this was my doc...
front desk help (she was wearing jeans under that labcoat)
waiting room
Getting sick while out of the country is never fun. Especially when in a program as fast-paced as this one.
Assumptions: I thought that health care in the east had its problems. I experienced the health care system in Europe and found it frightening. But I had more expectations for the Japanese system. My assumptions stemmed from the idea that in a culture so technologically advanced, so cutting-edge, the system would be comparable to ours, if not more advanced.
Being from a family of health care providers and seeing the insane hours they put in (weekends, holidays, on-call) I was again surprised that Tokyo, one of if not the largest city in Japan had so little options. I was taken to a clinic
, up a flight of stairs, out of sight from the street into a small room that served as the waiting room, front desk and office all in one.
The place for lack of tactful explanation, was run-down but played soothing music--the receptionist wore jeans under her labcoat. Keeping up appearances?
This doctor had 1 small room sectioned off with a sheet. It was in complete disarray. He sat at his desk (see photo), asked my translator (Yiga)a few questions and made a prognosis. He used archaic utensils--a mental spoonlike device to show me that my glands were indeed swollen, another device with water and vinegar was used to measure the amount of phlegm accumulating in the back of my throat.
His approach and recommendation was very holistic. He was not a fan of anti-biotics as my stomach would not tolerate them well.
However, he did prescribe 4 different pills and some gargle, which was unnecessary as far as I was concerned.
In the time I was there, he saw 5 other patients. There was very little waiting.
So, what did I learn?
I learned that appearances are not everything. This doctor was able to tell me my ailments through touch. I understand his only means for making any money is through prescribing meds, but I feel that in the states doctors pamper patients...Perhaps due to the amount of money they make?
I didn't get a chance tos the entire bill, but I believe the visit was about 3600 yen. The medications, however, brought the cost way up...The entire visit including taxi equaled around $80.
This back home would be about the same price as just a doctor visit where you would sit in a waiting room, get your blood pressure checked, temperature, height and weight while watching CNN in your room.
I prefer the holistic approach method used by the doctor. He was genuine and quick.
June 20, 2004 journal entry
A New Concept: Dr.'s office on a Sunday in Japan. Hospitals are not open on Sundays. I was told often times people drive around the hospital waiting for a parking space and often die waiting. Literally! So much for Promptcare. I think Bloomington would go into shock if there wasn't emergency care 24-7. Guess that is one way to control the population?
