Christine Professional Health Care

Pros

• She was a great listener.
• She was very nice.
• She answered all their questions completely.
• They left knowing their next steps.

Cons

• The reviewer felt the provider was not responsive at all and failed to communicate necessary information.
• The reviewer perceived Christine G Hedstrom, PA-C, as dismissive and disrespectful, including an attitude and implying the patient was an idiot.
• The provider did not greet the patient, giving a negative first impression.
• The reviewer felt disrespected and that their case would not be treated with care, respect, or dignity.
• The reviewer would not return and planned to seek another provider who treats patients with respect and dignity.
• The review ends with a strong warning: "Run!"

Review

The account presents a blend of frustration, confusion, and a few glimmers of positive interpersonal interaction, all centered on an experience at a North Memorial facility and a specific encounter with Christine G Hedstrom, PA-C. On balance, the overall impression conveyed is that responsiveness was lacking and the process felt disjointed, with the reviewer left dissatisfied about how care was accessed and how they were treated in the moment. There is a sense that the experience was not only about medical decisions but also about the tone and demeanor of the people involved, which colored the entire visit.

One part of the narrative offers a counterpoint to the negative impressions, describing a moment when the reviewer felt heard and helped. In that portion, someone described as "a great listener, and very nice" is credited with addressing all questions and providing clear next steps. This optimistic snippet suggests that within the same practice, there can be positive and helpful interactions that leave patients feeling informed and supported after a visit. The contrast between that positive note and the subsequent encounter with a different provider within the same general setting appears to be a recurring theme in the account, underscoring how variable patient experience can be within the same clinic or network.

The reviewer goes on to detail a specific aim: obtaining a referral to see a neurologist. They believed that to access neurology services, a referral from a primary care physician would be necessary, a common expectation in many health systems. They scheduled what they could find at North Memorial, specifically a first appointment with Christine Hedstrom, PA-C, located about 35 minutes away from their home. In preparation for the visit, they uploaded documents, insurance information, and questions or comments to streamline the process, signaling a desire for efficiency and a smooth transition into specialty care. The steps described reflect a conscientious effort to navigate the referral process and minimize friction for everyone involved.

The core negative experience centers on the actual encounter with Christine Hedstrom. The provider's entrance into the room is described with a sharply critical first impression: she asks, "why are you here to see me, when you should have went to the ER," accompanied by a facial expression described as conveying contempt or dismissal. The reviewer characterizes this as an attitude that bordered on insulting, painting a picture of a clinician who appeared to question the legitimacy of the patient's needs rather than acknowledge them. The dynamic intensified when the reviewer's spouse spoke up on behalf of the patient, asserting the necessity of a referral for a first seizure. The insistence that they were there because this clinician was the appropriate doctor to consult appeared to clash with the initial impression of the need for a referral, creating an uncomfortable tension in the room.

Beyond the tone, the encounter is described as lacking basic courtesy, with no initial greeting or warm welcome. The absence of a simple "hello" or acknowledgement set a disappointing tone from the outset. The reviewer interprets this moment as emblematic of a broader issue: even if medical expertise appears available, the interaction can severely undermine trust and comfort if patients feel dismissed or treated as if they are an inconvenience rather than a partner in their own care. The language used to describe the moment emphasizes a personal perception of disrespect and a lack of dignity in the way the interaction unfolded.

In reflecting on the outcome, the reviewer expresses a clear decision not to return to that provider. The experience was framed as a reminder that "every case is different and unique," but the response they received did not align with the care they were seeking. The closing sentiment is one of resolve to pursue another provider who would treat patients with the respect and dignity they expect and deserve. The reviewer ultimately states that they will seek care elsewhere, signaling a decision to disengage from the current provider relationship and to pursue alternatives that align more closely with their expectations for patient-centered care and professional bedside manner.

Ultimately, the narrative paints a picture of mixed signals within the same care ecosystem, where one interaction could feel supportive and informative while another could feel dismissive and unsympathetic. The central thread is a call for improved responsiveness and better bedside manner, especially in contexts where patients are navigating referrals and urgent or emergent concerns. The reviewer's takeaway emphasizes not only the practical steps involved in obtaining specialty care but also the fundamental importance of respectful, patient-centered communication as a core component of quality care. The final message is a cautionary note to others: be mindful of how you are treated and prepared to seek a provider who will balance clinical competence with genuine respect for patients' needs and dignity.

This part of Blaine, Minnesota offers a variety of amenities and services that may appeal to seniors looking for a convenient and vibrant community. With multiple pharmacies, restaurants, physicians offices, and hospitals within a short distance, residents can easily access healthcare and dining options. The presence of theaters and cafes provides opportunities for entertainment and socialization. Additionally, the proximity to parks allows for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The transportation options such as Lino Air Park offer convenience for those who may need to travel. Overall, this area of Blaine offers a well-rounded environment with resources that cater to the needs and interests of older adults.

Pharmacies

• Walgreens (0.6 miles)
• Walgreens (1 miles)
• Walgreens (2.4 miles)
• Walgreens (2.7 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.9 miles)
• Walgreens (4.3 miles)
• Walgreens (4.4 miles)

Restaurants

• Arby's (1 miles)
• Wild Bills Sports Saloon (1.2 miles)
• Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (1.3 miles)
• The Tavern Grill (1.3 miles)
• Shortstop Bar & Grill (1.5 miles)
• Invictus Brewing (1.7 miles)
• Blainbrook Entertainment Center (2.1 miles)

Physicians

• Twin Cities Orthopedics Blaine (1.3 miles)
• Multicare Associates (1.9 miles)
• Suburban Imaging (1.9 miles)
• Oakdale OBGYN (1.9 miles)
• Northtown Mall (2.4 miles)
• Pain and Brain Healing Center (3.4 miles)
• Aesthetic Reconstructive Plastic Surgery (3.7 miles)

Theaters

• AMC Coon Rapids 16 (1.3 miles)
• Andover Cinema (4.9 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (1.3 miles)
• Caribou Coffee (2.6 miles)
• Caribou Coffee (7.2 miles)
• Caribou Coffee (7.3 miles)

Places of Worship

• Ephiphany Catholic Church (3.1 miles)
• Fridley United Methodist Church (5.2 miles)
• North Heights Lutheran Church (7.1 miles)

Hospitals

• Unity Hospital (3.9 miles)
• Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center (7.1 miles)

Parks

• Pinebrook Park (4.3 miles)
• Lexington Athletic Complex (5 miles)
• Crooked Lake Park & Beach (5.3 miles)
• Riverdale Park (5.9 miles)
• Sunshine Park (6.4 miles)
• Ham Lake City Park (6.4 miles)
• Pennisula Park (7 miles)

Transportation

• Lino Air Park (6.2 miles)