the epitome of REAL healthcare

Today I had my first visit with my new doctor here in Madison. His name is Frank Grazziano, and he comes highly recommended from PA friend and contributor, Heidi Nass. (hey heidi!!!)

I must say that this was the most thorough doctor's visit that I have ever had in my life!

Before I actually met with the doctor, and after the medical assistant took my vitals, I met with a Pharmacist to go over my med history, and a social worker to discuss any needs outside of HIV (she actually graduated last year from the same program that I am in). When the doc finally came in he had a physicians assistant WITH him (whom he jokingly introduces by a name that is not her own), and they spent about 45 minutes examining me and gathering any/all relevant medical history. Then, when he starts to review my labs and realizes that everything is normal -- kidney and liver are functioning properly, viral load is undetectable, immune system is perfect -- he commences to tell me that I have just wasted his time and that he could have used my slot to see someone who is really sick! I FELL OUT OF MY CHAIR!!! LOL

Is this what healthcare is really suppose to look like?! Is it normal for me to leave the doctor's office feeling like I am really in the hands of people who are genuinely concerned about my well-being, and not just how I am going to pay for their time?!

If it isn't then tough, because the bar has now officially been raised and I will NEVER again settle for anything less!