No one likes going to the doctor.  No one likes going because usually they’re going because something is wrong with them and no one wants anything to be wrong with them.  I have been to the doctor many many times, probably more often than the “normal” person.  There is something I notice about the experience every single time.  I notice the personality of the nurses who do the initial talking and measuring of height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, etc.  I also notice the personality of the doctors who diagnose and treat me.  The thing that sticks out the most to me is if they are cheerful, friendly, caring, and I guess it stems down to if they appear happy.  I think many patients don’t want the nurses or doctors to chit chat with them.  The patient doesn’t feel well, they don’t want someone asking them how they feel or chit chatting about miscellaneous things that are not important.  They want to be diagnosed, have some type of treatment, and go home and rest.  I on the other hand find that I have a much better experience at the doctor when they are chit chatty (yes, me, the person who is afraid of talking to people).

Some nurses just call your name, tell you what to do (stand on the scale; put your arm here; etc) and don’t say a single word more.  A hello would be nice, a how are you would be nice, some personality would be nice.  You don’t need to know my life story and I don’t need to know yours but it wouldn’t hurt to show a little more than “I’m just here doing my job”.

One of my favorite doctors is this one guy I saw twice.  He isn’t my primary doctor (although I tried to pick him as it – but he was full – for obvious reasons), but I saw him once or twice when they had to squeeze me in for an appointment.  He was just so cheerful.  He seemed like he genuinely cared about how I was doing.  He asked me what I did, if I was a student or if I worked.  He pretty much took an interest in me (his patient), which is what all doctors should do.  Doctors should be personable.  I don’t want to go to some doctor who is just some quiet guy with no personality.  The last doctor I saw was pretty much in and out.  I know you have other patients to get to, but please this is my time.

What about a doctor’s visit makes it more “enjoyable” for you?