When a patient has a diagnostic procedure, particularly one performed in a hospital, the patient and his or her family will be understandably anxious to learn the results of that testing. Please do not make them wait any longer than absolutely necessary before you give them the information. In my opinion, that should be done as soon as you have the results. And if the results have not arrived - let them know that.
In the midst of all the hullabaloo around here from Hurricane Irene and the damage caused by the falling tree (which I'm sure you are tired of hearing), I had an ultrasound. It was four full days before I got the results, and only then after two phone messages to the office. When the nurse called, she said the doctor finally had time to read the results of the test. I submit that the doctor could have found some time to read the information sent by the hospital in a more timely manner. If it had been her family member, I'm sure she would have gotten the result out sooner.
It doesn't help when the patient has the symptoms of a major problem, or attendant aches and pains. It doesn't help when family members are hounding you to know whether you have received the report yet. And it certainly doesn't help when the patient is already drowning in stress from life in general. Doctors........it is a kindness to let your patients know something in a very timely manner.
Edit: I should have had sense enough to say that I am fine! The news was good, and I am grateful - I would have been much more grateful to have heard it sooner!!
Edit: I should have had sense enough to say that I am fine! The news was good, and I am grateful - I would have been much more grateful to have heard it sooner!!
