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Your Tips on How to Get Off to the Best Start with a New Specialist
Visiting Mayo Clinic | Last Active: Nov 10, 2021 | Replies (231)Comment receiving replies
I am a patient at a group practice for an eye condition. So, I don't always see the same specialist. At my appointment last month, I was treated by one of the doctors that I don't usually see. Right away, I observed how he interacted with his staff in the hallway, and the tone of his conversations and bounce in his step. His time with me was efficient and professional. He clearly explained my treatment, even though my charts showed that I have been receiving these treatments for quite a few years.
At the end of my appointment, I told him that I could see how much he enjoyed what he was doing. He paused for a moment. I think I took him by surprise. He said, "I do love what I do" And he told me about some memorable experiences. Before he left, he smiled and thanked me for asking.
I have a follow-up in a couple months, but don't know which doctor I am going to see.
Replies to "I am a patient at a group practice for an eye condition. So, I don't always..."
I had a similar experience with my oncologists. There were 3 oncologists that came to our local hospital. I really preferred to meet with one of the doctors. If i was sceduled on a day when one of the other doctors was at the clinic, i would call and ask them to reschedule me for a day when my preferred doctor was at the clinic. If you really like a specific doctor, ask to be scheduled with that doctor. It may not work out, but it doesn't hurt to ask.
@rosemarya @hopeful33250 As Teresa said, doctors are people too, and I think they appreciate hearing we recognize that. My gynecologist is great, we always share a bit of personal info and one time I told him how fortunate I felt to have a number of very caring doctors. He stopped what he was doing and immediately responded that I was an easy person to care about, which made my day too!
Once on my way to my appointment with my surgeon, not too long after my transplant, I was thinking about the difference in me from the first time we met, prior to transplant, to now. I commented to him that it must be very gratifying for him when he sees patients so healthy after transplant, and he sort of beamed and said it really is.
I think many people do not see the human side of doctors so when a patient makes a positive comment like that they enjoy it.
JK
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What a great experience, Rosemary! Doctors are people too and enjoy being able to share about themselves.