The doctor will see you – briefly

The study I’m referring to — published in The Journal of General Internal Medicine — found interns now spend nearly half their days in front of a computer screen, more than they do with patients, since most documentation must be done electronically.

We can talk about the advantages of electronic medical records — and they definitely have some — but it can be a big detriment to actual care. Efficiency isn’t worth anything if it means harming doctor-patient care.

I know it’s not all doctors’ fault: The new generation of docs has more constraints than ever — including duty hour limits and electronic medical record-keeping.

Then of course we can factor in the doctor shortage — exacerbated by 30 million new patients generated by Obamacare.

With obesity and other preventable disease rates rising, it’s more important than ever to have a relationship with a physician. And with extremely high medical costs, lifestyle choices — and actual conversations with a medical professional about it — are essential.

It’s a worrisome trend, and one I’ve experienced all too often. Instead of a meaningful visit, she’s told me to just come back a week later, and two weeks later, etc. when my symptoms remain. It’s a waste of co-pays, time and trust in a relationship I actually, at least used to, really value.

There’s also, of course, the possibility that I just desperately need to find a new doctor’s office.

See also:

• On the Third Hand: Paying the Doctor
• Waiting for Health Care (New York Times)