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Posted

What did the parents say when you asked them why they switched?

rocky

--- " Naureen A. Mohamed " wrote:

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

> appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

> Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children

> to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

> want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

> In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

> the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

> work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

> dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

> them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am

> human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

> How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

> problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a

> chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

> come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

> became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

> uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

> explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

> urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

> when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

> have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for

> her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work

> with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

> being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

> change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

> shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

> choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the

> first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

> they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an

> issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

> what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

> took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

> and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

> kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

> husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

> year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since

> they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for

> the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

> specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

> Naureen

> Mohamed

>

Rakesh Patel MD

Arizona Sun Family Medicine, P.C.

633 East Ray Road, #101

Gilbert, Arizona 85296

www.azsunfm.com

PLEASE NOTE: Email is not a secure form of communication. It should not be used

for urgent or sensitive messages. Email may be done securely through our web

portal. If you have a medical emergency go to an Emergency Room or call 911.

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Posted
Posted

What did the parents say when you asked them why they switched?

rocky

--- " Naureen A. Mohamed " wrote:

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

> appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

> Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children

> to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

> want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

> In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

> the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

> work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

> dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

> them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am

> human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

> How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

> problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a

> chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

> come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

> became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

> uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

> explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

> urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

> when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

> have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for

> her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work

> with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

> being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

> change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

> shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

> choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the

> first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

> they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an

> issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

> what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

> took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

> and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

> kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

> husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

> year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since

> they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for

> the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

> specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

> Naureen

> Mohamed

>

Rakesh Patel MD

Arizona Sun Family Medicine, P.C.

633 East Ray Road, #101

Gilbert, Arizona 85296

www.azsunfm.com

PLEASE NOTE: Email is not a secure form of communication. It should not be used

for urgent or sensitive messages. Email may be done securely through our web

portal. If you have a medical emergency go to an Emergency Room or call 911.

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Share on other sites
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Posted
Posted

What did the parents say when you asked them why they switched?

rocky

--- " Naureen A. Mohamed " wrote:

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

> appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

> Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children

> to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

> want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

> In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

> the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

> work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

> dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

> them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am

> human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

> How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

> problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a

> chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

> come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

> became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

> uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

> explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

> urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

> when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

> have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for

> her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work

> with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

> being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

> change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

> shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

> choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the

> first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

> they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an

> issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

> what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

> took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

> and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

> kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

> husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

> year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since

> they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for

> the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

> specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

> Naureen

> Mohamed

>

Rakesh Patel MD

Arizona Sun Family Medicine, P.C.

633 East Ray Road, #101

Gilbert, Arizona 85296

www.azsunfm.com

PLEASE NOTE: Email is not a secure form of communication. It should not be used

for urgent or sensitive messages. Email may be done securely through our web

portal. If you have a medical emergency go to an Emergency Room or call 911.

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Posted
Posted

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack of

confidence. If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the pt

ought to go elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business. IMPs are very very hot

commodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you should

not want for patient demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, but

then why am I still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question. Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question to

the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out

there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who

come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as

patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to

come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the

father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I

also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have

been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,

same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this

normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the

parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a

bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).

They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with

them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while

pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't

call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the

cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every

new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent

situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I

would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not

right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she

could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband

felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas

station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this

is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe

that people have a right to choose their doctor. If the parent had

never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so

offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have

less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime

the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for

them.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own

kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all

these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,

who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on

all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going

to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would

feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if

they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin

with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,

but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge

for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your

thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack of

confidence. If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the pt

ought to go elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business. IMPs are very very hot

commodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you should

not want for patient demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, but

then why am I still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question. Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question to

the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out

there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who

come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as

patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to

come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the

father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I

also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have

been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,

same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this

normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the

parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a

bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).

They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with

them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while

pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't

call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the

cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every

new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent

situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I

would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not

right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she

could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband

felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas

station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this

is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe

that people have a right to choose their doctor. If the parent had

never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so

offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have

less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime

the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for

them.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own

kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all

these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,

who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on

all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going

to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would

feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if

they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin

with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,

but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge

for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your

thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Guest guest

Guest guest

Posted
Posted

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack of

confidence. If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the pt

ought to go elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business. IMPs are very very hot

commodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you should

not want for patient demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, but

then why am I still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question. Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question to

the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out

there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who

come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as

patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to

come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.

