I will be posting six days a week for the month of April - (with a rest day on Sunday).
Each post will begin with the corresponding letter of the alphabet beginning with A and finishing with the letter Z.
I began participating in this challenge in 2012. With the exception of last year, I believe I completed the challenge each year. Last year I lost steam somewhere around the letter W.
Policy
Before I begin, I am fine.
Last Thursday I had to go for a CT scan. The radiologist told me that the results would be sent to my doctor within 24 hours.
I didn't expect to hear anything on Friday, but was hoping that I would hear something by Monday.
On Monday morning the doctor's receptionist called and told me that the results were in and the doctor wanted me to come into the office to discuss them with me.
Of course my mind started to race. If everything was okay, why wouldn't they just tell me that.
As I wrote about in my N post, I am an anxious person. My heart started to pound. Ross said the color drained from my face.
Then the receptionist said the appointment would be in one week. WHAAT???
I said, "No, I would like the results today."
Receptionist: "Sorry, it's Doctor's policy that she doesn't discuss results over the phone."
In a more forceful voice, I say, "I want the results today!!"
She said she would get a note to the doctor.
When I got off the phone, I was shaking. Ross was clearly upset also.
The receptionist called back about 15 minutes later to tell me that the CT scan came back normal and everything was fine.
When I go for my next appointment I will let the doctor know that she needs to rethink her policy.
If test results are okay, the patient should be told as soon as they are available. If the test results are complicated, an appointment to discuss with the doctor should be made as soon as possible.
I agree. I wouldn't like that policy either. But I have to say most of the time if they are going to have you wait a week the results are probably "okay." They tend to act on abnormal results a bit quicker. But the waiting would be the hard part. Good you were firm to get the results when you wanted to get them.
ReplyDeletebetty
Yes, I also would assume that to be true. But I see no reason to make a patient wait in any case.
DeleteOh my, I absolutely agree!!! I'd be a nervous wreck, too.
ReplyDeleteDB McNicol, author
A to Z Microfiction: Parachute
Believe me, I was a nervous wreck. I am so happy that it turned out so well!
DeleteMy doctors have all been good about sharing test results as soon as they have them. I really wonder what some doctors are thinking when they demand you come in so they can deliver things like that. I can understand if it's bad news, but if you're getting an "all clear," they shouldn't have a problem telling you over the phone or even in an email. Even if it is bad news, they shouldn't hold it like that, though I wouldn't just send an email.
ReplyDeleteJohn @ The Sound Of One Hand Typing
Generally my experience has been good with my doctors regarding test results. This is the first time I saw this doctor. My first impression of her was favorable. But now I'm not so sure.
DeleteYeah, that's not a good way to do things. Don't tell someone to come in and discuss results without saying everything's fine. Being worried is not good for one's health.
ReplyDeleteIt was a normal experience for me. Not sure why this doctor chooses to do it that way.
DeleteWhat a nightmare! And how irresponsible. I think some doctors' have their receptionists trained to be unpleasant.
ReplyDeleteYes, the receptionist wasn't very nice. However, the doctor was pleasant. I will speak to the doctor about what happened. And thank you for your well wishes :)
DeleteSorry, meant to say, glad you're okay!
ReplyDelete