IT WAS gratifying to learn lately that hospitals are trying to cut waiting time. But a recent experience I had revealed a curious reason for an unnecessary delay.
In January, I went for my appointment at a specialist clinic in a restructured hospital. While I was on time, the doctor was 55 minutes late. As my examination ended, I asked her why she was late.
She replied that she was at a meeting and did not know she had patients waiting, until she was alerted by her nurse. The nurse herself did not know the doctor was unaware of my appointment until I complained about the lengthy wait.The doctor also tried to justify her tardiness by saying that she assumed her patients would have to go for their blood tests first before seeing her. I had no blood test scheduled for that appointment.
I am disappointed because the doctor was completely unfazed about wasting a patient's time, unaware of her appointments and case details, and apparently did not prioritise her valuable time.
I was concerned enough to register my unhappiness through the hospital's feedback box the same day in January, including my contact details. It's March now and the hospital has not replied yet.
