I try to call every patient 48 hours in advance, but since this is a one-person staff office, I have to make sure I have all the testing the Doctor ordered in the chart. By checking that well in advance, it gives me the opportunity to get the documents I need before their next visit.
If they haven't had their labs/MRI/CT, etc. completed before the follow up, there's nothing to talk about, is there? By calling 48 hours in advance it makes it easier to reschedule them and fill the newly vacated spot. The personal call is typically appreciated. And since I'm the only person who works here with the Doc, most patients know exactly who I am when I call.
Regarding Boondoc's statement about sexism and racism, I COMPLETELY understand what he is saying. The doctor in this office is African American (and the most amazing person I have EVER worked for) and his previous secretary was a white, homosexual man with visible, violent/angry tattoos in a predominantly "old-world", elderly, conservative Italian neighborhood.
More than one person had been put off by my predecessor and people were leaving left and right. It's amazing what makes people tick...