In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the

father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard

work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I

also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have

been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,

same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this

normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the

parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a

bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).

They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with

them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while

pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't

call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the

cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every

new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent

situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I

would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not

right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she

could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband

felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas

station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this

is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe

that people have a right to choose their doctor. If the parent had

never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so

offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have

less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime

the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for

them.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own

kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all

these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,

who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on

all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going

to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would

feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if

they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin

with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,

but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge

for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your

thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

Some

parents just don’t think of a family doctor as someone that treats

kids. I see very few kids in my family med office. There are 2 peds

docs in town & they see almost all the local kids. I used to like the

peds stuff but anymore I find it very time consuming & does generate an

inordinate amount of after hrs calls.

Maybe those parents you noted are

the types that will never be satisfied with any answer they are given regarding

their kids, whether from a pediatrician or yourself.

Changing of doctors from fm to peds

Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I

would appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the

second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been

bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a

pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I

feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted

evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally,

with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology

consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them

fully. I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my

policy), sometimes, same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by

this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle

it if the parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child

had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They

didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The

mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over the

december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks.

She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the

message. (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what

to do in an emergency or urgent situation) So, I told her that if she

wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even

leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this

practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new

physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling. That time,

my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel! that I am not a gas

station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this is a

business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe that

people have a right to choose their doctor. If the parent had never

brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so offended.

But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have less trust in me for

some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I

will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for them.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with

my own kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were

all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,

who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her

teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other

dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way

that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad,

especially since they had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not

taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back

to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest

with your thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Share on other sites
Guest guest

Guest guest

Posted
Posted

Some

parents just don’t think of a family doctor as someone that treats

kids. I see very few kids in my family med office. There are 2 peds

docs in town & they see almost all the local kids. I used to like the

peds stuff but anymore I find it very time consuming & does generate an

inordinate amount of after hrs calls.

Maybe those parents you noted are

the types that will never be satisfied with any answer they are given regarding

their kids, whether from a pediatrician or yourself.

Changing of doctors from fm to peds

Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I

would appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the

second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been

bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a

pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I

feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted

evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally,

with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology

consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them

fully. I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my

policy), sometimes, same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by

this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle

it if the parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child

had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They

didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The

mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over the

december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks.

She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the

message. (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what

to do in an emergency or urgent situation) So, I told her that if she

wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even

leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this

practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new

physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling. That time,

my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel! that I am not a gas

station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this is a

business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe that

people have a right to choose their doctor. If the parent had never

brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so offended.

But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have less trust in me for

some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I

will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for them.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with

my own kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were

all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,

who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her

teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other

dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way

that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad,

especially since they had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not

taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back

to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest

with your thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

My first response, like those already mentioned, is " Why did you move? Was it

something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie,

insurance, etc.? "

Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along

with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone

have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to

have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office.

One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was

pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the

check she said, " Want some free advice? " She then told me that I shouldn't have

to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt

she was getting every penny's worth.

Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism

to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as

problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them.

Charlie Vargas

New Mountain Medicine

lin, NC

Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006

To:

Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack

ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go

elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and

if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient

demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, butthen why am I

still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the

perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents

whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me

aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome

here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular,

today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6

months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly

established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained

it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my

policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is

thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still

wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they

changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to

evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however. 

But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and

didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell

phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I

do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her

that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she

couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day)

that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new

physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my

husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a

gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a

business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people

have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to

me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that

maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

what I am doing forthem.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3

year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so

they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work

and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year

old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist

wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey

would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt

guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking

her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants.

I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen

Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

My first response, like those already mentioned, is " Why did you move? Was it

something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie,

insurance, etc.? "

Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along

with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone

have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to

have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office.

One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was

pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the

check she said, " Want some free advice? " She then told me that I shouldn't have

to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt

she was getting every penny's worth.

Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism

to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as

problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them.

Charlie Vargas

New Mountain Medicine

lin, NC

Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006

To:

Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack

ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go

elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and

if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient

demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, butthen why am I

still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the

perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents

whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me

aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome

here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular,

today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6

months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly

established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained

it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my

policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is

thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still

wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they

changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to

evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however. 

