One Dozen Things
Who Pays the Bills?
Scenario Script
A doctor is sitting across from a patient, who is sitting on an examination table wearing a gown.
Doctor: All right, Mr. Lopez, I want you to start taking these three medications [quickly writes three prescriptions]. It’s very important to get this filled right away and start taking them as soon as possible.
Patient: Uh….okay…
Doctor: I also want you to get an ultrasound of your abdomen. We need to get a better idea of what’s going on in your gallbladder. This can be done at our imaging center, just take this over there and they’ll schedule an appointment for you. [gives the patient another paper]
Patient: Is that really necessary?
Doctor: Well, we don’t want to miss anything so, yes, it’s necessary. Nothing but the best for our patients! [Stands up and shakes the patient’s hand] I will see you back in a month. We will send you an appointment. And if you have any other questions, the nurse will be right back in. [leaves the room]
[The patient sits there for a few moments looking worried; eventually, a nurse enters the room.]
Nurse: So, is everything OK? Do you have any questions or anything?
Patient: Yeah, I have a question…how am I gonna afford all this? I just lost my job, I got laid off, and I don’t have any insurance…What am I gonna do?
