Dr. Karen D. Crissinger, MD

My son has been suffering from abdominal pain from an unknown source. His normal pediatrician recommended that I take him to a specialist. After seeing Dr. Karen Crissinger, her bedside manner was greatly lacking. She was extremely dismissive, nonchalant, and lacked any sign of empathy for my child. Her recommendations were to give my son Miralax at an unbelievable dose (she wanted him to have 6 bowel movements for the first few days then 3 per day for SIX MONTHS). He is only 5 years old. I was extremely worried about malnutrition that may result if I followed this regimen. She said there was no need to worry about malnutrition if I was giving him vitamins (which I was). I tried her method for a week. After seeing how her recommended treatment induced more pain for my son from the increased gastric activity and caused accidents at school that completely mortified him, I foolishly requested a follow-up appointment with her to request another approach to address the problem. Her recommendations were to stick to the original regimen. Angered and disappointed, yet again, by her poor bedside manner and unwillingness to modify the treatment, I have decided to seek a second opinion. I would never recommend Dr. Crissinger for anyone's child. I am looking for recommendations for a GOOD pediatric gastroenterologist in the Mobile, Hattiesburg, or Mississippi Gulf Coast area.

I hope that Dr. Crissinger reads these reviews and takes them seriously. My son was in the hospital for the 3rd time in 6 weeks with abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea. When she finally came in the room, she told him he "didn't look sick to her" and ordered a complete flush with Miralax. She then told us that he needed a psychiatric evaluation. Upon seeking out a competent physician in Pensacola, my son was diagnosed with stomach ulcers and intestinal ulcers. My child suffered emotionally at the hands of her callous behavior and complete disregard for his symptoms. Her bedside manner is certainly lacking and as a pediatric specialist, she should look into some compassion training. Her arrogance got in the way of treating my child. The best thing about this experience is that I learned how to advocate for my child and listen to my gut as a mother. We aren't all ignorant. Her complete lack of caring caused my child weeks of pain and discomfort. What a shame.