The Oncology Institute - Lakeland, Florida

Breanna C.

Sam is one of my favorite healthcare providers. She is intelligent and kind. She never rushes her time with you, and tries to help in any way she can. I highly recommend this place because of her.

Julio V.

I could said enough on Dr. Sharma professionalism, her humble and thoughtful attitude towards my cancer treatment is remarkable.
I could not thanks enough for all her researches and advice, this clinic have an excellent asset with her being a part of it.

Emily D.

Very relieved to have found Dr. Sharma. She is very knowledgeable, thorough, and genuinely cares about what I’m going through with my health. I have about 5 other specialists I see and I trust this Dr the most. I know she’s going to get me on my path to healing. It may be a process, but I know I’m in good hands. With her I will find more stability in my health one day.

Aliah W.

Absolutely love my experience and care at TOI. Dr. Sharma, Ms. Samantha, and all the staff have made my treatment and visits a breeze. I’m always greeted with a bright smile and comforted through tough days. Ms. Diane and her asst. make my infusion days as easy as can be, always provided with a snack, water, and a good laugh!

Gina S.

I'm so happy to find such a companionship and thorough Hematologist,
Dr Sharma.
Everyone in her office is polite, caring, and makes you feel very comfortable.
I highly recommend Dr. Kamal Sharma for Hematology and Oncologist.

Lolita M.

As the designated Power of Attorney for my father, who resides out of state, I am deeply disappointed and frustrated by the lack of communication and responsiveness from this facility. My father is illiterate, and it is my responsibility to understand his care and assist him. Unfortunately, this experience has left me questioning the professionalism and efficiency of this office, especially as we face his first chemotherapy appointment.
Despite multiple attempts to contact the physician, Dr. Kamal Sharma, I have not received a single callback. Below is a timeline of my efforts:

• First Attempt: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 - No callback.
• Second Attempt: Thursday, November 14, 2024 - No callback.
• Third Attempt: Friday, November 15, 2024 - No callback.

On November 15th, after expressing significant frustration, I was finally able to speak with someone. However, it was not Dr. Sharma. Instead, I was directed to an NP and then an RN. While the NP was gracious and thorough in providing information about the process, this interaction did not resolve my primary concern: speaking with the physician directly.

After receiving access to the patient portal, I discovered that I could not message Dr. Sharma because no physician was listed. This only added to my frustration. On Wednesday, November 20th, I emailed the front desk to inquire about my father’s appointment on Monday, November 25th. The communication breakdown continued:

• First Attempt: Emailed on November 20, 2024 – No response.
• No Follow-Up: Waited patiently on November 21, 2024.
• Second Attempt: Emailed and called on November 22, 2024 – No response.

Finally, I called again on November 22nd at 1:26 PM. My call went unanswered until I used a different number, at which point the front desk administrator, Natalie, picked up. While Natalie explained that she is the only staff member at the front desk and had addressed my earlier requests, I was not informed of any updates or resolutions. This lack of follow-through has been exasperating, especially given the importance of my father’s upcoming appointment.

Patients and their families should not have to make repeated attempts to get basic information. A policy for confirming receipt of emails or calls is essential.

If the front desk is overwhelmed, additional staff should be hired to ensure timely responses and proper support. This office serves patients and families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Losing patience or empathy is unacceptable.

As a POA, I must have direct communication with the physician overseeing my father’s care to make informed decisions. This experience has been nothing short of disheartening. The lack of responsiveness, coupled with the disorganized handling of critical patient matters, reflects poorly on this facility. My father’s health is my priority, and I expect the same from his care team. I sincerely hope the office will address these issues to prevent other families from enduring a similar ordeal.
To date, I am still waiting to speak directly with Dr. Kamal Sharma.

Tanisha W.

Dr Sharma and APRN Tuttle are both very knowledgeable and take the time to explain and involve you in your plan of care.

Christina K.

Very polite, explains everything, takes her time, and she goes above and beyond to make her patients feel comfortable and feel heard. Extremely good doctor.