How did your doctor tell you?

[Tiarachael]

So, I had my echocardiogram today and I was told by the doctor to call her for the results once I was finished.  I called and left a message with her.  Well, she didn't call back until about 6pm and I was out so she called my cell and left a message.  She said to call her tomorrow.  If everything were normal, wouldn't she just say that in the message?  I'm not freaking out or anything, but just wondering.  Do doctor's want to deliver even the good news when they're on the phone with you, and not through voicemail, or is it more likely they want to talk to you when there is a real issue at hand?

[grendslori]

There are a lot of doctors who like to speak to their patients one on one. Especially if the patient tends to worry about things. (I'm not saying that you do, I'm just writing in general) That way they can answer any questions and put their patient's mind to rest.

[ireneo]

Because of HIPAA (privacy laws) I think they aren't allowed to leave messages here and there in case someone else happens to hear the news - good or bad. Perhaps a person's family doesn't know they're being checked for heart problems and that could set off some fireworks.

I also suspect that the doctor wants to talk to you directly to explain things clearly and answer any questions you have. And that takes more than a 30 second phone message.

I hope you get to talk to her today and put your mind at rest.