Why Choose Dr. Emily Women's Health Center?
Experience You Can Trust
✓ 30+ years of experience per physician ✓ Over 20 years serving the Bronx (since 2004) ✓ Thousands of safe procedures performed ✓ Board-certified OB/GYN physicians
Quality & Safety
✓ AAAASF-accredited surgical center ✓ General anesthesia standard for all procedures ✓ State-of-the-art medical equipment ✓ 24/7 emergency support after your procedure
# Why It Matters That You See a Physician — Not a PA or NP — at Your GYN Visit
Understanding the difference in training, expertise, and the quality of care you deserve
When you book an appointment at a gynecology clinic, you probably assume you'll be seen by a doctor. But at many urgent care centers and walk-in GYN clinics across New York City, the person examining you, diagnosing you, and making treatment decisions may not be a physician at all. In many cases, you'll be seen by a physician assistant (PA) or nurse practitioner (NP) — and you may never even realize it.
At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center in the Bronx, every patient is seen by a board-certified OB/GYN physician. That's not a marketing tagline — it's how we practice medicine. And we believe it makes a real difference in your care.
Here's why;
Who's Actually Seeing You at Your GYN Appointment?
Walk-in GYN clinics and urgent care centers often expand quickly, opening multiple locations across the city. To staff all those locations, many rely heavily on mid-level providers — physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) — to see the majority of their patients. Some clinics may have a physician on staff, but that doctor may be the founder or administrator, splitting their time between multiple offices, or focused primarily on business operations rather than direct patient care.
That means when you walk in for your GYN visit, the provider examining you and making decisions about your health may have significantly less training than you'd expect.
There's nothing wrong with PAs and NPs — they are valued members of healthcare teams. But there is an important difference between being treated by a mid-level provider and being treated by a physician, especially when it comes to women's health.
The Training Gap Is Real
Here's how the education and training actually compares:
Board-Certified OB/GYN Physician (MD or DO)
A board-certified OB/GYN physician completes a minimum of 12 to 13 years of education and clinical training after high school:
- 4 years of undergraduate education (pre-med)
- 4 years of medical school (MD or DO degree)
- 4 years of OB/GYN residency — intensive, hands-on training exclusively focused on obstetrics and gynecology, including thousands of hours of surgical experience, high-risk pregnancy management, and complex gynecological care
- Board certification exam through the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG)
- Ongoing continuing medical education and periodic recertification
- During residency alone, an OB/GYN physician performs hundreds of surgeries and manages thousands of complex clinical cases under expert supervision before ever practicing independently.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
A nurse practitioner typically completes 6 to 7 years of post-high school education:
- 4 years of undergraduate nursing (BSN degree)
- 2 to 3 years of graduate nursing education (MSN or DNP)
- Clinical hours vary widely by program — some require as few as 500 clinical hours total
- Physician Assistant (PA)
- A physician assistant typically completes 6 to 7 years of post-high school education:
- 4 years of undergraduate education
- 2 to 3 years of PA school
- Approximately 2,000 hours of clinical rotations across multiple specialties (not exclusively gynecology)
The difference isn't just years in school — it's the depth and specificity of training. An OB/GYN physician has spent four full years exclusively studying, practicing, and operating within women's health. A PA or NP may have spent only a fraction of their clinical training on gynecological care.
Why This Matters for Your Gynecological Care
For a routine, uncomplicated annual exam, many patients may not immediately notice the difference. But gynecological care isn't always routine — and that's exactly when the training gap matters most.
Accurate diagnosis of complex conditions. Pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge, and menstrual irregularities can have many possible causes — endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, PCOS, infections, cervical changes, and even early signs of cancer. A physician with years of specialized training and thousands of patient encounters is better equipped to recognize subtle findings, ask the right follow-up questions, and connect symptoms that a less experienced provider might overlook.
Abnormal Pap smears and cervical findings. When a Pap smear comes back abnormal, the next steps — colposcopy, biopsy, treatment decisions — require clinical judgment grounded in deep experience. A board-certified OB/GYN has managed hundreds or thousands of abnormal Pap results and understands the nuances that determine whether to monitor, biopsy, or treat.
Surgical evaluation and procedures. If you need a procedure — whether it's an IUD insertion, Nexplanon placement, endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, or abortion — you want the person performing it to have extensive surgical training. OB/GYN physicians complete four years of surgical residency; PAs and NPs do not have equivalent surgical training.
Continuity of care. At clinics that staff multiple locations with rotating mid-level providers, you may see a different person at every visit. That means your provider may not know your medical history, your previous concerns, or the context behind your symptoms. At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, you'll be seen by one of our two physicians — Dr. Brian E. Park or Dr. Vivian Roston — who each bring over **30 years of clinical experience** and who know their patients by name.
Recognizing when something isn't "normal." Years of experience create pattern recognition that can't be taught in a textbook. A physician who has practiced OB/GYN for three decades has seen presentations that a less experienced provider may never have encountered. That experience can be the difference between catching a problem early and missing it entirely.
