NEXT!

I waited nearly 2 months to get an appointment with the OB/GYN a friend recommended. I stopped by the office Monday so they could copy my insurance card ahead of time.

I've heard horror stories about wait times in doctors' offices around here. I showed up 10 minutes early with my paperwork filled out. I brought a book to keep me occupied and my California protocol: if I don't get in to see the Dr within 30 minutes of my appointment, I complain and reschedule. My time is valuable, too.

Today, I waited 40 minutes before approaching the receptionist who said I was "next." How long is "next" in minutes?

Shortly thereafter, I was called in to talk to a nurse who said the Dr was running late because of a delivery and there were three other patients before me. I told the nurse I appreciated the unpredictable nature of their work, but when they're backed up like today, they should let their patients know.

I asked the receptionist for a new appointment--first of the day or first after lunch. The soonest opening: April 30. The nurse told me to call ahead to do my intake over the phone and avoid the wait for that.

On one hand, I feel good about not caving to the cultural bullshit of indefinite waits at RGV doctors offices. OTOH, I'm another two months away from getting answers and dealing with health issues. I guess that gives me time to shop around for other providers. Still, it was a disappointing introduction to the local health care system.