Seeing BMC South Doctor “The Best Decision I Ever Made”
For the past 22 years, Richard Lentini has been under the care of cardiologist Dr. Benoy Zachariah at Boston Medical Center – South.
“I started seeing Dr. Zachariah after I had my first heart attack in 2003, and it was the best decision I ever made,” he says. “In 22 years, he’s not only become my favorite doctor, but he’s also a friend. He’s the reason I’m still here today.”
Every six months, Richard sees Dr. Zachariah to check on his heart. “We talk and he listens. And I mean he really listens — he pays attention to details and never hurries you. You really feel like he’s spending time with you and that he cares about you.”
When Richard had a second heart attack in 2007, he felt that he was in good hands. “Dr. Zachariah thought I probably had a blockage, but it cleared after an injection in the emergency room.” Since then, he’s adjusted Richard’s medications based on how he’s feeling and the results of his blood tests, stress tests, and echocardiograms.
“He also makes suggestions on diet and exercise, but he never makes me feel bad if I can’t do everything. I trust him and I feel like I can be honest with him.”
Richard says he especially appreciates how Dr. Zachariah sees him as a whole person, not just a heart patient. “He’s always concerned about everything in your life that that will affect your health. He’s always checking my blood tests and keeping an eye on me,” he says. “In 2012, I saw Dr. Zachariah after a routine visit with my primary care doctor. He looked at the results of my blood tests and said, ‘We have a problem here.’” That day, Dr. Zachariah referred Richard to an oncologist, who confirmed he had leukemia. “My primary care doctor totally missed it, thinking I just had an infection.” Richard is happy to report that his leukemia is now in remission after treatment.
“I mean he really listens — he pays attention to details and never hurries you. You really feel like he’s spending time with you and that he cares about you.”
About six months ago, Richard’s wife, Carolyn, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and she needed to see a heart specialist. “She knew right away that she wanted to see Dr. Zachariah because she knows how knowledgeable and caring he is.” Fortunately, Carolyn has been able to manage her diabetes, so she only needs to see Dr. Zachariah once a year to make sure her heart stays healthy.
“I really can’t say enough about Dr. Zachariah, says Richard. “I recommend him to anyone who needs a cardiologist.”
Take Richard’s Recommendation for Boston Medical Center – South Cardiology
At Boston Medical Center – South’s Cardiology Department, our skilled cardiology experts deliver compassionate care for all conditions, from the most common to the most complex. We have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for our high-performing heart attack care.
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