Considering that you can get a decently spec'd Managed VPS for like $40 a month, WP dedicated hosting should be 1000x more responsive and knowledgeable than anyone else.

This is pretty sad.

I've noticed WooThemes having lots of trouble with their site as well lately (aside from the hack) and they are hosted on WPEngine as well.

Maybe its time someone starts reselling a well set up Digital Ocean droplet for ~$50 a month.