IVF Pet Peeves #1, #2 and #3
As I start my fifth round of IVF, I can't help but think about the process. Once I start thinking about the process I can't help but remember all the things that drive me nuts. I honestly think I could go into business by consulting fertility clinics. I know I'm not the first to say these things...but really?!?!
Pet Peeve #1 Why aren't fertility clinics completely digital??? With all of the advanced medical machines and techniques that they use for every other part of the process...why must my medical records be faxed? Who still uses a fax machine? I recently switched doctors and you would think that my medical file was the most difficult treasure to get your hands on and secure! I can't believe that they haven't taught admins how to scan files or even better yet - enter everything digitally from the start. How easy would that be, never mind the conservation of paper and trees. Also how nice would it be for those same records to be available at all times in your satellite offices? I'm sure some clinics have done this and are digital...the two I have worked with haven't figured it out yet...
Pet Peeve #2 Often times the whole IVF process is a personal matter. It is not something that you are broadcasting to the world. So, why must every receptionist, nurse, phlebotomist and ultra sound tech announce the reason of your visit as if your just won an award? A hushed tone would be much appreciated! One phlebotomist that I see is the nicest lady in the world, but I want to strangle her. She complains about the faxes she receives from my clinic (again...faxes!), she asks me how many cycles it has been and why its not working! Really...how about a little professionalism? I live in a small area and everyone knows everyone. I ran into a co-worker's wife during my last cycle and it was embarrassing for both of us. They took her in first and I heard everything. I felt bad for her and guilty for hearing it. I was also thankful her appointment was before mine! If you work in one of these offices, I beg you to have some compassion, discretion and empathy. Think about what you are saying, your volume and what the lady sitting in front of you is going through...never mind the hormones she's on!
Pet Peeve #3 Why do the clinics have baby and parenting magazines laying around everywhere? Isn't that a little much. I have enough of that in my everyday life...I don't want to be reminded of my lack of child or parenting when I am stressed before a procedure. It doesn't create hope, it just reminds me of my failure. These clinics should be sanctuaries. Dim the lights (why so bright?), make it cozy (not square so everyone is facing each other) and include reading materials that have nothing to do with the end product!
Wow now that I have started to write them down, more keep coming. Next time I will I promise to get past the waiting room! For now, time to get some rest. Good night...