Southern California Orthopedic Institute
2400 Bahamas Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Patient Reviews
The following are reviews from patients of Dr. Balch.
“He is an excellent doctor.”
– Paul N.
“My arthritic hip was deteriorating at a rate that I expected to end up in a wheelchair in a couple of years. I hated the idea of any surgery, but my GP suggested I consult Dr. Balch at SCOI about a total hip replacement. Dr. Balch was brutally honest about the severity of the operation and left me with no questions about what would be involved. However, his confidence, training, experience, and impressive record of success broke down my defenses. I finally agreed to proceed, and as I went under, I said, "I feel like I'm jumping out of a perfectly good airplane." I woke up in the hospital with surprisingly little discomfort. The staff and Dr. Balch monitored me closely. The next day I was walking around the hallways! I was discharged the following day and went home to my family to recover. Dr. Balch warned me to be very cautious that the first six weeks were critical in not injuring myself. Every day I was asked about my pain level and mobility improvement via a computer app.
By two months, the pain in my hip is gone. I felt like I had been reborn, 20 years younger. I told Dr. Balch. He was a miracle worker. Four months later, I am lifting a previously impossible weight. The scar seems impossibly small and is fading fast. My leg is more flexible than it has been in years. I am so glad I did this. Thank you, Dr. Balch! SCOI keeps asking me, is there anything we could have done better? Do you have any criticisms? I can't think of a single thing. I was in the hands of top-notch professionals all the way. What a Godsend. Thank you, SCOI.”
– Richard M.
“Always pleasant and informative. The staff is also friendly and efficient.”
– Donna D.
“Dr. Balch performed two surgeries to repair my fractured kneecap. I recently had an appointment with Dr. Balch concerning my knee. He has always been very professional and kind. I like that he spends time to listen and never seems in a hurry.”
– Janise N.
“Dr. Balch inspired confidence. He was always patient and answered questions in understandable terms. He never seemed rushed during the appointment, yet he kept to a good schedule. The wait times were brief. Staff members were welcoming and helpful.”
– Phyllis B.
“Dr. Balch was fantastic! My hip and knee were hurting, and after X-Ray, he explained what was going on in a way I could understand! He did an injection, and within a couple of weeks, I was off pain pills!”
– Donna H.
“Outstanding in all areas!”
– Rick K.
“I had two procedures on my left knee performed by Dr. Balch. I felt very confident during the whole process of repairing my kneecap. Dr. Balch was always professional but very easy to talk to. He was still willing to spend as much time as necessary to answer all of my questions.”
– Janise N.
“Excellent. Dr Balch listens to me and understands. He also explains everything to me. He is a great doctor and very understanding.”
– Jeannette L.
“I am impressed with Dr. Balch he takes his time and explains what to expect. Very personal, and his staff is friendly.”
– Megan K.