Today, after several days of fighting The Crud, I decided it was time to go to the doctor and get some antibiotics. I had resisted up to this point for many reasons, not the least of which was the feeling of being a loser for having to go see a doctor practically just after getting off the plane. Sad. Secondary and tertiary reasons were that I hate doctors, and I hate to spend my precious first days in NZ (which are supposed to be fun) in their company.
The other reason (let's be honest) is that I sorta dreaded my first foray into State-run medicine. Anyone who has listened to talk radio has heard Neil Boortz and his clones rant and rave about the horrors of socialized medicine. I envisioned long lines, ineffective care, lack of interest from the doctor, and general chaos and unpleasantness. But, the Crud was very annoying and I have a job interview on Friday, so I needed something stronger than what the Chemist could offer (another blog entry for the future, trust me...)
So, while Stacey attended an informational meeting with a colleague, I followed the signs to the "medical centre" in downtown Auckland. As I approached the building, I noted it was clean and very new looking. Inside was a lobby and reception desk, and an adjoining pharmacy (chemist). I sheepishly walked up to the counter and proceeded to explain I had not a clue where to start, but that I had my passport and a sinus problem, and was hoping someone could see me.
She had me fill out a form, and told me to come back at 11:30 (about 1.5 hours later). I did so. At 11:35, the doctor emerged from his office, apologized for being making me wait (!) and showed me in. The room appeared to double as his office and an examination room. He had me sit down and explain my symptoms, while he typed them into my records and asked follow-up questions. I was struck by how informal it all seemed, and how his approach and the surroundings had completely caused me to lower my guard. He gave me a brief physical exam, and explained what he was listening / looking for. Then, he announced that his assessment was that I had a mild sinus infection and possibly an early case of bronchitis. He prescribed an antibiotic, again explaining to me that he was going with a less potent version based on my symptoms, and that if it did not clear up in a week that I should see a doctor in Wellington and get something stronger. I said thank you, went out and paid the clerk a nominal fee, then went next door and got my drug. Total time spent was about 45 minutes, including the 5-block walk to the med center.
During the consultation, I commented to the doctor that they had a very nice and well-run facility. He cautiously / diplomatically pointed out that it was a new branch, in an affluent location, and that centres do vary in their resources. Even so, I was still very impressed and very relieved. I know it wasn't surgery or anything major, but it gives me a lot more confidence in the system.
So, there's my ramble for today. Tomorrow Stacey and I will be hiking and exploring the Coromandel Peninsula from our base motel in Thames. From the little we have seen on the drive in, it looks like it's going to be a spectacular tour.
-William
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3 comments:
Hi Joan! Thanks for the wunderground link, I had not seen that site yet. Be sure to e-mail Stacey and ask her about the tiny theater she saw a film in while in Palmerston North! She got to pick her own seat (out of about 16) Hope you are doing well.
Hello Jennifer! Nice to hear from you. We were just talking the other day while on the road, reminiscing about the party at Sally and Ben's, and wondering how you were doing these days. You know you are always welcome to come see us--it's a special place and highly recommended (but of course you expect recent transplants to say that!) Geocaching is new to me, I will look that up for sure. No Xenas sighted yet, though. Stay in touch! =)
Bonjour Eric! How's Jewels and the kids? Hope doing well! I am glad to hear that your home theater plans are progressing nicely. Soon the hum of the Enterprises engines will sound more appropriate in your home! Yes, we shall undoubtedly someday put the social medicine to the test but in the meantime I could not resist a jab at conservative talk radio. They have it here, too, but they have a funny accent which makes it more pleasing to the ears. =O
Ken, always making trouble!!! Yes, the Year of the Xena. It went down in infamy, that's for sure. Found strips of leather, plastic and beads all over the living room for weeks after that party. The sword swinging was quite impressive, though, as I recall.
Oh, forgot to mention to all who wished luck on the job interview: Thanks! It must have helped, I was offered the job. However, though it was an incredibly hard decision, I decided not to take it (for a multitude of reasons) and we have continued our plans to start off in Wellington. It was nice to feel a bit wanted...I just hope there are more people that feel that way in the future! =)
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