The Doctor's Office: Being Late Means You're Early

tidbits that tantalize

Sometimes...

They Call Your Name.

It's 10:15 and you... 10:15! Late for your doctor's appointment, you put it into high gear, pull into the express lane and crash! You run headlong into someone else vying for the same quick fix to poor time management. Fortunately, cooler heads prevail and, long before shouts of "Hey, where'd you learn how to drive" populate the already charged atmosphere, you both pull your carts to the side of the aisle and take a deep breath. After all, the A & P is no place to make enemies. You're likely to bump into, er, see each other again on Thursday when the produce goes on sale.

But, what about the doctor's appointment? Ah, yes...

Neurologists attending a conference in Austin, Texas recently completed a survey detailing the behaviors they found to be most bothersome in patients. The fourth most bothersome behavior listed was patients being Late for Appointments. It appears springtime came early to the "Winter Conference," as irony was certainly in full bloom.

"It's a problem," said Dr. David Proctor, "and, we've already established a committee to find ways to enhance the waiting room experience." A practicing neurologist for the past twenty-seven years, Proctor has witnessed many changes in attitudes toward patients. "The medical profession used to think of patients simply as a means of getting from here to the golf course. That's all changed. We now realize we must provide a more comprehensive patient experience, one that optimizes each needless hour of waiting. We're considering brighter colors, more discarded magazines and chairs with fresh duct tape as a first response."

Asked about advances in office efficiencies that may reduce patient waiting time, Dr. Proctor stated, "Have a seat. I'll be with you shortly."

With apologies to dedicated neurologists, you may view the full report at Medscape.