We Are Better Than This

August 13, 2001, a small building collapsed, and I was pinned under it. An Edinburg neighbor called the rescue squad, and one of them crawled into the wreckage to get me out. Taken to the Woodstock Hospital ER a doctor took care of me by gently explaining that my back was broken, and that I needed to go to Fairfax or UVa for more care. He told me that, because of the thunderstorms, I would be transported by ambulance, not helicopter, which he preferred. The two drivers apologized for the road bumps that caused me pain during the long ride to Fairfax, and weeks later I received many cards from several of those involved in my rescue. Some were volunteers and some professionals, but all of them “did what had to be done” to help a stranger.

I share that story because it shows what the Valley is capable of—“doing what must be done.” Yet last Friday in the newer, larger Woodstock ER I witnessed less care than I received 25 years ago.

My 86-year-old friend called and told me that his neck hurt, and he wanted me to take him to the ER. He refused to call 911, so I did what he asked. At the ER, the intake person was thorough. After a brief wait he was moved to room 5 where a great RN and her aide settled him on the bed, preparing him to be examined. After he was connected to the machines, the fine RN drew blood, then the doctor stepped two or three strides into Room 5, introduced himself, and asked my friend to describe his pain, which he did. The doctor never approached the bed but exited after my friend explained his stiff neck and body pain.

We waited for the blood test results. After about ninety minutes of no response, I found the RN, and she located the doctor, who eventually entered as he had before—about two strides into the room. I explained to the doctor that my elderly friend lived alone and asked if he would be admitted. He said that he had prescribed pain medication (Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen and Naloxone Hydrochloride in case of an overdose). He left the room without any more explanation.

Over two hours after arriving, the competent RN and aide prepared my friend for discharge. His thirteen-page printout stated the reason for his visit was “Arm injury” with a diagnosis of “Cellulitis of right upper arm extremity” and “Cat scratch.”

This contrasts sharply with my 2001 experience, when I was thoroughly examined, listened to, and given excellent care. Thank goodness for the skilled RN and aide, but the MD did not even give my friend a diagnosis; it seems he had just copied from my friend’s previous visit for cellulitis and infection. Worse, perhaps, is that he never cared enough to stand next to an elderly patient and hear his worries and pain.

We are better than this.

Roger Barbee
Woodstock, VA

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