Letter: It’s all about the approach

By Letter to the Editor on December 22, 2021.

Dear editor,

The past few weeks have come and gone with some personal adventures for us, but as things settle down, I want to address a few things that relate to local health-care professionals.

When I landed in emergency at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Nov. 10, around the time many folks were probably arriving at work, the medical team cautioned us that I may have had a stroke. Feeling better as the day wore on, we left mid-afternoon knowing full well there would be further tests.

Our experience at MHRH was comforting. From the young lady who admitted me, to the ER nurses, a young doctor and the staff who handled my CT scan – these people were all terrific!

Within a week, I underwent an MRI at MHRH. Again, a seamless, professional experience. Then soon afterward, an ultrasound and 24-hour heart monitor process co-ordinated by the South Alberta Medical Clinic. Kudos to the staff who efficiently walked us through these procedures.

Next up was a visit with local neurologist, Dr. Manosalva. This appointment was a most thorough and educational experience, a review of the test results and a couple of additional recommendations.

We are very appreciative. Very thankful. Tremendously fortunate.

However, there is something I’d like to address associated with our health-care system, based on our recent experience and also reflecting on my cancer treatment in Kelowna back in 2012.

My wife and I have resolved to always be respectful and attentive in dealing with health-care personnel, recognizing we are not the only people in the room on a given day. We advocate confidently, ask pointed questions and are fine with any amount of humour that might be interjected into these interactions. We understand the benefit of attending appointments together. For us, an extra pair of eyes and ears ensures nothing is overlooked. We are committed to a respectful approach.

That’s the key word in my opinion: approach. I certainly don’t think it’s a coincidence that we have enjoyed positive outcomes during these challenging times. I attribute it to our approach.

Why is the health-care system so often portrayed in front-page horror stories or through this modern-day penchant to orchestrate social media beatdowns? I think the “system” really is “people.” Isn’t it? As I approach 60 years of age, I find it interesting how easily so many seem to miss the point.

When somebody has what they believe to be a negative experience associated with our health-care system, it is all too often the system and medical professionals taken to task.

We never seem to hear about the antics of the ranting and raving drama queens or the belligerent tough guys of the world – the entitled “do you know who I am” types in our society. I’m confident these people are regularly making life miserable for clerks at the grocery store, restaurant servers, the gas station attendant, staff at airports and probably even school teachers who land in their crosshairs. And then, when someone pushes back after being mistreated, these bullies suddenly portray themselves as delicate flowers.

Maybe those among us who insist on constantly pointing the finger should take a long, hard look in the mirror. Ask yourself why others seldom seem interested in being co-operative with you. If you approach somebody like a jerk, you can pretty much count on being treated in much the same manner.

For me, I’m glad we’ve chosen an alternative approach. Hakuna Matata!

Clayton (Glen) Erickson

Medicine Hat

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