Do you think it's rude when a doctor takes a call during your appointment?

Question

I am shocked that many people are insulted by this? I myself know MD's responsibilities lay way further than just my appointment.

There was a question posted where a young man asked a similiar question.

I am a RN ( Nurse ) who has been on the other end of the phone calling the MD when thier patient has been in the hospital.. now has chest pain, signs of a heart attack or is actiively dying... these are URGENT matters and often similiar calls come through during MD office hours.

We must relize that there are other patients who are much more ill with all kinds of things that MD's are responsible for...... I have been on the end of calling an MD unable to reach them due to seeing patients in thier office. I had to document 10 calls to an MD with no return call to me.. I had to transfer a patient to ICU. becuase with NO return call I have NO orders.. and can't act withouth these..

The world does not revolve around 1 patient.. and we must relize the size of MD's responisblities

Answer 1

i agree...the doctor has multiple responsibilities

Answer 2

No i think it's perfectly fine.

Answer 3

They May be On The Phone With Someone ABOUT That Patient

Unless You Know Its A Family Emergency, GET THEM OFF THE ******* PHONE. Thats totally rude and im with you

Answer 4

I don't think it's rude at all - doctors have emergencies and it were me having the emergency, I would appreciate a prompt response as well.  An apology from the doctor when he returns is always appreciated.

Answer 5

I agree with you. In fact my DR. took a call last week I was there. I'm sure he wouldn't mind me taking an important call while we were together.

Answer 6

When I was pregnant, my OB came in and told me that she has no time for my appointment an that she was in a hurry during a emergency. I don't think it was rude of her - or if she would of answer a important call I would be fine - as long as I got to reschedule my appointment and my needs are met medically - I'm happy..

Answer 7

I completely agree with you.  The doctor knows far better than his patient as to the necessity of taking a call at an inconvenient time.  We all have to remember to put ourselves in another's place and cut the criticism and entitlement issue.

Answer 8

no its not offensive at all. now if a doctor is on the phone with his girlfriend or her boyfriend and the conversation is on and on and on, then yea its offensive. yes there are people who are in much worse conditions, and it SHOULD be understandable if the doctor has to rush out and to help someone else.

Answer 9

it's fine, you are not their only responsibility, and as long as you are not seeing them for an emergency (chest pains, not breathing, intense bleeding... etc.) it is fine.

Answer 10

if it's in a hospital, i wouldn't mind; at a private practice, i would