Thursday, April 2, 2009

To Complain or Not to Complain, That Is The Question

Today I had to do what every woman loves. I got to schedule my yearly “You’re doing things that shouldn’t be done without dinner and drinks first.” Only this time with a new doctor. Yuck. See, I switched healthcare plans and now I have a new one that, for whatever reason, always makes me feel like I’m going to the free clinic. I don’t want to name names, but it rhymes with Paiser Kermanente.

Anyway, I had to leave behind my beloved OB/GYN, Dr. Allison, who saw me through my pregnancy and beyond. Seriously, I loved that woman. She was awesome. But, I put on my Big Girl panties, accepted reality, and did my research. I listed, in order, my preference for which doctors I would like to use through my new healthcare – just in case my first choice wasn’t accepting new patients.

I called and talked to the Appointment Nazi. She was nice enough and explained that they have a “oaieanfafd” policy. I don’t remember what word she used, but basically, there is no limit to the number of patients the doctors see. And then she told me they typically schedule the yearly exams about 4-6 weeks out, which I was expecting. But, my First Choice doctor didn’t have anything available until May 20. By my math, that’s actually about 8 weeks out, so I asked the next logical question… “Okay, well, does Dr. Second Choice have anything a little sooner?”

And she laughed. Seriously. She laughed at me. “HAHAHA. Uh, no, she doesn’t. HAHAHA.” Laughed at me like I was a complete moron for asking a perfectly legitimate question. Or WAS it a stupid question? Is there some way I should have already known the answer? I WISH I had innocently said, “I’m sorry, but did I say something funny?” But I felt too stoooopid to say much more than, “Okay, thanks.”

It is times like this that I wish I were more Suburban Bitch. If I were, I just might have given her a reason to cry instead of laugh. Part of me thinks to myself that I don’t know what her day been like, maybe it’s been a rough one already. But, then right after that, I think to myself…but SHE doesn’t know what my day has been like, either, and clearly that didn’t factor into the way she communicated with me. Why should I give her that same consideration?

Is it possible to turn the other cheek, but still call to complain? If she and I were friends or something, and she had done that, I’d turn the other cheek and move on (and maybe call her a bitch under my breath). But this woman is paid to do a job, and I’m sure Paiser Kermanente wouldn’t want this woman alienating the people that PAY THEIR BILLS.

Ugh. I'm sick with a terrible cold and now I get treated like this? Thanks, lady. Thanks a lot.

7 comments:

Kally said...

Now you have me worrying. I have to make an appointment with the "girl doctor" for some time in June. So I guess I should be looking for one and making the appointment now? Here's hoping I get a nicer receptionist. Sorry you had to deal with such a B :(

foxy said...

And on top of all that, you boohooed over a movie that I'd suggested... stupid Nicholas Sparks - I agree!

I hate it when I think of the perfect comeback AFTER something like that happens. Because some people DO need to be told - in a nice way or otherwise - that the way they're acting isn't acceptable and won't be tolerated.

Something In The Glass said...

Not to worry, Kally... Depending on your insurance, I may be able to suggest a couple of docs.

Hey Foxy Gal, it's all good. Like I said, sometimes it's good to get it all out. I agree - I wish I'd had my comeback when I was actually on the phone with her. I HATE when I do that. :o)

Coco said...

When people pull that shit on me I always act super sweet and say, "I am so sorry but did I say something funny?" OR "I am so sorry to put you out with such a question, but I just am not informed about this kind of thing."
It ALWAYS makes the bitch on the other end feel bad.
And I have been known to call supervisors. Not kidding.
But in my defense I ALWAYS call supervisors when people have done a good job. I have even called twice on checkout girls at our grocery store to tell the manager how awesome they are!

Anniebanannie said...

what an idiot. I can't stand people like that. I get into this passive self of mine that doesn't ever say anything and think of the BEST things later, that I SHOULD have said. Wish I was more of a johnny-on-the-spot kinda gal.

Good luck with the appt. (even tho is a ways out.)

It Just 'Dawned' on Me! said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Katy said...

DANG girl. I'm so sorry you've had to go through this crud. Yucky!