One for fellow dentist/medics - Not patients!

[pauldavies85]

Am I the only medical professional completely fed up with the general public?? I regard myself as a very thoughtful caring dentist who goes well beyond the call of duty. I do work in the NHS and I know to an extent this is all path of the course. I do receive a lot of compliments/presents/recommendations from others but it fails to keep me motivated when I come under such scrutiny (and outright disrespect) from some of my patients.
The blame appears to be solely on me and people have no concept that they have possibly done anything wrong (classic - obese guy who was 'allowed' to get diabetes?! or the smoker who blames you for stained teeth and aggressive perio. disease?!)

I'm ranting today as I have had a severe run in with an individual who I haven't actually done anything too (I mean haven't even treated at all! - new pt) following a ref. to a specialist at his request. Long story short is I'm quite certain I will have a legal matter on my hands which I know will go nowhere, but feel quite upset and really don't want the stress.

I know you can't win them all but I'm sick of being considered a very convenient escape goat. I know others will understand that even one complaint out of 1000 happy ones knocks you for 6!

It has made me quite down about my job and I certainly don't particularly enjoy it. Is this something everyone experiences from time to time?
I always wished I had become a vet instead, but never more so than now - at least animals appreciate help and realise they are mentally challenged.

[pauldavies85]

strangely have actually had quite good week, lots of my favourite pts, interesting mixed bag of work etcetc..
For a few second my hero-dontics of 10 fillings for a single band two felt good as I like the guy!

I wonder if they will ever understand that if they are nice to us we are nicer back?!!