Before my visit to the doctor last week, I hadn't seen one in THREE years. I am one of those people who NEVER goes to the doctor unless it's serious. I don't know what it is about hospitals and clinics, but I can't wait to get out of them as soon as I arrive.
I'm trying to change this. I have great medical insurance through my job as an ESL teacher. It covers both me and my husband. This is great, because he is self-employed through his yoga business and needs it.
He has really bad allergies in the spring. He never had allergies until he came to the USA in 2006. Now they are serious. He makes use of our medical plan and has seen both a naturopath and an acupuncturist for his allergies. He's gotten some relief from seeing different people.
I, on the other hand, have somehow equated visiting any health practitioner with catching the plague. It's an unpleasant, negative experience in my mind, so I NEVER go. (Well, not until recently)
But does it have to be unpleasant or even negative?
After seeing my husband get so much relief from his allergy symptoms, I've decided I'm not going to try and tough it out when I feel something is not quite right.
So a week ago, I went to the doctor. It was a pleasant experience. People were nice and personable and genuinely there to take care of me. I have to return today at 4pm to check on some lab results.
What's even better is that the new clinic I've decided to go to is right next to my favorite sushi shop and coffee shop, not to mention the movie theater. It's perfect.
Since I equate sushi, movies, and an occasional coffee with good things, perhaps the clinic can be added to the mix. After I stop in and get my lab results, I can stop off for a latte or crepe after. You see, I'm changing my mind about these doctor visits. They can actually be inspiring!
Do you like to go to the doctor? Do you go regularly or do you wait until something major is bothering you? What is your experience with visiting the doctor?
I usually avoid doctors offices. I do try to go to a "wellness event" once a year for blood tests, BP check, weight and BMI check, etc. I have spent many years of my life driving others to the Dr. and have spent many hours in waiting rooms.
ReplyDeleteI'm the same. However recently I've decided that THREE YEARS with no check-up is a bit too long. I'm going to try and go annually.
DeleteYes, I agree, an annual checkup is very worth while, and a tasty snack afterwards.
ReplyDeleteSnacks after doctor visits are the best! Yes, an annual check-up is something important that I have not been doing! I'm changing that!
DeleteI have regular checkups. I don't always go when I'm sick, though, and I'm paying the price for that now, with my foot. I should have had it checked out long before I did.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad your new clinic is near places where you can have something nice to eat and drink after the medical visit! That can be your reward for going. :-)
Hi Tina, I hope your foot heals soon. I'm going now for the same reasons. I'm going for preventative care and just to see check and see that everything is okay. Yes, I rewarded myself yesterday with a latte at my favorite coffee house across the street.
DeleteI do not like to go to the doctor - at all. But I sometimes get hypochondria and I end up convincing myself that I'm dying :) so a trip to the doctor eases my mind. It's wonderful that you found a good clinic that you love!
ReplyDeleteYes, knowing that I've done all I can also eases my mind when, like you, I feel there must be something wrong. You never know, so I think it's good to get a check-up from time to time....
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