What Many Patients Don't Realize
Most patients don't ask — and many clinics don't volunteer — whether the person providing their care is a physician, a PA, or an NP. The white coat looks the same. The exam room looks the same. The visit may feel the same.
But the training, clinical judgment, and decision-making behind the care are not the same.
You have the right to know who is providing your care and what their qualifications are. If your clinic doesn't clearly communicate this, it's worth asking:
- Here are questions you can ask before or during your appointment at any clinic:
- Will I be seen by a physician, a nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant?
- Is the provider board-certified in OB/GYN?
- Who reviews my test results — a physician or a mid-level provider?
- If I need a procedure, who will perform it?
- These are reasonable, important questions. A good clinic will answer them honestly and without hesitation.
What We Do Differently at Dr. Emily Women's Health Center
At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center in the South Bronx, we made a deliberate choice: **every patient is examined and treated by a board-certified OB/GYN physician**.
We don't use physician assistants or nurse practitioners to provide your primary gynecological care. We don't rotate providers between multiple locations. We don't hand off your exam to someone with less training because the schedule is busy.
Here's what that means for you:
You always see a doctor. Dr. Brian E. Park and Dr. Vivian Roston personally provide every patient examination, every consultation, and every procedure. They each bring more than 30 years of experience in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive healthcare.
Your doctor knows you.Because we have two dedicated physicians at one location, your doctor knows your medical history, your concerns, and your preferences. You're not starting from scratch at every visit.
Your procedures are physician-performed. IUD insertions, Nexplanon placements, colposcopies, hysteroscopies, and both medical and surgical abortion services — all performed directly by a board-certified OB/GYN physician with decades of surgical experience.
You're in an accredited surgical facility. Dr. Emily Women's Health Center is AAAASF-accredited, meeting nationally recognized standards for patient safety, surgical quality, and clinical excellence. This accreditation reflects a level of facility standards that walk-in clinics and urgent care centers typically do not maintain.
We offer services that walk-in clinics cannot. Because we have full surgical capabilities and physician-level expertise, we provide services that most walk-in GYN clinics simply don't offer — including surgical abortion with general anesthesia up to 21 weeks, same-day second trimester abortion services, and comprehensive reproductive care that requires advanced clinical training.
Same-Day Access Without Compromising Quality
We understand why patients are drawn to walk-in clinics — convenience matters. When you need care, you don't want to wait six weeks for an appointment.
That's why Dr. Emily Women's Health Center offers **same-day GYN appointments**. You get the convenience of rapid access with the quality of physician-level care. No trade-offs.
Call 718-585-1010 to check same-day availability, or request an appointment online at [www.dremily.net](https://www.dremily.net).
You Deserve to Know Who's Taking Care of You
Your gynecological health is personal, important, and deserves the highest standard of care. When you choose a clinic, you're not just choosing a location or a time slot — you're choosing the person who will examine your body, interpret your test results, and make decisions that affect your health.
At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, that person is always a board-certified physician.
We've been serving the women of the South Bronx and all five boroughs of New York City since 2004 — more than 20 years of dedicated, physician-led women's healthcare. We accept Medicaid from all five NYC boroughs and most major insurance plans.
Your health deserves a doctor. Come see one.
Compassionate Care
✓ No judgment about your decision ✓ Respectful, kind staff ✓ Private, confidential service ✓ Support through every step.
Experienced, Long-Tenured Staff
Many of our staff members have worked with Dr. Park for over 20 years. This continuity means you receive care from an experienced, cohesive team that works together seamlessly. You're not just a number - you're cared for by professionals who have dedicated decades to this work.
⭐ Rated 4.6 stars on Google with over 800 patient reviews
Affordable, Competitive Pricing
We offer some of the most competitive prices in NYC while maintaining AAAASF-accredited safety standards. Quality care shouldn't be out of reach - we're committed to making reproductive healthcare accessible.
- Competitive pricing - often lower than other NYC clinics
- Transparent fees with no hidden costs
- Medicaid accepted from all five boroughs
- Same-day appointments available
Convenient Location
✓ Bronx location - 642 Southern Blvd ✓ One block from 6 train (149th St) ✓ Bus stops directly in front (Bx17, Bx19) ✓ Parking available nearby
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is same-day procedure different from two-day? A: Same-day completes cervical preparation and procedure in one visit (13-16 weeks). Two-day spreads it over two visits and is used for 16+ weeks or when medically indicated.
Q: Is same-day as safe as two-day? A: Yes. Both are very safe. We use the method that is safest for your specific situation based on gestational age and medical factors.
Q: How long will I be at the office? A: Plan for 4-6 hours total. This includes preparation time, waiting for cervix to open, the procedure, and recovery.
Q: Can I bring someone with me? A: Yes! A support person can wait in our waiting room. However, they cannot be in the procedure or recovery room. You'll also need someone age 21+ to drive you home afterward.
Q: What if I'm further along than 16 weeks? A: We provide abortion services up to 21 weeks. For 16+ weeks, a two-day procedure is typically recommended for safety, but we'll discuss your specific situation.
