The ‘nastiness’ (if there were ever such a word, surely not) began 10min before the consultation. There I was, checking out the background information and previous tests for a patient who was going for an operation, and painstakingly calling up drug info to look for a suitable prophylactic agent the correct dose for patient X (cuz X is allergic to all penicillins), and there X was, outside the clinic, complaining why she had to see so many doctors in one day and go through such rigorous processes.

Here’s the gist of the nightmare:

- Why do I have to wait so long to get all these things done? So many clinics, this is so inefficient!
- Sorry mam…
- And you, what were you doing? I saw the previous patient going out 10min ago, what are you doing? Taking your own sweet time? I’m a patient you know!
- Sorry mam, I think you’re mistaken, I needed to check out which antibiotic would be suitable for you since you have so many allergies.
- (cuts me off), you call yourself a doctor? You don’t have a caring heart.
- Mam, please would you listen to my explanation. I was checking out your background information so that everything will be ready for your operation. I know that you have to go through many processes and it’s a hassle.
- If you know, you call yourself a doctor, why can’t you tell your hospital not to do such a thing?
- Yes mam, I would love to. Perhaps you could also offer some suggestions because the hospital would… value your feedback.
- HOW DARE YOU INSULT ME? Do you think I know how to run a hospital! If I could, I would run a hospital already! Why would I come here?!
- Mam, I did not insult you, I merely said that the hospital will value your feedback…
- What religion are you? I’m sure you’re not Christian, you don’t have a caring heart!
- Mam, I do not think that my religion should be the topic of YOUR MEDICAL consultation. I think we should talk about your problem, since you are busy and in a hurry. I just have to ask you a few basic questions and then you can sign the consent form.
- You are just using me for practice is it? Don’t think I don’t know, I’m medical profession too you know… (blah blah), (quotes name of a community hospital in Sg), my nephews are lecturers at XYZ (medical university) and my son is a professor at (foreign medical uni). And I’m (so-and-so’s) patient too!
- Mam, if I were using you for practice you wouldn’t be signing a consent form here. Let’s get back to your medical problem ok?

Phew. What a nightmare!