The HMO
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"If you'll just step up on the scale, we'll check your weight." "Uh... Okay." "Thank you. This way, please. Now if you'll just sit on the edge of the exam table and roll up your sleeve, we'll get your blood pressure reading." "Why are you taking my blood pressure?" "Oh, we're required to keep meticulous records, ma'am. Blood pressure is a very important health consideration, you know. Now, disrobe completely. There's a gown on the pillow. Put it on with the opening at the back. The doctor will be with you shortly." "Excuse me. I don't quite understa--" "I'm sorry, ma'am, but I have three other patients waiting. The doctor will be in very soon. I'm sure he'll be happy to answer all your questions."
"Good morning, Mrs. Johnson. I'm Dr. Darjinder Bindra." "It's Johnston. Mrs. Johnston." "Yes, of course it is. Hmm... According to your chart, your blood pressure is a little higher than the last time you were here. Of course, that's to be expected, under the circumstances."
"Oh? What Ñcircumstances' would those be?" "And your weight has increased more than we like. You need to watch that." "My weight? Doctor, what are you talking about? How is my weight pertinent?" "Quiet now. I'll just loosen the back of your gown and listen for a minute to your heart and lungs." "I've heard of meticulous record keeping but this is ridiculous. I've never had to go through this before." "Nonsense. Of course you have. These exams are most common for a woman in her second trimester." "Second TRIMESTER!" "Yes. That's the 4th through 6th month of......" "I know what it is, Doctor. I'm NOT pregnant." "Nonsense. Of course you're pregnant. Twenty-two weeks pregnant, to be precise. It's right here in your chart: Julia Johnson. Second pregnancy. You're scheduled for an ultrasound in two weeks. See? Do you want a girl or a boy this time?" "Doctor uh....Bindra, is it? My name is Julie Johnston. I'm forty-nine years old and had a hysterectomy five years ago. If I'm pregnant, I want the damn Pope for God's sake! I'm here for a flu shot!"
Wendy Tanzer walks the walk, but does she talk the talk?
Wendy Tanzer walks the walk, but does she talk the talk?