I took a deep breath before I headed into the office as I really do not like "working with" new-to-me doctors of any kind.
First of all, there are all the forms where I try to remember all the things that have ever happened to me and all those who I would call blood relatives. It's a lot to remember! Next, there is always the long, long wait with few, if any, magazines and distractions other than "medical television." Then, there is
that always-awkward conversation where I try to explain that what I have had and done to my body of the years and how I really am trying to make up for lost time exercising and caring for myself. I can expect a sigh or at least a nod as they write down all the things wrong with my body and mind! Finally, there are the lists of "to-dos' that I certainly will leave with as they try to 1) find any possible issues; 2) use the services of their colleagues. I would rather clean bathrooms, even latrines than go to a new-to- me doctor appointment!
As I arrived at the potential new-primary-care provider's office, I opened the door to a small waiting room where there was no one waiting! I noticed, happily, that there were abundant magazines neatly arranged in racks and a TV set to the Food Channel. I was pretty sure I had made a date-time mistake as I headed to the desk and introduced myself.
"Welcome," the intake person said cheerfully as he handed me a two sheets to fill out. "We already have all your records, so the only part you need to add is if there are any new concerns or changes in the last 6 months."
The doctor was lovely and neither sure my days on earth were limited nor was she dismissive of my aging body's needs. She assured me that those extra pounds were certainly muscle and that my aquacise routine was working well. I left with one recommendation that was not considered urgent and a smile from ear to ear. I headed out to get a creamy Starbuck's coffee treat......
Then, I rolled over and stretched realizing that today was the day of my appointment and this altered reality was just a lovely dream. "If only," I thought with a smile. Sigh.
3 comments:
It was a lovely dream. Sometimes dreams come true.
You made me laugh! I've had too many new doctor appts in the past year. That's what happens when you move across the country and you're a patient of a certain age. Yesterday was the opthalmologist! Already checked off - primary care, dentist, PT, neurologist, and audiologist. Still to come - sleep doctor. Almost there.
Hope your appt today was dreamy!
I hope the real appointment goes exactly as you've dreamed it. I am not a fan of new doctor experiences either, but my last encounter was as you hoped yours would be. I was absolutely shocked—and his nurse was 100% human with a gentle sense of humor. I'm actually looking forward to my next appointment. Fingers crossed for you!
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