But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and

didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell

phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I

do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her

that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she

couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day)

that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new

physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my

husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a

gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a

business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people

have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to

me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that

maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

what I am doing forthem.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3

year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so

they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work

and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year

old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist

wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey

would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt

guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking

her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants.

I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen

Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

My first response, like those already mentioned, is " Why did you move? Was it

something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie,

insurance, etc.? "

Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along

with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone

have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to

have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office.

One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was

pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the

check she said, " Want some free advice? " She then told me that I shouldn't have

to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt

she was getting every penny's worth.

Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism

to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as

problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them.

Charlie Vargas

New Mountain Medicine

lin, NC

Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006

To:

Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds

What a great issue.

Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack

ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go

elsewhere for care.

Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and

if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient

demand.

I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, butthen why am I

still wanting for patients? "

Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason.

Gordon

At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the

perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents

whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me

aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome

here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular,

today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6

months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly

established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained

it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my

policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is

thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still

wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they

changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to

evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however. 

But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and

didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell

phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I

do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her

that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she

couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day)

that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new

physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my

husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a

gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a

business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people

have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to

me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that

maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in

what I am doing forthem.

I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3

year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so

they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work

and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year

old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist

wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey

would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt

guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking

her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants.

