Dr. James Fortune, MD

I was sent to Desoto baptist for surgery to remove my appendix. Dr Fortune was my surgeon. Most doctors, especially surgeons have ZERO bedside manner. He took the time to explain things to me and my husband. I knew what to expect before, during and after surgery. He was amazing!!

I went to the emergency room for an infection. The ER doc sought a surgical consult, from Dr Fortune, who admitted me before tests were even performed. He finally came to see me the following morning about 10 am, after not permitting me food or drink all the previous day and all night. When I sought explanation for his care plan...which including keeping me 2 or 3 more days on IV antibiotics, even though bloodwork showed my infection was not systemic. I was also to be kept NPO (no food or drink at all) until I was discharged "just in case" (even though I was not a surgical candidate based on the CT). When I pressed him on this, he told me things were on my CT report that were not. (I have a copy of the report). When I pressed on that issue, he leaned in, way too close for my comfort after I had already asked him to step back, and said "Look, you got enough reserves to last you.." (yes. I am fat). He is abusive. Run away, don't walk.

The worst excuse of a doctor I have ever encountered in my life..left me in the hospital 3 days without any pain meds or antibiotics to treat my intestional blockage and pneumonia. I had to leave the hospital still sick from both the blockage and pneumonia to get pain and antibiotics...he knew by the tests he had run that I was still not over the pneumonia or blockage...I went back for a follow up to ask him why he left me there for 3 days without nothing to ease the pain and he got nasty and told me to find another doctor should I ever need emergency services again...be got up and stormed out of the door and never gave me an explanation as to why he treated me with such abuse and neglect.

Excellent results. Answered questions and explained things well. Willing to talk things through. My first choice for anything surgical. Obviously does not feel the need to act as if he knows everything or has any need to prove himself. I find this a very good attitude, as these are the people willing to learn rather the arragant know-it-alls you find too often.

Dr. Fortune is an excellent surgeon. We enjoyed talking to him during the month-long stay in the hospital...very personable...answers questions...would highly recommend!

He is the worst doctor I have ever been to. He was negligent, cold, condescending, and did not listen to anything I said. He used intimidation tactics to get me to stop asking questions. He decided I was not a surgical candidate, then refused to allow the nurses to feed me for three days. They knew nothing about my treatment, because he refused to answer his pages. The GI specialists okayed my discharge, but he refused even though he didn't have any tests planned. Checked out AMA or lose my job.

He's a great surgeon he's experienced he took the time to answer my questions and concerns he explained my procedure and he was very through. I would definitely recommend him to family and friends.