Growing up in Lancaster County, going to the doctor was an occasion to dress nicely, be polite, don’t ask questions. We looked at our doctors like gods. No one ever dreamed of questioning the doctor’s decision. This attitude spilled over to include the hospital.
My attitude has changed and I now hold my doctor accountable. I interview before I choose.
Once, after spending hundreds of dollars on a medication to treat a a misdiagnosis, I called my doctor and asked to be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses associated with his misdiagnosis. I was not hostile, and we had a very civil discussion. He said “Oh, I thought your insurance was paying for the medication” (It wasn’t). But, by golly, he sent me a check.
We do not hold our doctors accountable. Many instances can be resolved without malpractice suits by discussing treatment or a bill. These men and women are not gods, but humans and are not infallible. I would urge anyone to confront their doctor if need be. As well as the hospital.
