A Pathological Need To Be Cautious
AUSTRALIA, CURRENT EVENTS, HEALTH & BODY, MEDICAL OFFICE, NEW SOUTH WALES | HEALTHY | JULY 30, 2020
I finally have an in-person appointment with a psychologist after having several phone appointments during the global health crisis. The secretary calls me the day before to do what is now the usual health check.
Secretary: “Hello, [My Name], is now a good time to ask you a few questions before your appointment tomorrow with [Psychologist]?”
Me: “Yes, absolutely.”
Secretary: “Oh, great. Have you had any coughs, fevers, sore throat, or body aches and pains?”
Me: “No, to the cough, fever, and sore throat, but the body aches and pains are common with my fibromyalgia.”
Secretary: “That should be fine. Have you been overseas or in Victoria in the last fourteen days?”
Me: “No.”
Secretary: “Okay, and have you been in contact with anyone who could have [spreading illness] recently?”
Me: “I work in a pathology lab.”
Secretary: “Oh. Um… I don’t know what to say to that.”
She laughs awkwardly.
Me: “I was tested a week ago and I was clear. But I also appreciate it if you don’t want me in the building; I can have a phone appointment again.”
Secretary: “Um, do you mind if I go and ask?”
Me: “Go for it. Just call me back. This isn’t the first time I have flustered people.”
Secretary: “Thank you for being so understanding! I will call you back soon.”
Me: “All good.”
They are going to let me in.
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