I have always had a
great respect for doctors.
Growing up I spent (more
than) my fair share of time in hospitals, as well as an adult (for various
reasons and relations). I do not have a fear of doctors or hospitals. If
anything I feel quite at home among the chaos, quiet, and antiseptic smells
mixing with life, death and uncertainty.
So, with my comfort in
and respect for the medical profession, I find it interesting that after all of
these years I’m still not so sure how the professionals feel about me.
While it seems that
doctors (mostly….well, ‘almostly’) tolerate an inquisitive patient, someone who
is actually participating in their own health care by asking questions,
challenging their doctor to explore options for treatment, etc, it’s different when
you are the caregiver for the patient.
Doctors’ reaction to
and engagement with me since I started taking care of Miss Cathy have run the
gamut from A to Rx.
My routine has been
that when I accompany her to see one of her doctors I always take her meds and
my composition book to take notes. I sit in the room with her and try not to
interrupt or interject unless I’m asked a question directly or need to clarify
something that’s she’s said in error.
Lately, l’ve started
taping her meetings with my iPhone a) to refresh my memory and 2) to have proof
of what went down during the appointment if/when I’m challenged on something
that was or wasn’t said while with a doctor.
In the last ten days
Miss Cathy and I have been to see her ophthalmologist and her neurologist. She’s
had an MRI, MRA and is scheduled for a Diabetic Retinopathy to help explain her
recent loss of vision and (ongoing) confusion.
So far there seems to
be more questions than answers…but not to worry, I’m taking notes.
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