Dooley Noted: 12/11/2015
In a world of pharmaceutical commercials aimed at consumers, I am still one of those weird people who loves going to health appointments.
I love learning about myself, and I enjoy interacting with other health professionals.
Today, I went to the dentist.
And I usually love it.
But today, I was lectured and bullied more than educated.
Both the dental hygienist and dentist attempted to motivate me with pressure tactics.
Since I am the eternal patient advocate, I don’t take that time off when I am the patient.
I ask a host of questions, and I can easily frustrate a practitioner with my quest for an education.
I also never make the decision in the office. Buyer’s remorse is not my style when it comes to my health.
I use some tactics that I advise my patients to use, to make sure you know your options.
1. I declined the radiographs. The hygienist insisted and stated they wouldn’t be able to do the cleaning without it (Not legal). I conceded, because they took digital films that expose the person much less to radiation. And I wanted the films for my records.
2. I demanded copies of the radiographs. They belong to me. They must supply them by law. Get copies and keep them in a secure email file. That way, you always know the state of the structures at that time. You can also decline future imaging that may be unnecessary.
3. Don’t forget that healthcare is a business. If they make you wait too long (45 minutes at one point, for me, forcing me to reschedule appointments), let them know about their poor customer service.
4. Compare opinions. In August, I obtained a completely different opinion about my teeth than the one I got today. I starkly doubt my teeth have changed that significantly in 4 months. Again remember: healthcare is a business. And until you trust your practitioner, expect the greasy wheel. Stay tough. Get answers and explanations.
5. When you take a good deal, look for the hidden agenda. I gladly pay out of network for all of my healthcare to avoid the rigmarole of hidden fees and pressure tactics by practitioners. Remember: people who take insurance are used to overcharging insurance companies just to keep their doors open.
6. If it feels like a car deal, it’s probably because it IS. I got trapped in a chair for TWO hours – and they didn’t even clean my teeth (the reason I was there). They tried to sell me on a deep cleaning, costing $295 per QUADRANT. Mind you, my teeth were cleaned in May – without incident.
7. I didn’t want to be a VOMIT (victim of medical imaging technology), so I asked for copies of the films so I could get secondary and tertiary opinions. That request was like pulling teeth (pun intended), and they had me sign a bevy of release forms.
8. I promptly booked an appointment with my original, non-pressure cooker dentist. I’d like to know what he thinks about their recommendations. Never negate a trusted relationship you’ve built, even when getting a second or third opinion. Weigh the data and make your choice.
Not only did the new place not score a new patient, but they made an epic waste of theirs and my time. I walked out strong and confident, yet they looked at me like I was nuts. Good thing I am not easily swayed.
But, I got some cool imaging that I will keep on file for the long haul – so I can walk into any dentist’s office with quality films, knowing I didn’t become a VOMIT or a victim of pressure tactics.
I went for a teeth cleaning – and I left without one but with a strong sense of self.
I suppose that alone was worth the time spent.
It also validated that I rarely make my patients wait – and I never pressure them into future visits. I educate and let themmake decisions for themselves.
I hope you make educated decisions and never let anyone scare you in that chair.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
