Some of the physicians I have seen over the years and do see currently are also profiled. The results make me chuckle. Usually I see a physician because they are a specialist or are recommended, have a good reputation etc. It is interesting to me to see how fellow practioners fare in these reviews. I note that one obstetrician whom I found to be both personable and very caring, was criticized for not returning phone calls. While he always returned mine and always personally, I am sure that for someone, at least once, that was not true. It is a hard business to care deeply for your patients and yet not be able to meet all their needs.
I suppose all providers labor to keep their patients happy. It is only good business and good sense to take care of those folks who come for help. The trick of course, is how to keep them happy. Some people are remarkably pleased with standard courtesy and responsiveness. Unfortunately, others are not satisfied with what seems like heroic efforts. There is nothing profound in what I am saying. It has been pointed out by many that one can satisfy many people who will not say anything; but dissatisfy one who will then make a point of telling everyone. The problem is of course, that you just can't make everyone happy. I know this physician is very caring not only because of my own considerable experience with him, but those reported by others that I know.
It is my job to be present and pleasant every day to everyone who I work with. This is not as easy as it sounds. If you are one of the people who came away with the idea that I don't care about you, please be assured that I do. I can't please everyone and I don't take everyone as a patient. Some people have a pretty good prognosis for success with me. Over the years, I have developed an algorithm for those with whom I work well, and those for whom I don't. Please understand that I care about you. Sometimes, it is just that I ask a lot of questions or that I look sort of preoccupied.
Even If I look 'sleepy', it is because I am actually thinking and listening to you.
Even If I frown, I am doing the same: thinking about you
Even if I ask you the same question twice in one hour or twice in 2 weeks, I want to hear the answer again.
I rarely ask questions that are rhetorical. I ask questions because I need to know.
Believe me, if I suggest you see someone else; it is better for you. And no, I won't be surprised when the next therapist you see, you love, not like me.
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