Q: Will it hurt? A: You'll have cramping during cervical preparation (manageable with pain medication we provide). During the actual procedure, you're completely asleep under general anesthesia and feel nothing. After the procedure, cramping is similar to menstrual cramps.
Q: When can I go back to work? A: Most women feel well enough to return to work or school within 2-3 days. Listen to your body.
Q: When can I have sex again? A: Wait at least 2 weeks to allow your cervix to close and prevent infection.
Q: Will this affect my future fertility? A: No. Abortion does not affect your ability to get pregnant or have healthy pregnancies in the future.
Q: How do I know if same-day is right for me? A: Call us at 718-585-1010. We'll discuss your situation, gestational age, and medical history to determine if same-day is appropriate for you.
Schedule Your Same-Day Appointment
Call Dr. Emily Women's Health Center Today: 718-585-1010
We offer:
- Same-day appointments often available
- Weekend appointments (Saturdays)
- Confidential care
- Experienced physicians
- Compassionate support
- All insurance accepted
Dr. Emily Women's Health Center 642 Southern Boulevard Bronx, NY 10455
Getting Here:
- Subway: 6 train to 149th St-Grand Concourse (1 block away)
- Bus: Bx17 and Bx19 stop directly in front of our building
- Driving: Parking available at Mobil station next door
- From Airports:
- LaGuardia: 20-30 minutes
- JFK: 30-40 minutes
- Newark: 45-60 minutes
Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Sunday: Closed
You Deserve Quality Care Without Unnecessary Delays
Get your second trimester abortion completed in one visit with board-certified physicians who have been serving the Bronx for over 20 years.
Call now: 718-585-1010
Same-day appointments available.
OUT-OF-STATE ABORTION PATIENTS
OUT-OF-STATE ABORTION PATIENTS PAGE CONTENT
If You Can't Get an Abortion in Your State, We Can Help
Dr. Emily Women's Health Center provides safe, confidential abortion services to patients traveling from states with abortion restrictions.
We serve patients from: Texas, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and all other states with abortion bans or severe restrictions.
You can get care in New York. We'll help you get here.
Call 718-585-1010 - Tell us you're calling from out of state
Why Travel to New York for Abortion?
New York Has Strong Abortion Protection
In New York State: ✓ Abortion is legal up to 24 weeks of pregnancy ✓ No waiting periods ✓ No age restrictions or parental consent required ✓ No partner notification required ✓ No mandatory counseling or ultrasounds ✓ No restrictions on out-of-state patients ✓ Protected by state law regardless of federal changes
New York is a safe haven for abortion access.
We Understand What You're Going Through
Traveling out of state for abortion care can feel overwhelming. You may be dealing with:
- Finding a provider who can see you quickly
- Figuring out travel logistics
- Worrying about costs
- Navigating unfamiliar laws
- Needing to keep your travel private
- Time away from work or family
- Stress and anxiety about the whole process
You're not alone. We've helped hundreds of out-of-state patients, and we're here to help you too.
How We Help Out-of-State Patients
Fast Appointment Scheduling
We know you need care quickly.
- Appointments often available within 1-3 days
- Same-day appointments sometimes possible
- Weekend appointments available (Saturdays)
- Extended hours (open until 5 PM weekdays)
Call 718-585-1010 and let us know you're traveling from out of state. We'll prioritize your scheduling.
Travel Assistance & Resources
We connect you to organizations that can help with:
Travel Funding:
- Brigid Alliance: Covers flights, trains, buses, gas cards
- National Abortion Federation (NAF): Travel assistance available
- Call: 1-800-772-9100
Free Housing:
- Haven Coalition: Free overnight stays with volunteer hosts in NYC
- Safe, confidential, welcoming accommodations
- No cost to you
Procedure Funding:
- National Abortion Federation (NAF) Hotline: 1-800-772-9100
- New York Abortion Access Fund (NYAAF): 212-252-4757
- Help available for procedure costs
We'll help you connect with these resources when you call.
Our Services for Out-of-State Patients
Abortion Services Up to 21 Weeks
Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill):
- Up to 9 weeks pregnant
- Two office visits
- Complete abortion at home
- 95-97% effective
Surgical Abortion:
- First trimester: 6-12 weeks
- Second trimester: 13-21 weeks
- Same-day completion
- General anesthesia (completely asleep)
- 99% effective
All procedures include:
- Ultrasound to confirm gestational age
- Complete counseling
- All medications
- Follow-up care
- 24/7 emergency support
What to Expect: Your Visit to Dr. Emily
Step 1: Call Us
718-585-1010
When you call, tell us:
- You're traveling from out of state
- Approximately how far along you think you are
- Your insurance situation
- When you can travel to New York
We'll:
- Schedule your appointment ASAP
- Explain what to expect
- Discuss costs and payment options
- Provide directions and travel information
- Connect you with funding/travel resources if needed
Step 2: Plan Your Travel
How to Get Here:
