Posted by Viridis on April 3, 2003, at 0:43:09
In reply to Procuring Professional Services » cybercafe, posted by fachad on April 3, 2003, at 0:14:40
That's a very good point: you're paying for a service, and if the service isn't adequate, you should have some recourse (and be able to seek a better service provider).
In any profession, the majority of "professionals" aren't great, and some are actually incompetent. This has certainly been my experience with mechanics, repair-people, general practitioners, and pdocs; I think it's just a consequence of human nature. When you're dealing with your mental health, it's crucial that you find someone you can trust and work with. And, the fact is, they're working for you, so if they don't do their job, you should move on.
I'm not suggesting that people be rude or overly demanding of their doctors, but it's a mistake to be intimidated by them either. They're there to serve you, and if they don't do so adequately, then move on. This is especially hard when you're depressed, anxious, etc., but if your condition isn't being treated appropriately, there are options. So many people here seem to feel trapped and subject to their doctors' whims, and this is just wrong.
Doctors (including psychiatrists) are paid for their services, and if they aren't doing their jobs, there are usually others who would be delighted to have you as a client, and would serve you much better.
poster:Viridis
thread:215329
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030402/msgs/215668.html