If Hippocrates Were Alive Today He'd Be Spinning in His Grave

At the very least, the father of medicine may be considering putting his child up for adoption. Truth is, we know very little about what Hippocrates really believed, but, having grown up the son of a country doctor, I can tell you that the practice of medicine today ain't what it used to be.
I'm not talking about the marvelous breakthroughs. There are plenty. Rather, I'm focusing on one particular aspect of modern medical practice. And, as the public spirited guy I have proven to be on so many occasions, I've prepared a quiz to help you better appreciate my concern. There is one actual, factual answer provided to each of these multi-choice questions. Are you ready? Here goes:

1) I call a heart specialist, to whom I've been referred by my doctor. The receptionist is setting up my appointment. After a time is set, and directions to the building are provided, she says, "And, yes, please don't forget to..."

A) Bring photos of your family. We want to get to know you.
B) Bring a list of your medications.
C) Bring your insurance card.

2) There is a sign in my doctor's office which reads, "If you are unable to pay for today's visit, you must..."

A) Not worry about it. Your health is all that matters.
B) Sign an agreement accepting liability for today's charges.
C) Make arrangements to return and see your doctor at a time when you can make payment.


3) I call my doctor's office and the recording instructs me to push "ONE" as a priority caller if:

A) You're feeling really sick
B) You're a long-time patient
C) If (you're paying an additional charge and) you are a Priority Patient


4) There is another sign in my doctor's office addressed to the elderly. The sign reads, "As of September 1st,..."

A) We are starting a new program to provide special services to our elderly patients.
B) We will need to see your Medicare card at each visit.
C) We will no longer be honoring Medicare Insurance.

5) You go to a new doctor and are given four forms to fill out. Form one is a medical history, the other forms are...

A) Requesting additional information on any medical problems, and one page on insurance.
B) Requesting additional information on any medical problems, with two pages on insurance.
C) Nothing but insurance and "How in the world will you pay us" forms.


Okay, let's exchange papers and find out how we did.

Answer One is C. And, even if it's just because you know I'm an ornery old man, you've probably guessed two through four are also "C." Yep, that's the sad facts. But, I think you will agree that the time we have spent here, venting together, makes you feel somewhat better.

Do you agree? Good. That will be $25.00. Thanks for visiting.