s not going to happen to me. The cellulitis; I had never really known what to do about that beyond… well, I also have diabetes, and, so, I had attributed some of my problems to the diabetes, and to the fibromyalgia, and maybe even to my weight, or, you know, whatever. I had no idea that cellulitis was making things even worse, and, so, that was a wonderful side effect of all of this, because I didn’t realize I didn’t have to have cellulitis and have those problems. As a matter of fact, we were here, she had had her consultation, they’d done the scan on her and everything, and when they were out of the room, my daughter looked at me and said ‘I think you need this,’ and I said ‘I’m afraid I do, too’.

And, I was a little apprehensive, ‘cause I just didn’t know… like I said, I’m very sensitive: anything to do with my legs really hurt, and I didn’t know how it was going to be for them to work on my legs to make them better. But they suggested, you know, ‘You’re here. Do you want to go ahead and check it out?’ And I said ‘yes, let’s do it’.

How did you feel during and after your treatment?

They did the scan that day, and explained to me what they saw and how it could be helped with the treatments. And, so, we set up appointments, coming up. I came. They treated both legs, so I came different times; came for one leg, and then for the other. Once again, they told me they were going to put on a stocking, and I was like ‘Oh no!’. Ha ha! ‘Kati’s going to put a stocking on my leg’ and I can’t say I was very excited about that either, ha ha! But, in the long run, yes, it was a very good thing!

They did a wonderful job of explanations. It was interesting for me because they have the screen that you can see, and you can see what they’re seeing on their [ultrasonic] doppler or whatever you call their screen. And, so, it was a little uncomfortable for me but it wasn’t terrible, it wasn’t really bad. Like I said, I was just so sensitive. I don’t know if other people… my daughter didn’t seem to be bothered by it much at all. And, so, they did the scans and showed me what was going on. And then, when we came back and they did the treatment, it was very interesting. And it’s very interesting when the doctor explains it to you, and he tells you ‘well, you can see this on here’. And, his descriptions… I just can’t say enough about his descriptions, and his analogies of what everything is like ‘leaky pipes in the walls’. Ha ha, I really like that, ha ha!

Right after those treatments on my legs, the first ones, it was a little uncomfortable. I had to wear those [compression] stockings, and I think I hated messing with the stockings on my legs more than I did anything else. My legs were not very uncomfortable at all as far as what treatment they had done. And that was just for a few days, and then the leg would get better, and then I came for the other one. And, now, I’ve recently came and had other treatments done, and those have been… nothing; it was no big deal at all. And, I have taken to wearing some compression stockings all the time. That’s one of the things the doctor pointed out to me, and that’s been very helpful. And, so, I wear those all the time, and that’s good. And I believe that it has really saved me from what could have been a really bad series of conditions with my legs.

As I mentioned before, I work in a nursing home, and I see patients there that are in some pretty bad conditions with their legs, and I think, you know, if they could have known or they could have had treatment, they might not end up with those kind of problems, too… it’s really hard.

What are you able to do after treatment that you couldn’t do before?

Things that I can do now that I couldn’t do before is, for one thing, just being more comfortable in my life, day-to-day. I am able to walk. In my work, I spend periods of time sitting and then getting up and walking, you know, going up and down the halls and that kind of stuff, and I used to think that that was some exercise – I suppose it is a little bit, but not like ‘exercise’ exercise. But, um, I am able to walk more easily now and more comfortably. And, I can rest better at night because my legs don’t hurt. They used to often throb and feel just enough discomfort that it would disturb me, especially as I was trying to go off to sleep. Sometimes they would disturb me through the night; I would be uncomfortable. So, I could say that I’m able to do my day-to-day things better now, and also to rest better than I did before.

How would you describe Dr. Gupta?

I like Dr. Gupta because he’s very gentle. He seems like a very gentle, caring person. And I like the way that he makes you comfortable by explaining what’s going on, by telling you what to expect, and by telling you what to do next, and, you know, just… I don’t know, he’s just a very comfortable, very genuine, very caring doctor. And, I just remembered that he said ‘I decided that I wanted to help people so that they could treated and be taken care of, and not have to have these conditions later’. And, so, that’s why he specialized, I guess, in taking care of vein treatment. And I think that was a blessing. He was really led to do that. Because I believe it is going to make a difference instead of causing me to end up in those serious conditions. I really enjoy Dr. Gupta’s descriptions. He is just… he does a great job of explaining what’s going on and whit’s going on. It’s just very, very comfortable with him.

What is your impression of the staff at Alsara Vein Clinic?

And, Kati, working with him is great. She makes me feel comfortable when she’s there doing, you know, the prepping, and talking to me, and checking out everything. So, the staff has always been really good to me. I really enjoy that. I really like the staff here. From the people that you talk to when you call in on the phone, they’re very helpful. Everyone took good care of checking out the insurance things for me.