I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen

Mohamed

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Posted
Posted

I suggest asking why, but with a "detached curiosity."  People act in ways that may be hard to understand on the surface.  I try to never take anything personally and it is wonderful to accept and move on without personalizing.  I strongly believe we attract the people that best fit with our practice and everything seems to work out in the end.  I just sent out a letter to my medicare patients explaining that I am opting out and giving them the option to stay or go (with $$ discounts available to allow pts to stay regardless of $$).  The people who value me more than medicare are staying.  The people who value medicare more than me are sticking with medicare. Works great!Happily ever after......PamelaPamela Wible, MDFamily & Community Medicine, LLC3575 st. #220 Eugene, OR 97405roxywible@...www.idealmedicalpractice.orgOn Jul 7, 2006, at 9:44 AM, wrote: My first response, like those already mentioned, is "Why did you move? Was it something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie, insurance, etc.?" Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office. One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the check she said, "Want some free advice?" She then told me that I shouldn't have to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt she was getting every penny's worth. Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them. Charlie Vargas New Mountain Medicine lin, NC From: "L. Gordon " <gmooreidealhealthnetwork> Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006 To: Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds What a great issue. Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go elsewhere for care. Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient demand. I can anticipate that there are some out there saying "Yeah, butthen why am I still wanting for patients?" Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason. Gordon At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote: Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still wants to come? The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day) that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing forthem. I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants. I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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I suggest asking why, but with a "detached curiosity."  People act in ways that may be hard to understand on the surface.  I try to never take anything personally and it is wonderful to accept and move on without personalizing.  I strongly believe we attract the people that best fit with our practice and everything seems to work out in the end.  I just sent out a letter to my medicare patients explaining that I am opting out and giving them the option to stay or go (with $$ discounts available to allow pts to stay regardless of $$).  The people who value me more than medicare are staying.  The people who value medicare more than me are sticking with medicare. Works great!Happily ever after......PamelaPamela Wible, MDFamily & Community Medicine, LLC3575 st. #220 Eugene, OR 97405roxywible@...www.idealmedicalpractice.orgOn Jul 7, 2006, at 9:44 AM, wrote: My first response, like those already mentioned, is "Why did you move? Was it something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie, insurance, etc.?" Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office. One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the check she said, "Want some free advice?" She then told me that I shouldn't have to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt she was getting every penny's worth. Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them. Charlie Vargas New Mountain Medicine lin, NC From: "L. Gordon " <gmooreidealhealthnetwork> Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006 To: Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds What a great issue. Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go elsewhere for care. Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient demand. I can anticipate that there are some out there saying "Yeah, butthen why am I still wanting for patients?" Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason. Gordon At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote: Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still wants to come? The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day) that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing forthem. I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants. I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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I suggest asking why, but with a "detached curiosity."  People act in ways that may be hard to understand on the surface.  I try to never take anything personally and it is wonderful to accept and move on without personalizing.  I strongly believe we attract the people that best fit with our practice and everything seems to work out in the end.  I just sent out a letter to my medicare patients explaining that I am opting out and giving them the option to stay or go (with $$ discounts available to allow pts to stay regardless of $$).  The people who value me more than medicare are staying.  The people who value medicare more than me are sticking with medicare. Works great!Happily ever after......PamelaPamela Wible, MDFamily & Community Medicine, LLC3575 st. #220 Eugene, OR 97405roxywible@...www.idealmedicalpractice.orgOn Jul 7, 2006, at 9:44 AM, wrote: My first response, like those already mentioned, is "Why did you move? Was it something I did or didn't do, or was it because of some other reason, ie, insurance, etc.?" Perhaps a letter expressing gratitude for being involved until they left along with the gentle question of Why? may provide some valuable feedback. Does anyone have such a letter or brochure they would be willing to share? I would love to have such a tool and am considering developing one for my office. One day I was checking a patient out and, because the charge based on time was pretty big, I explained the prolonged services charge, etc. As she wrote the check she said, "Want some free advice?" She then told me that I shouldn't have to explain or apologize for anything; she valued my services very much and felt she was getting every penny's worth. Admittedly, I have more stories from the other side. Anyway, having a mechanism to follow-up for feedback may be a way to identify areas that are perceived as problems for patients as well as misperceptions by them. Charlie Vargas New Mountain Medicine lin, NC From: "L. Gordon " <gmooreidealhealthnetwork> Date: Fri Jul 07 10:52:56 CDT 2006 To: Subject: Re: Changing of doctors from fm to peds What a great issue. Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack ofconfidence.  If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the ptought to go elsewhere for care. Don't worry about turning away business.  IMPs are very very hotcommodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you shouldnot want for patient demand. I can anticipate that there are some out there saying "Yeah, butthen why am I still wanting for patients?" Excellent question.  Add your thoughts as to reason. Gordon At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote: Just a question tothe family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) outthere.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents whocome to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me aspatients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want tocome here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, thefather declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hardwork, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  Ialso dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I havebeen there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes,same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is thisnormal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if theparent still wants to come? The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had abedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it withthem.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But whilepregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn'tcall me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling thecell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to everynew patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgentsituation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable callingwhen she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( Iwould have called her the same or next day) that this practice was notright for her and that she should probably find a new physician that shecould work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husbandfelt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gasstation that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that thisis a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believethat people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent hadnever brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel sooffended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason haveless trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytimethe parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing forthem. I did notice that a similar situation happened with my ownkids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were allthese problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist,who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free onall her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still goingto the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist wouldfeel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or ifthey would be glad, especially since they had referred us to beginwith.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings,but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not chargefor the sealants. I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with yourthoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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From the Old Md in Drain, Oregon, Everyone will have a different breaking point on this issue is my guess. There are so many parts to this problem: how busy you are, how busy they are, what you or the other MD offers. With children, some pre teen or teenagers want a personal MD because they may think the adults are talking about them in the office behind their backs; to those kids it is a privacy issue. In this practice, I "share" a lot of my patients. I send the records of visits to the MD that is the "targeted" primary care MD. Sometimes the issue is insurance coverage since I don't take all insurances: they see the MD with better insurance coverage for some things and me when they want same day service and are willing to pay for it. Sometimes the patient decides they want to be with a practice that has hospital coverage for

some problems and see me for others, frequently this is an agreement between the other MD and myself. A few patients have come to me to work their way through a single problem ("I have arthritis, and my MD won't find out what is causing it" ) and then they go back to that guy after we take the time to piece it out and get a treatment plan that works. I really don't feel hurt about this, though I suppose I could feel that way (What, is there no gratitude in the world??) Well, I don't want them coming here out of gratitude. From my point of view, coming here is the patient's decision, not mine. I treat the sick man/woman who is here, to the best of my ability, without regard to the these issues. However, if it bothered me, I would not continue to see them, but would ask them to move on. I don't try to provide medical services to people

for whom there is a bad MD/patient "fit" when we meet on our first visit. For example, I don't take patients who only want me to sign their medical marijuana card: to these folks I give referral numbers about how to access marijuana programs using non-profit access groups. My personal view of medical treatment is that it doesn't work very well if either the patient or the MD has a bad feel about the therapeutic relationship. Incidentally, this sharing of patients is why I have my doubts about the validity of using a solid number of patients as "my list." That whole thing started when someone...was it the British medical system?...decided everything had to come through a gateway "primary care provider," and the MDs were all given a "list" of "their patients." It strikes my admittedly iconoclastic heart cold. Joanne

