The computer connection at my PCP's office is really slow sometimes. Doc calls up my info and it takes awhile to load. I usually write my three main questions on a card and say, "While we're waiting, can I ask about xyz?" so that the 15 minutes allotted for my visit isn't wasted. Most docs are working for health care systems on salary, and they're told how many patients they have to see and how long they can spend. I'm 70 and not acutely ill, and it's real clear that the oncologist is short-sheeting my time because she just spent twice as much time with a teenager with acute leukemia.

I get that that's not the scenario you're describing, but I think the days when we can actually go in and have a chat with a doctor are pretty much over.

It's even worse for patients who have trouble articulating their problems. My mom had mental health issues, and it was really sad to see a doctor trying to deal with this in a 15 minute visit.