Good Hands

I visited Doogie Howser today......my young  lung doc.  I had a pulmonary doc for nineteen years, but this past year,
he moved to a hospital that does not take my insurance, so he recommended Doogie. (not his real name)
My original doc had become a dear friend, and I know in my heart that if our paths had not crossed I would not be here today.

Doogie is a good doc, but it has been an interesting budding relationship.  First meeting, I was sick, second meeting I was sick,  he seemed to be rather perplexed that I was  sick the first couple of months that he knew me.  He also seemed uncomfortable with me.  To be honest, I called my other doc and asked for other recommendations, but he kept assuring me that Doogie was an excellent doc.  So, I decided to hang in there.
Doogie mentioned to me today, that he thought  it would be best if  I came to visit when I first feel sick and not wait until I am really sick.  I am thinking, "but you need the challenge, you're young, you need me to keep you on your toes."  But I agreed that it would be best, we also agreed on  regular check-ups, and that I would call if  I need him.

We also got to know each other a little better today. We shared a little personal history, some family info,
and discovered some common ground.  There is some sort of relationship beginning to be built here, I don't think it will be like the one with my other doc, but I do believe that we are dancing the doc/patient dance and we are in step  with each other.  Health care is personal.......and not only do you want a competent doc, but there has to be trust, and respect there too.  I don't want to be a number or a symptom, or a case.  I want my caregiver to at least have some knowledge of who I am as a person.....if my life is in your hands,then please
know me.

So, I left the office today with the satisfaction we both learned  a little about each other,  and that my good health is important to us both, and that we are not strangers any more.  He respected my thoughts that I shared about my treatment and he listened.  I think I am in good hands.