Frank, perfect response.

We do the same. I really love it when people don't want to give their SSN. I have heard them say "I don't want the government to get it." Really.

Some years ago as was mentioned above there was this huge flap about SSN's. On the FAA pilot's medical form there is a spot for it. When pilots refused to give it, the FAA said "Fine. You don't have to. We will give you a 9 digit pseudo-SSN that you will have to use on all future correspondence and applications. Don't misplace it, or we won't issue any further certificates." That solved the problem.

Like Wayne, when we meet a patient it is with my expectation that it is sort of a bilateral interview. I want to know what the patient's expectations for care may be, and want him/her to know how I practice medicine. Usually it fits fine or we can accommodate each other's styles. Sometimes not, and we agree it is a bad fit. I charge for the visit.

Unless you are really hungry, life is too short to let these idiots into your practice.


David Grauman MD
Department of Medicine
Commonwealth Health Center
Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands