I feel offended, hurt and embarrassed by a medical specialist and his admin assistant recently. This is the second time I saw them looking at each other and chuckling as if there is inside jokes about me or my body parts/the way I walk. I hate such encounter so much that I wish I can either escape or give him a piece of my mind and stop getting medical help. I feel hurt and inferior by doctor’s rude humour, especially I have gained a lot of weight recently. . At times doctor shows TLC towards me but how do I cope when they joke about me again? If you were I, would you give him a piece of your mind and face the consequences like awkwardness and offended behaviour coming from them? Thank you for your listening ear!
Hey @Citronella ,
That does sound rather uncomfortable and certainly unprofessional of the healthcare staff. I’m so sorry that you had to experience this. Personally, I would go up to them and share how their actions were unprofessional and unhelpful to the medical care that they were supposed to be providing me.
I hope this helps!
I thought nurses were talking about me when i was paranoid. Sometimes its not about u n they were maybe just talking normal colleagues chat. Let them know that u feel like they r laughing at u bah
Hi @Citronella
Thank you for courageously seeking help in this situation. I agree that feeling of hurt and being embarrassed by a medical specialist and their staff can be a deeply distressing experience. It’s understandable that you would want to address this situation, especially if it has occurred at least twice.
While humor can sometimes help in medical settings, it can also be inappropriate or hurtful. Many healthcare professionals use humor as a coping mechanism, but it should never come at the expense of a patient’s dignity or feelings.
Please know that its valid to feel hurt and inferior when subjected to jokes about your body or appearance, especially during sensitive medical consultations. Weight gain is often a complex issue influenced by many factors, including health conditions, and should be approached with sensitivity and care.
Here are some strategies for your consideration:
Communicate Your Feelings: If you feel comfortable, consider addressing the behavior directly with the doctor or their assistant. You might say something like, “I noticed some comments that made me uncomfortable during my last visit. I would appreciate a more respectful approach.” This can help establish boundaries and may lead to a more positive interaction in the future.
Seek Support: Bringing a friend or family member to your appointments can provide emotional support and may help you feel more empowered to address any inappropriate behavior. They can also help advocate for you if needed.
Consider Changing Providers: If these encounters continue to affect your well-being, it may be worth exploring other healthcare options where you feel more respected and supported. A good patient-provider relationship is crucial for effective care.
Focus on Self-Care: Engage in activities that boost your self-esteem and mental health outside of medical visits. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who affirm your worth beyond physical appearance.
Deciding whether to confront the doctor would depend on your comfort level and the potential for positive change. Speaking up could lead to awkwardness but might also prompt greater awareness from the medical staff about their behavior. If you choose not to confront them directly, documenting your experiences and considering a formal complaint might be another avenue to explore.
Ultimately, prioritize your mental health and well-being in these interactions. You deserve to receive medical care in an environment that is respectful and supportive. 