Today I had the privilege (?) of going to a new Endodontics practice since the root canal, that had already kept me in the dentist chair for four hours, still needed attention.
I, of course, had the privilege of filling out new patient forms including my medication list and medical history. When I met the dentist, he reviewed what I had written (fabulous start by the way, I hate filling out forms that never get looked at). He said, and I quote:
- “Looks like you’re in great health” Funny considering there was an actual question asking how my health was on the form. I checked poor.
- “Blood pressure good?”
Yup. That’s all he asked. Thankfully my mouth wasn’t numb, so I could properly respond. “My blood pressure is fine. Just so you know, I wear an insulin pump, in case it starts beeping…” I trailed off as he again asked how my blood pressure was. Is this some sort of new dentist protocol? I know plenty of people are walking around with undiagnosed hypertension. But if you’re that concerned, take my blood pressure. Otherwise, listen to me tell you about the pancreas in my pocket.
And then I mentioned Rheumatoid Arthritis. Why? Because it’s actually important. Most dentists want to put you on amoxicillin after dental surgery. But that antibiotic and methotrexate can be harmful.
How about asthma? Last time I checked, breathing was still important, right?
Yes, I’m complaining. So if you’re in charge of creating forms or training new physicians, or just love complainers, listen up. I see the value in your forms. I don’t mind taking the time to fill them out. But do me a favor. Take the time to look at them and ask me about what I wrote down. I promise not to swing my purple pancreas by its infusion tubing and whack you in the head.