Well, I have to say I'm pretty damned impressed. Local medical operation.
So in the midst of the “life reset” I’ve undertaken during this horrible opportunity I finally decided it was time to get put up on the rack and get a thorough check up. I have really good coverage and lots of time (leave) to do what I need.
I have issues with gout, an orthopedic situation as a result of walking funny during gout attacks, aaaand high blood pressure. I’ve been one of those people who goes to a “doc in a box” WHEN something arises. No regular preventative care.
VCU Health (formerly “MCV”) is one of the two big hospital operations around here. I’d like to note that these were mostly for non-critical care type things and away from the main facilities. I didn’t realize how large my alma mater’s operation was.
So last week I call to see an orthopedic podiatrist. Knowing this has to be in person (x-ray) I expect a long wait. Nope. Appointment on Monday. Okay. Straight into x-ray. In and out in 45 minutes. Got an steroid injection in my other foot for a pinched nerve. Signed up on the portal - really good and easy - all my records in one place. No need to call or come back in, keep them informed via the portal.
I also needed to go back and see my former rheumatologist. I was told initially it was a 3 month wait. I just did a tele Health call with her this morning.
On Monday I got a blood pressure number that needed to be addressed. I sent a message to cardiology via the portal on Monday and had 3 phone appointment phone calls since then. I need to just go to the doc in a box, get tested, get a ‘scrip, and wait for an appointment for primary care through VCU which could (at this time) take months. The 3rd call yesterday set up an appointment next Tuesday. Not downtown. 5 minutes from my house. Blood work for the gout will be done at this appointment.
Very impressive.
A few observations:
-Going to the first on-site appointment was like getting into a military base. Screening, testing, distancing etc.
- A real ❤️ breaking moment. A woman with her very autistic son at the check in. He simply can’t process wearing a mask. She said they could try but it probably wouldn’t work. I hadn’t thought of that. Lots of people who are REQUIRED to wear masks when they go back to work are going to have a lesser level of this problem.
- Everyone appears to “get it” but VCU setting the rules goes a long way in helping that.
Very very impressed by the whole operation. Seamless.
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