If you’ve done any of the things on this list, doctors just may think you’re rude…
Going to the doctors office is rarely an enjoyable experience.
But the vibes get significantly worse when manners go out the window.
Smith, the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting.
Give the illusion of privacy, even if none exists.
Dont probe into the reason for your fellow patients visit during small talk either.
Chat about the weather or a television show.
Do not ask why they are seeking medical help.
If, and only if, they volunteer that information, then you may ask follow-up questions.
Making Noise In The Waiting Area
Refrain from loudly talking about yourself to strangers.
Dont ramble on and on about your medical issues to another patient, Vernon-Thompson said.
Sit quietly and focus on you until your name is called.
The same goes for issues directed at staff members.
If you have a complaint, take it up to the counter rather than complaining to fellow patients.
Talking On Your Phone
The noise rule applies to phone conversations as well.
If you have to take a call, its considerate to step outside the waiting room.
Consider going into airplane mode before you enter the medical facility.
At the very least, turn the sound off.
This is for your protection and to help protect anyone who may be medically vulnerable.
Otherwise, put on a mask before you check in.
Some offices require it for all patients.
Eating A Meal While You Wait
Dont eat in the waiting area, Claytor said.
The waiting area is not a fast-food restaurant.
It is inappropriate to consume a meal while you wait.
Be sure to properly dispose of whats left as well.
Take your trash with you, Leighton said.
Dont leave your empty coffee cup laying around the waiting room.
Showing Up Late Or Not At All
Arrive on time, Claytor urged.
Being punctual is a nice courtesy to other patients, the staff and the doctors.
In fact, you should strive to arrive ahead of your scheduled appointment time.
Your punctuality helps the doctor remain on schedule and reduce delays for other patients.
And if you cant make it that day, dont forget to cancel or reschedule.
Dont be a no-show, Claytor said.
Do notify the office if you cant keep your appointment.
Perhaps there is a wait list and someone else could use your time slot.
Do not shout at the staff or argue with them, Vernon-Thompson said.
Dont make a scene!
If you have a complaint, there are protocols in place for that.
In most cases, the issue you have is out of their control or not their fault.
Being friendly and courteous goes a long way in a medical setting.
Your positive and respectful attitude can make the environment more conducive to healing.
Ignoring Boundaries
Respect personal space, Claytor said.
For sanitary reasons and to avoid the spread of germs, it is important to follow social-distancing guidelines.
If there are plenty of empty chairs available, dont choose one right next to someone.
If its crowded, dont take up more than one seat.
Be thoughtful and dont commandeer more than one waiting room chair, Claytor said.
She warned against putting your feet up on the seats.
Your footwear is dirty and doesnt belong on the waiting room seats, Claytor said.
Its impossible to know what nasty substances your shoes have picked up.
No one wants the dirt from the streets transferred to their clothing.
Arriving Unprepared
Avoid going over your allotted appointment time by preparing in advance.
Show up with your insurance card and any necessary forms ready to go.
It can be overwhelming and occasionally rushed during the appointment.
Having your questions written in advance allows you to cover as much as possible during the time allotted.
Arrive with a list of all the medications and supplements you take as well.
Assist the doctors in maximizing your visit by doing a little advanced preparation, Claytor said.
Being Dishonest
Be honest with your provider, Gottsman said.
