Who is the Patient?

WHO IS THE PATIENT?

I don’t like attending outpatients on my own any more. All that hanging around for hospital transport. Looking for someone to give assistance to go to the loo. Looking longingly at people passing by hugging their cups of steaming coffee.No, I’d rather go by bus with a P.A. if possible, that way I have control of what time I set off and roughly what time I’ll get home again.

I have just started to do this. with surprising results. Last time I attended outpatients the consultant was confused by being confronted by two people in the consulting room, one in a wheelchair, one standing, and didn’t know which one of us was the patient. My consultant decided to address his remarks to my P.A. He was instantly cut short. I said, "Will you speak to me please!

My P.A. realising what was happening discretely left the room. I was particularly pleased that there were also students observing all this. I hope that everyone in that consulting room learnt more about equality and respect for all. Next time I’ll leave my P.A. outside the room if not required, or instruct her to avoid any eye contact with the medical practitioner.
I see the funny side now, but at the time, I felt very angry.