Should I find a new Rheumy? I’m torn. Please help.

I absolutely love my Rheumy, but I am being forced to find a new Rheumy due to the horrible office staff. The staff is rude, unprofessional and incompetent at their job. They truly give me the blues and I end up stressed after dealing with them. I spoke with my Rheumy about it twice and nothing changed. Unfortunately, he’s not responsible for the office staff, he’s practicing as an independent, I guess. Not really sure how it works, but his hands are tied. He was so very apologetic and disappointed by the behavior of the staff, but there is nothing he can do. I have been with my Rheumy since I was diagnosed 4 years ago and I hate to leave him. I actually cried when I told him I was leaving. Now I am beginning to wonder if I made the right decision. I just can’t deal with the lack of service from the office. They truly stress me out. Have you experienced a similar situation and if so, how did you handle it?

[Melba1]

Yes! My rheumy’s secretary is terrible! She wasn’t passing on important messages, getting them muddled up and sometimes taking weeks to respond to important questions or not respond at all or respond rudely and impatiently with the ‘unlucky this is the NHS you know’! (This was when I rang to speak to rheumy because I was having a serious reaction to a medication! 🙄). I didn’t know if this was his attitude or hers but I then was in hospital and he told me she kept doing it to patients. He then gave me his email so I could bypass her and what a difference! He responds very quickly (within an hour usually) and gives advice or just gets me into clinic quickly if there’s a problem. We also bypass the receptionists (who are nice but busy) as he books my next appointment himself.

Can you get your rheumy’s email? Bypass the other staff?

It would be a shame to lose a rheumy you really like as they’re so important to us

X

[Mean-time]

Yes, I have and really haven’t regretted it. An office staff sets the pace for a stress free and trusting visit. I’d change if I were you. I find that learning the names of front desk people and if necessary, killing them with kindness and concern has worked wonders. I try to envision their demeanor also, as dealing with the public can be a hassle. Praying you’ll find a perfect fit soon.

[LupieMani]

Mine's the opposite. Two ***** Rheumies, great staff. I wouldn't give up a great rheumy for the staff unless I was guaranteed another Rheumy who is just as good.

I find two approaches have worked in the past. Greet them with a smile, or leave an honest review. Negative reviews force the service/office manager to look at what they are doing wrong, and try to avoid complaints by improving their service.