Wasted MY time?

[Cataholic]

I see this sort of thing occasionally. First of all, I think that no one really expects to be taken on time at any medical office.

I expect to be taken on time. And, for the large part of the office visits I have, be in mine, Jonah's or the cats, the doctors ARE on time.

I have left, switched doctors, and just walked out, and would do it again. To me, it is a matter of valuing my time just as much as the professionals- medical or otherwise.

[Logan]

It seems like a simple explanation that they are running behind would help all of us to be more patient as we wait. My primary physician's office has a sign posted that says if you have been waiting for more than 15 minutes (after your appt time), please alert the receptionist. I have never had to say a word, thank goodness. I never, ever go to the doctor or dentist without expecting to be delayed, though. I expect my doctor's full attention, when I am there with a problem, and I'm the same way with my veterinarian. That's why I like them so much and continue to see them. I turn off my cell phone, read a file for work, or enjoy a book and truly enjoy the little bit of peace and quiet I get while I wait!

I will say that I hate the television in the offices, though, because it is usually way too loud and on something that I don't care about watching.

[Donnaj4962]

My orthopedic surgeon (thumb doctor) is almost always running behind time. I usually call before I go to see how far behind he is running. However, one thing that they do is to post in the reception area how far behind each doctor is running. (Dr. "H" is running 15 minutes behind schedule, or Dr. "C" is running on time, etc.) As soon as you walk into the office, you know what to expect as far as wait time. This particular doctor ALWAYS apologizes if I have had to wait.

As I think about all of my doctors and dentist, I think that they all are courteous about telling me right up front if the wait will be long. I appreciate that. I usually bring a book (or I "people watch"!) and just knowing what the wait is expected to be helps to keep my blood pressure where it should be!

Laura, I am sorry that you were treated so poorly. Maybe if you called the office manager and explained your experience, you would feel batter. And hopefully tehy will take notice and make some office policy changes!