Dr. Melissa Lauren Shapiro, M.D.

Special needs parents, beware.

We were 20 minutes late for our appointment today, so I understand why the doctor refused to see us.

That being said, we went through quite a bit to get there on time.  The directions were vague ("look for the red brick building" - only, they are all red brick buildings around that campus), there was no reception in the lobby, and the directory sent us to the 3rd floor - thankfully we found an office that could direct us to the actual location on the 4th floor, which isn't listed on the building directory or the paperwork they sent.  That cost us some time for sure, and it happens with new appointment, we get that.  The parking is what cost us the most time - the hospital lot is a bit of a nightmare, and it took 15-20 minutes (at least) to locate an available spot that could accommodate our wheelchair van (we were circling along with numerous other cars).  Again, that happens, I get it.

But, after taking the day to go see the doctor, getting loaded up in the van, driving there, trying to find the right building, then finding an open parking spot for the van, and then navigating the building itself, we were late, and the doc turned us away.  It happens, I know, and there is a 'policy' they have about it, which is their prerogative, but for us, the risk of going through all that again, and getting turned away again isn't worth it.  Doctors that don't care or understand, especially when they should know what a wreck that lot is, and those who give bad directions should be a little more understanding.

We thankfully got back to the van, got loaded up, and made it out of the lot with moments to spare to avoid having to pay (first 30 min free), but we won't be back.  This isn't the place for parents who have to deal with the uncertainties of navigating to the office, the lack of parking, and to risk being turned away after getting through all that.  There are doctors who do understand in Baltimore, and I think we just need a better fit for us.  So be warned, it's hard to get in, tricky to navigate, and you will get turned away if you're late.

p.s. Front reception was nice, but that didn't really help get the appointment done.

p.p.s - if you do risk it, it's the red brick building that's near the entrance, to the right of the ortho center, and they are in 407 (currently at least), the parking I can't help you with :)