You Get The Shot When I'M Ready!

by Sandy C.

What used to be simple has turned complex.

As recently as fifteen years ago our small town clinic had a yearly flu vaccine gala - pay your five bucks, get a shot and leave.

Here's the report of one person's (a former employee and still great friend) 2003 experience:

"Forgot to tell you about my flu shot experience - another example of mismanagement if I do say so. Remember how we used to give several hundred on a Saturday morning?

"Well, the first time I called in mid-October, they hadn't ordered any vaccine yet. Second time, I was told to come in Tuesday between 9 and 10 AM. Remembering how things were in our office, I thought I would give them a break, and showed up at 9:30 - Wrong choice!

"They were 'all out' of the vaccine by that time, so I made an appointment for next Tuesday at 9. Got there a few minutes before nine (I'll show 'em!), signed in and sat down. There were three other people in the waiting room. At 9:40 I was called back and watched while the nurse drew up the vaccine (no, they didn't have the pre-filled syringes) and ultimately gave me the injection.

"Turns out, they only order 2 10cc bottles a week! And - and - they charge non-Medicarers $20! How's that for a ----- session? You will be pleased to know that I conducted myself well, and smiled at everyone."

(Yo'Doc comment on follow-up: Will all of you who really like this change in the way of doing medical business, please say "Aye"? Hmm. Very quiet.)