Surprising Hospital Experience

In spite of having been diagnosed with a rare and progressive neurological disease 15 years ago, I have always prided myself in being able to take care of my own health concerns. As a pastor, I have visited patients in many hospitals in Kansas, Ohio, Wisconsin and Indiana. I have heard many horror stories. So, I have been afraid of what might happen to me if I was a patient.

Then, a few weeks ago, I suddenly became very ill. My wife called 911. My first surprise came when I tried to tell the EMT’s about my disease as well as my immediate emergency. All four of them sat down and listened to me before doing anything. One of them took copious notes. Then they carried me out to the ambulance on a stretcher and started the IV. As they turned on the siren, I heard them radio ahead to the emergency room. I was relieved when I overheard them describing not only the symptoms of my immediate medical crisis, but also the nature of my disease and my related disabilities.

Two things surprised me about my experience in the emergency room. First, I was promptly attended to. It was also reassuring to know that I could refuse treatments and procedures and have my wishes and decisions respected.

After spending the night in intensive care, I was taken to surgery early in the morning. With the help of an upper GI scope the surgeon found a tear in my esophagus and to my relief it was successfully repaired.

I was transferred to a room on the sixth floor. Again I was surprised. The nurses responded promptly when I used the "call button". They were cheerful and friendly, helpful and respectful when I needed special assistance due to my disabilities. I was also surprised to find that the dietary menu offered a wide variety of choices. I was able to order my food at odd times, and it was delivered to my room within 45 minutes. It did not taste like my wife's excellent home cooking, but it tasted pretty good. And, whenever any staff person came into my room they always asked "Is there anything else I can do for you?". I was offered ice cream, hot tea, and hot coffee which was prepared by the staff right there on the floor. When I was chilled they brought hot blankets repeatedly.

I have often heard it said by administration officials that Reid Hospital is new and different - a "patient centered service provider". I was pleasantly surprised that the hospital and all their staff lived up to their word. I may change my mind when I receive the bill for the services rendered, but for now I hold Reid Hospital, its administrators, the EMT's, doctors, nurses, assistants and volunteers in positive regard.

Dr. Greene is an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ and a resident of Richmond, IN. He is also the author of Benjamin's Dog Joseph, Feeling Better: The Wisdom of the Doc, You Can Feel Better: How to cope with chronic pain and physical disabilities, and co-author of Walking Free: the Nellie Zimmerman Story.

For further information about his books, please visit www.densmorereid.com

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