Dr. Kathryn Berlacher, MD

I saw UPMC cardiologist Kathryn Berlacher MD during an official medical encounter at some point between 2019 and 2025. The encounter felt disconcerting. it took me awhile to figure out why and put into words. I feel I can say it now so others can feel validated because I can not be alone in my experience. The disorientation and doubt that I felt after “seeing” Dr Berlacher medically made sense only after reviewing her writings and statements that she herself posted online, on social media, and in public forums. I don’t think “just anyone” can expect to “see” this physician and still feel “safe” (at least emotionally and mentally). I do not recommend this doctor. I will not return to this clinic. I also intend to avoid the UPMC health system. Very upsetting.

I saw Dr. Burlacher while I was pregnant with my second child - she was warm and comforting as she evaluated my symptoms and confirmed that they were nothing to grow concerned over. She was patient and took time to address all of my questions.

Already recommended my adult daughters see Dr. Berlaucher for their heath needs

Extremely dismissive physician! I was told that I was unable to be experiencing the symptoms I was having. She went above and beyond to try and document that I could not have this issues I was seeking care for. Fortunately I was able to be seen by an EP physician (subspecialist cardiologist) who did diagnose me with the original diagnosis and has had me on treatment since. I have had all positive experiences with my medical team except for this physician. Please see someone who has compassion and believes their patients. The resident that I saw was excellent and had great bedside manner. Hopefully they don't pick up Dr. Berlachers terrible treatment of patients.

I think dr berlacher is very efficient and knowledgeable for basic cardiac medical care, but she has a brusque “bedside manner” that did not exactly put me at ease. I felt I was “in her way” during the interview and exam. I can’t explain what exactly I felt or why, but I have my suspicions- i do not think feel it was just “a bad day at the office” for her. And I will not return to see her. I suggest anyone who is concerned do some review of her “profile” to judge for yourself if you would feel “safe” or “trusting” of this doctor of “the heart.” I wish I did not feel so strongly after so long that I need to write this but I do. Thank you.

It was jarring to observe her castigating the office staff, and then acting like everything was fine and being superficially very caring during the examination once inside the building room. I didn’t feel safe or trusting. I did not feel I could say anything or it would risk upsetting her again. I do not want to go back.

Dr. Berlacher and Dr. EleanorChristensen were very tuned into me and my problem, discussed appropriate testing, and meds with me and spent valuable time with me, then their office followed up with me by phone 2 hours after I left McGees.

Have you ever had the feeling that you were in the right place for your cardiac care? I do and am grateful to Dr Berlacher and her staff.

If only I had found her years ago. Sigh. What was seriously impressive was the praise she gave my PCP (Karen Moyer, MD) for nailing my diagnosis and the meds she prescribed. A specialist who actually read my chart--and will coordinate with my PCP. Wow! Who knew!!

My relative saw this doctor today. He was a bit disturbed with how she acts outside of the exam room. Before he was brought in he told me he witnessed her yelling at her staff and also ran into a room and slammed the door. Inside the exam room she was very kind which made her look very disingenuous. He was reminded of how his former boss treated him and he left feeling very sad for the girl she yelled at. Please tell this doctor to to treat her staff better, he was treated very kindly by them as well. Thank you.

I saw a resident first who discussed my heart health issues. She was excellent. Then Dr. Berlacher met with me. She put me at ease immediately and discussed how my heart problem would be treated/monitored. She also prescribed a new medication for me and reviewed the ones I was already taking. I felt she was knowledgeable, thorough, and very personable. She was a doctor I wanted to continue seeing and was happy that I had made the appointment to be seen by her.