Visiting a Physician before and after the New Year always results in non-essential paperwork in my opinion. They want you to update your file. Make sure everything is correct. Okay. But why ask questions about my personal habits and demographic if it doesn’t apply to each and every visit. Is my Doctor going to look at this information and give a care. I don’t think so! They don’t have time. So, why the extra paperwork? (Well, actually, why all the extra computer data entries?)
I needed an antibiotic. A quick in and out. So, the call was made. The person on the phone said, “We are updating your data into our new software program. Could you, please take a moment and answer a few questions?” NO! I was just in for a Physical. “We still need to be sure your information is up to date.” I prefer not too. “You will have to do it at the front desk then when you come for your appointment.” Standing up and answering your questions? I don’t think so. Ok. She started with questions already asked like name, birth date, address. Argh! She preceded with:
“Who is your Emergency contact?” I start given my husbands name and spelling it out as I always have to do…and she says, ‘Wait, let me see if I can copy paste.” Well, why are you asking me? In my younger years, back in the paper days, I worked with patient files and I understand how information is necessary. Even though such information can get transferred and messed up, copy and paste is straight forward. Just do it! Then ask me if my emergency contact is still the same.
Do you drink alcohol?” (Yep, right after answering your redundant questions even if it is only 10:00 am).
“What is your Nationality?” Um, ah, American, born and raised was not excepted. Ok. Can I schedule an appointment now, please. After some back and forth banter I had an appointment.
Note to self…don’t get sick at the end or beginning of the year.
Happy New Year!
Katherine Murie Webster 