Mixed Feelings

March 13, 2007 - 10:00 AM by


I have very mixed feelings about doctors in Israel.

On the one hand, most have the bedside manner of a rock.

Example:

Can you tell me what those drops are you just put into my eyes? What do they do?
They help me do my job.
(duhhh. Zen, zen, zen. Breathe. Self-restraint) But do they widen the pupils or…?
Nope.

End of conversation.

Or:

What I’m worried about is losing my eyesight.
Obviously
So I guess the question is whether or not surgery is the best option?
We’ll see

End of conversation.

On the other hand…

I’ll document your son’s medical condition so that it can be written off. That way you won’t be billed for the surgery. Otherwise they’ll make you pay for it.
Gee. I don’t know what to say. Wow thanks.
Don’t say anything. Just let me know when you want to schedule surgery.

OR…

I’m not covered yet by my health policy. It hasn’t kicked in.
Never mind. I’ll treat you anyway. I’m a doctor and that’s what I do. It’s humanitarian
Wow. I don’t know what to say. Gee thanks
Don’t say anything. Now go tell the next patient he can come in.

See the conundrum?

Tags: • Category: Immigrant Moments, Israeliness 

Comments

2 Comments on Mixed Feelings

  1. Benji on Tue, Mar 13th 2007 10:51 AM

    2. “I went to an Israeli doctor the other day. He told me to drop my pants and cough, which would have been ok if I hadn’t gone in with an earache. Thank you, thank you, please tip your waitstaff…”

  2. Stephanie on Tue, Mar 13th 2007 11:02 AM

    3. LOL!@! Benji, you’re a riot. sf

Leave a Comment





© 2012 ISRAELITY | Sitemap