In 2002 I advocated for geriatric care consulting in physician practice waiting rooms. Though there was interest from one practice in Gainesville GA, physician staffing berthed the concept to the back burner. Before the plethora of cell phones we have today I envisioned patients and caregivers having access to phones where they could resolve issues during their long wait. Having a geriatric care consultant or social worker in the waiting room could relieve anxieties as people shared their social concerns.
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What if a caregiver could discuss a transportation issue or be able to inquire about a resource to lessen his/her burden(s)? What if elders looking after each other could have a smile or be directed for funding to remodel their home so they could age in place? What if the environment in a physician's practice was friendlier and encouraged storytelling in a corner? Yes, away with those wide screens and listen. Patients have so much to share, wisdom, character, and strength. Many with family scattered around the country or globe would benefit from socialization, lessen health concerns, thwart disease.
The People's Pharmacy recently conducted research on drugs with more side effects than benefits. Conversation and listening are more beneficial to one's health than prescription drugs. What is your best waiting room experience? What if, in an hour or two wait, a trained professional could help you write or edit an oral or written legacy to your children?
