The Scale of Shame Is Ready for You

I recently went to the doctor for my yearly Medicare Wellness visit. First, the good news: my PSA is a wonderfully low 0.13. My prostate and I are apparently still on speaking terms.

When I walked in, I noticed a board displaying every provider’s name and whether they were on time or running behind.

What a fantastic concept!

Every medical office should do this. Before I even sit down, I know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Is the doctor running behind? Great—I’ll take out my phone and watch another episode of Stranger Things. Is the doctor on time? Then I’d better prepare to be called immediately and step onto the dreaded Scale of Shame.

This simple board puts the patient—or customer—first. It respects my time and gives me useful information, which should always be the goal.

Here’s the best part: once I was seen, I never felt rushed. No one minimized my questions, hurried me toward the exit, or made me feel like they were racing to hit a metric or service-level target. The providers gave me the time and attention I needed while still keeping patients informed about the schedule.

Apparently, healthcare really can provide transparency without sacrificing personal care.

I can have my cake and eat it too—although, depending on what the Scale of Shame says, perhaps only a small slice.

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