How was your insurance coverage?

Unfortunately, my insurance said at the beginning that they would pay for it, however, I had an insurance with a large deductible, and so I ended up paying quite a bit of money at the beginning. But, you know, even at the time, I didn’t doubt that I should go ahead and do that because it seemed like it was what I was going to need. And, so, that wasn’t as painless as it could have been. But that was not anything to do with the staff – that was about my insurance. And, so, I was glad for their help to check out the insurance and what they were going to pay, and then they explained to me what it was going to be, and I was able to take care of that.

What was your impression of the staff at Alsara Vein Clinic?

Kati is wonderful. She’s called me in-between times to check up on me. And, she’s always just so friendly just easy to talk to. And, it’s great to also know that when I come here, I feel like everybody’s, like, ‘Oh, yes, there’s Peggy. Yes, how are you doing? How is this?’ [They] remember things about me from when I was here before. It’s like a family or a caring group of people that are working together and know about you, and want to make you feel comfortable and at-ease, and all that kind of stuff.

Would you recommend Alsara Vein Clinic to family or friends?

I definitely would recommend someone to Alsara Vein Clinic. I’ve tried to get my mother to come up here. She is 83 years old, and she’s having a lot of discomfort in her legs from varicose veins, and she is reluctant to come. But every time we come up here, we tell her ‘We’re going to the vein clinic, and I’d really wish you’d go and just see what Dr. Gupta can do for you, because I think he could help you’. But she’s afraid to; she’s afraid it would be too uncomfortable. And, we’ve told her ‘It wasn’t that bad for us. We’re glad that we’ve done it,’ but she’s reluctant.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I definitely wish that I had known about this earlier. I wish that someone had talked to me about vein treatment before. I’m not sure how it’s escaped all this time that I haven’t known about it? And, I feel fortunate – blessed – that the doctor sent my daughter [here], and I came with her, because I don’t know if I would have ever found out. And, it’s frightening to me to think that I could have gone on to what I’ve seen some people go through with the problems that come from the vein problems. I’m feeling much better. I haven’t had cellulitis in quite a while, and edema is much better. Um, I’m feeling a lot better.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Very good.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Friendly and knows her stuff!

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Very polite.

What made you choose us?

My wife and I saw your ad on TV and called for an appointment, thinking it could help with my swollen legs.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Swelling & heaviness in the left leg, with discoloration or, as I call them, "rust spots".

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

When getting into my truck, I would have to lift my left leg. I couldn't lift it with just leg muscles. Now, I can get in with no trouble.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Less swelling, more strength.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Excellent.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Excellent.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Excellent.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Excellent.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Excellent.

What made you choose us?

The News you were on.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Heaviness, big veins, swelling.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

[I was] embarrassed to wear shorts. I could not ride my bike. [After treatment] my leg feels young again.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

No heaviness, no pain, no swelling, no tiredness.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I love how you guys made me important. You guys care a lot for patients.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Friendly, helpful.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Friendly, thorough.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Friendly, explained clearly.

What made you choose us?

Saw ad on TV.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Cramping, slight swelling.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Severe cramping, tired walking stairs. [Now I] can do 14 min. max training no problem.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

Not tired.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

[You] took time to explain things in detail. [The procedure] was almost painless. Glad I had it done.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

The Front Desk was very friendly and helpful..

Ultrasound Technologist:

Explained everything she was doing. Love the service.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Was very concerned that everything was done.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Great service.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Great service.

What made you choose us?

Advertisement.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Leg cramps, pain, swelling, restless legs.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do?

I could not walk very far without hurting, loss of sleep.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

No restless legs, can walk without hurting. No cramps.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

Everyone was very friendly and informed me of what I needed to do. I appreciated being told what the colors on the [ultrasound] screen meant. I was very confident about my before and after care.

Please describe your experience with us:

Front Desk staff:

Very courteous and helpful.

Ultrasound Technologist:

Very professional and informative.

Provider/Doctor/Nurse Practitioner:

Excellent job of explaining the process.

Billing/Patient Account Services:

Very efficient, with no complications.

Call Center/Patient Service Center:

Very courteous and helpful.

What made you choose us?

I was introduced to the organization through a health fair.

What symptoms were you experiencing?

Heaviness in my legs, spider veins, swelling.

How were you affected by your legs previously? What couldn't you do? How has that changed now?

Swelling, heaviness. My legs would be tired. [After treatment] minimal to no swelling or heaviness, more energy.

What improvements have you seen in your legs?

My legs feel really good. I have minimal to no swelling or heaviness.

Additional Comments: What did you appreciate? What makes us different than other medical clinics? What could we have done better to exceed your expectations? What changes would you like to see?

I thought the staff on all levels had excellent customer service skills and were very helpful. Dr. Gupta did an excellent job of explaining the vein process & procedures. I would recommend your services to others.