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Let me put in my two cents as a parent who did something very similar to what you have observed. For myself and my wife, we selected a micropractice FP for our own PCP, but for our children, we use a pediatric practice. It has nothing to do with trust issues. We felt that a pediatric office would be more likely to have an environment conducive to children and making them comfortable - toys, games, therapy dogs, etc. The peds office also had a larger group of on call doctors to cover the frequent visits kids sometimes require and frequently have regular rotating weekend hours...this was important to us even though access to our own PCP is easy, we wanted the flexibility of longer hours for our kids.

We also realized that pediatrics is more than illness care and check-ups. A big part of peds visits is parent education. Being new parents, we felt we would be better guided in behavioral issues by a pediatric specialist.

I don't think you should take the decision personally anymore than you should be insulted if patients stay at the huge practice of Drs. Rich, Young and Anonymous across town.

Brett L. Kinsler, DC

Rochester, NY

Full time chiropractic practice 10 years

Micropractice satellite since September 2005

Changing of doctors from fm to peds

Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I a I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Let me put in my two cents as a parent who did something very similar to what you have observed. For myself and my wife, we selected a micropractice FP for our own PCP, but for our children, we use a pediatric practice. It has nothing to do with trust issues. We felt that a pediatric office would be more likely to have an environment conducive to children and making them comfortable - toys, games, therapy dogs, etc. The peds office also had a larger group of on call doctors to cover the frequent visits kids sometimes require and frequently have regular rotating weekend hours...this was important to us even though access to our own PCP is easy, we wanted the flexibility of longer hours for our kids.

We also realized that pediatrics is more than illness care and check-ups. A big part of peds visits is parent education. Being new parents, we felt we would be better guided in behavioral issues by a pediatric specialist.

I don't think you should take the decision personally anymore than you should be insulted if patients stay at the huge practice of Drs. Rich, Young and Anonymous across town.

Brett L. Kinsler, DC

Rochester, NY

Full time chiropractic practice 10 years

Micropractice satellite since September 2005

Changing of doctors from fm to peds

Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I a I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Let me put in my two cents as a parent who did something very similar to what you have observed. For myself and my wife, we selected a micropractice FP for our own PCP, but for our children, we use a pediatric practice. It has nothing to do with trust issues. We felt that a pediatric office would be more likely to have an environment conducive to children and making them comfortable - toys, games, therapy dogs, etc. The peds office also had a larger group of on call doctors to cover the frequent visits kids sometimes require and frequently have regular rotating weekend hours...this was important to us even though access to our own PCP is easy, we wanted the flexibility of longer hours for our kids.

We also realized that pediatrics is more than illness care and check-ups. A big part of peds visits is parent education. Being new parents, we felt we would be better guided in behavioral issues by a pediatric specialist.

I don't think you should take the decision personally anymore than you should be insulted if patients stay at the huge practice of Drs. Rich, Young and Anonymous across town.

