This website was started to help patients dealing with valve replacement issues while providing a relaxed atmosphere where members could discuss issues without a great deal of censorship. Many medical help forums discourage discussion of current events; this one does not.
I did not become a member of this website. I hold membership in another, similar website that has been in existence for about 10 years. However, since both sites share members, posts have been made suggesting that we also "share" content from both. As a result, I've been reading this site's content for several weeks. Since I'm not a member, I can't reply or post, nor have I shared any thoughts or comments with the administration of the site.
Therefore I was very surprised today to receive a message that my IP address was being blocked by their website. I can't understand how medical based website can capriciously decide who can read their content when there is nothing on their front page stating that one has to be a member or that content is private.
It almost feels discriminatory.
So in conclusion, I would not recommend this site to other valve replacement patients. The site apparently has their own agenda, but it's difficult to discern what it is. Certainly they are not what I consider to be a friendly, welcoming group.

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Gina B. I am the owner of heartvalvepatients.org and I can tell you we have never banned any IP addresses other than those who registered and then posted to sell or promote their causes. We encourage guests to view our site without obligation although posting is restricted to members - membership is free. Thanks, Gina (geebee)

2/22/11  •  Votes (0)