My child sliced their arm on coral while snorkelling in Kalbarri.
We promptly took them down to Kalbarri Health Centre on the recommendation by a fellow beachgoer.
Once we arrived we needed to ring the bell and explain what the issue was through a speaker. We were immediately brought through to the beds in their emergency department. We saw two nurses who were both very professional and kind. It was all very quick. They suspected a glue and a clean would be all that was needed, but given the doctor was nearby they were going to call them in to have a look first.
Within 10 mins the Doctor arrived and greeted my child with a happy smile. They then went to have a quick look at the notes and history the nurses had taken. The Doctor immediately noted my child is on medication for ADHD. Things went downhill from there for our experience at Kalbarri Health.
The Doctor announced loudly, in front of my child, that every kid is on ADHD medication these days.
The Doctor then asked where my child's other parents. I told them my partner was back at the accommodation with my other children to which the Doctor said that all the single mothers have their kids on medication so I wondered.
They also made multiple comments about how well behaved my child was being in what felt like an attempt to justify their, what I believe are, ignorant and problematic views.
My child was distressed after this interaction and was asking a lot of questions in the evening about the comments the Doctor made. I believe my child will be up against stereotypes their entire life, and now they are going to view health professionals in the category that causes pain.
As an adult with ADHD and a parent of two children with ADHD I am deeply offended and hurt by this interaction.
I feel like some serious training is in need.
"Doctor's ignorant and problematic views"
About: Kalbarri Health Centre / Emergency Department Kalbarri Health Centre Emergency Department Kalbarri 6536
Posted by pelicanzx95 (as ),
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