Brett L. Kinsler, DC

Rochester, NY

Full time chiropractic practice 10 years

Micropractice satellite since September 2005

Changing of doctors from fm to peds

Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you? How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I a I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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Naureen, you can't be God for everybody. Do your best, be happy, love people the way they are but don't let ego stand in the way of your self-esteem. If she calls, treat her and bill her. If she does not, let her go to the next doctor and don't think too much about it. You can't change misconceptions. Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.  In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is this normal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).  They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that ! I am not a gas station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so offended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for them.I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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Naureen, you can't be God for everybody. Do your best, be happy, love people the way they are but don't let ego stand in the way of your self-esteem. If she calls, treat her and bill her. If she does not, let her go to the next doctor and don't think too much about it. You can't change misconceptions. Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.  In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is this normal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).  They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that ! I am not a gas station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so offended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for them.I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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Naureen, you can't be God for everybody. Do your best, be happy, love people the way they are but don't let ego stand in the way of your self-esteem. If she calls, treat her and bill her. If she does not, let her go to the next doctor and don't think too much about it. You can't change misconceptions. Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would appreciate the perspective) out there.  Today something happened the second time.  Parents who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by this.  In particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly established by neurology consultation.  I also dxed beta thal trait and explained it to them fully.  I have been there for them, seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour.   I am human and I feel hurt by this.  Is this normal? Did this happen to you?  How would you handle it if the parent still wants to come?The first time happened 2 years ago.  The child had a bedwetting problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician).  They didn't even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them.  The mother still wanted to come, however.  But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks.  She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as indicated on the message.  (and I do explain to every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent situation)  So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she could work with and be comfortable calling.  That time, my husband felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that ! I am not a gas station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to choose their doctor.  If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the first place, I wouldn't feel so offended.  But somehow, I feel that maybe they for some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe in what I am doing for them.I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids.  I took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth.  My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist.  I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3 year old is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had referred us to begin with.  I felt guilty not taking her back for the original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the specialist who did not charge for the sealants.I am rambling.  Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.  Naureen Mohamed

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My response is yes you are being over sensitive. It is our nature to

worry about what we could do differently. You will always loose

patients to specialists due to family pressure, pressure of friends

etc. You will gain more by this than you will loose regarding

referrals. Many times these specialist are looking for primary care

doctors to dump patients off too. If you get so enmeshed it will

work against you. See this as a natural evolution of a practice.

There are patients out there that will see 3 different doctors for

the same problem and not tell the doctor of this just to see if they

get the same answer. In smaller communities frequently patients

would run from one small town to another. We basically just shared

the population. This is not ideal , seems to be patient driven.

>

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their

children to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by

this. In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and

hard work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I

am human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me

a chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right

for her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could

work with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in

the first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe

in what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I

had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially

since they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back

for the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

Naureen

> Mohamed

>

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Posted
Posted

My response is yes you are being over sensitive. It is our nature to

worry about what we could do differently. You will always loose

patients to specialists due to family pressure, pressure of friends

etc. You will gain more by this than you will loose regarding

referrals. Many times these specialist are looking for primary care

doctors to dump patients off too. If you get so enmeshed it will

work against you. See this as a natural evolution of a practice.

There are patients out there that will see 3 different doctors for

the same problem and not tell the doctor of this just to see if they

get the same answer. In smaller communities frequently patients

would run from one small town to another. We basically just shared

the population. This is not ideal , seems to be patient driven.

>

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their

children to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by

this. In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and

hard work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I

am human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me

a chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right

for her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could

work with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in

the first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe

in what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I

had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially

since they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back

for the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

Naureen

> Mohamed

>

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Posted
Posted

My response is yes you are being over sensitive. It is our nature to

worry about what we could do differently. You will always loose

patients to specialists due to family pressure, pressure of friends

etc. You will gain more by this than you will loose regarding

referrals. Many times these specialist are looking for primary care

doctors to dump patients off too. If you get so enmeshed it will

work against you. See this as a natural evolution of a practice.

There are patients out there that will see 3 different doctors for

the same problem and not tell the doctor of this just to see if they

get the same answer. In smaller communities frequently patients

would run from one small town to another. We basically just shared

the population. This is not ideal , seems to be patient driven.

>

> Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

appreciate the

> perspective) out there. Today something happened the second time.

Parents

> who come to me as patients and who have been bringing their

children to me

> as patients decide to take the child to a pediatrician, but still

want to

> come here themselves. I don't know why, but I feel annoyed by

this. In

> particular, today was a child who I wanted evaluated for epilepsy,

the

> father declined 6 months ago, and now, finally, with my help and

hard work,

> it has been firmly established by neurology consultation. I also

dxed beta

> thal trait and explained it to them fully. I have been there for

them,

> seeing them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same hour. I

am human

> and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this happen to you?

How would

> you handle it if the parent still wants to come?

> The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

problem and

> they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't even give me

a chance

> to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The mother still wanted to

come,

> however. But while pregnant, and over the december holidays, she

became

> very ill and didn't call me for 2 weeks. She said she felt

uncomfortable

> calling the cell phone as indicated on the message. (and I do

explain to

> every new patient how I do things and what to do in an emergency or

urgent

> situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling

when she

> really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

have

> called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right

for her

> and that she should probably find a new physician that she could

work with

> and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband felt that I was

being too

> sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas station that people can

change on

> a whim. He also reminded me that this is a business and that I

shouldn't

> turn people away. Of course, I believe that people have a right to

choose

> their doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in

the first

> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

they for

> some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if trust is

an issue,

> then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder if they believe

in what I

> am doing for them.

