After waiting an hour, I, a young adult, had an appointment with a doctor regarding the contraceptive implant. I had done my research but there hadn't seemed to be any government resources listing where I could have the full process done.
As a young adult, I expected to meet with a professional who had structured steps on what to do and how they could help me, as it wasn't an uncommon form of contraception at all.
I was two sentences in when the doctor said they weren't sure they were experienced enough with new technologies to put it in and went on about how a hospital would do it 'cheaper'. I never mentioned anything about price and personally I wouldn't mind paying a little extra for convenience.
Instead of asking questions and listening, the doctor faxed a local hospital making sure I am called in the next few days, despite my hesitation due to time. The doctor also didn't attach my mobile number on the fax (which is attached to my medicare number), but instead my parent's number. If I wanted my parent to control my sexual health, they would have been there.
The doctor finally gave me a prescription (instead of solely the referral) after I requested the second time. Consisting of personal comments and questions about my street address, and utterly irrelevant past infection of the doctor's, my study habits, weight gain and the doctor's experiences with chemists being 'cheap', this appointment took about 45 minutes for what I believe is a simple prescription. I feel no relevant questions I expected, such as; have I had regular periods or my families health history (as this contraceptive is associated with breast cancer) was asked.
I didn't want to seem rude so I didn't cut the doctor off, as I thought they were wrapping up on multiple occasions but I can see how many women my age, who are not as diligent and confident, could be pushed into, what felt like, a biased treatment or an inaccurate medical assessment.
Finally, after leaving and purchasing the product, both the doctor and the chemist told me I could have this particular contraception inserted within the practice. So I booked an appointment, waited another hour to see a doctor, just to be confronted with the fact they don't do that here. The receptionist tried to be helpful after seeing I was visibly upset, wasting my whole day and referred me to a local obstetrics gynecologist (OB/GYN).
I'm currently studying nursing and have been on contraceptives for a number of years now and in my opinion, never experienced such an unprofessional approach to a sensitive, yet necessary, topic for the vulnerable group I'm included in. I believed in the NSW Health System until today, but now I'm just thoroughly disappointed.
I feel if there were stronger protocols in place on how to approach these requests and questions, I genuinely believe my experience today and those of future women visiting would be improved drastically.
"Unprofessional approach to a sensitive, yet necessary, topic"
About: GPs in the North Sydney Electoral District GPs in the North Sydney Electoral District CHATSWOOD 2067
Posted by caelumzw43 (as ),
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