BMJ 2001;323:362 ( 18 August )

Filler

Memorable patients

Those who sit and wait

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

We have been fortunate as a family to have had little need for healthcare services in recent years. A few months ago, however, two members of the family were unwell within days of each other, and their differing experiences made me reflect that we have some way to go to achieve equity in the delivery of health care.

Lynne, my wife, had a persistent productive cough, fever, and malaise. On arrival at the surgery, a receptionist confirmed her appointment and pointed to the adjacent waiting room. The buzz of conversation within centred on the fuzzy summons that would occasionally crackle from the intercom. The younger patients were intermittently able to catch the names broadcast and could enlighten those who were anxious and perplexed. The atmosphere of uncertainty was heightened as, at intervals, frustrated patients sighed and returned to the lobby to seek assurance from the receptionist that they had not . . . [Full text of this article]
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Rapid Responses:

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The respect of society
Ted Oplotny
bmj.com, 24 Aug 2001 [Full text]
Those who sit and wait may also pay!
David Gill, et al.
bmj.com, 24 Aug 2001 [Full text]
Yes, but..........
Tim Heywood
bmj.com, 31 Aug 2001 [Full text]
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