> I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

took my

> 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these problems

and

> cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who was very

kind and

> did all the work and put on sealants for free on all her teeth. My

husband

> and I and our 6 year old are still going to the other dentist. I

had

> wondered if the original dentist would feel the same way that the 3

year old

> is going to the specialist or if they would be glad, especially

since they

> had referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back

for the

> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

specialist

> who did not charge for the sealants.

> I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your thoughts.

Naureen

> Mohamed

>

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Posted
Posted

PEOPLE CHANGE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS BUT IT SEEMS THAT THES PEOPLE VALUE

YOU BUT MAY HAVE HAD PRESSURE FROM ELSEWHERE TO GO TO A PEDS

> What a great issue.

>

> Moving a patient from your practice is an implicit statement of lack of

> confidence. If the relationship is damaged beyond repair, the pt ought

> to go elsewhere for care.

>

> Don't worry about turning away business. IMPs are very very hot

> commodities and if you keep working the basic IMP principles, you

> should not want for patient demand.

>

> I can anticipate that there are some out there saying " Yeah, but then

> why am I still wanting for patients? "

> Excellent question. Add your thoughts as to reason.

> Gordon

> At 09:49 AM 7/7/2006, you wrote:

>

>>Just a question to the family docs ( or any others, I would

>>appreciate the perspective) out there. Today something happened the

>> second time. Parents who come to me as patients and who have been

>> bringing their children to me as patients decide to take the child to

>> a pediatrician, but still want to come here themselves. I don't know

>> why, but I feel annoyed by this. In particular, today was a child who

>> I wanted evaluated for epilepsy, the father declined 6 months ago, and

>> now, finally, with my help and hard work, it has been firmly

>> established by neurology consultation. I also dxed beta thal trait

>> and explained it to them fully. I have been there for them, seeing

>> them same day (as is my policy), sometimes, same

>>hour. I am human and I feel hurt by this. Is this normal? Did this

>> happen to you? How would you handle it if the parent still wants to

>> come?

>>

>>The first time happened 2 years ago. The child had a bedwetting

>> problem and they changed doctors (to a pediatrician). They didn't

>> even give me a chance to evaluate it or discuss it with them. The

>> mother still wanted to come, however. But while pregnant, and over

>> the december holidays, she became very ill and didn't call me for 2

>> weeks. She said she felt uncomfortable calling the cell phone as

>> indicated on the message. (and I do explain to every new patient how

>> I do things and what to do in an emergency or urgent

>>situation) So, I told her that if she wasn't comfortable calling when

>> she really needed me, and she couldn't even leave a message, ( I would

>> have called her the same or next day) that this practice was not right

>> for her and that she should probably find a new physician that she

>> could work with and be comfortable calling. That time, my husband

>> felt that I was being too sensitive, but I feel that I am not a gas

>> station that people can change on a whim. He also reminded me that

>> this is a business and that I shouldn't turn people away. Of course, I

>> believe that people have a right to choose their

>>doctor. If the parent had never brought the kids to me in the first

>> place, I wouldn't feel so offended. But somehow, I feel that maybe

>> they for some reason have less trust in me for some reason and if

>> trust is an issue, then everytime the parent comes in, I will wonder

>> if they believe in what I am doing for them.

>>

>>I did notice that a similar situation happened with my own kids. I

>> took my 3 year old for a dental check up and there were all these

>> problems and cavities, so they referred us to a pediatric dentist, who

>> was very kind and did all the work and put on sealants for free on all

>> her teeth. My husband and I and our 6 year old are still going to the

>> other dentist. I had wondered if the original dentist would feel the

>> same way that the 3 year old is going to the

>>specialist or if they would be glad, especially since they had

>>referred us to begin with. I felt guilty not taking her back for the

>> original cleanings, but felt guilty not taking her back to the

>> specialist who did not charge for the sealants.

>>

>>I am rambling. Please feel free to be honest with your

>>thoughts. Naureen Mohamed

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