I thought I would offer some comfort to some of the worriers here that have been concerned about getting pregnant and having to depend on the healthcare here, or those just afraid of having to go to the doctor here at all for whatever reason. I know, from reading some other threads, that some have not had such a pleasant experience with healthcare here. I think that must be in some areas where there is a bit more American prejudice, perhaps. I hope my experience will put a few fears to rest as I present the other side.
Last year, before I even got my visa and everything, I got sick while I was here and had to go to a walk-in clinic, but everything was fine and I was treated with a lot of respect and concern. I couldn't have asked for more; I was treated with quite a bit more kindness than I have experienced in times past from some healthcare providers in the States.
Now, as to yesterday's doctor's appointment: while it does seem to be a bit difficult to actually get an appt, once you do get one things go very smoothly - at least they did for us. My doctor - Dr Gorrim - was very nice - gentle, softspoken and friendly - and congratulated us on the pregnancy. He made sure that I was taking folic acid and not eating soft cheeses (not quite sure what's up with the soft cheese over here, but that's what the computer at work said, as well...so, I won't eat soft cheese). He told me that from now on I would see the midwife, unless he was needed for something - like blood tests (which I will be getting in a few weeks), but most of the time I will see the midwife. I am used to midwives, as medicaid uses them in Florida; they can be very nice. All in all, the whole appt took less than 5 minutes, in and out, and there was only a relatively short wait in the waiting room. Not an unpleasant experience. After I saw Dr Gorrim, we went to the reception desk where they booked me for my first appt with the midwife, booked my blood tests and the subsequent appt with Dr Gorrim. My husband asked if it was alright for him to go with me to the booking in appt (where we choose the hospital and see the midwife for the first time) and the receptionist said, with a big smile, "Yes, we greatly encourage and like to see the father's involvement." We left the surgery with smiles on our faces, and me feeling confident that these people really cared about me and my unborn child. The receptionist told me - when she had asked me who I wanted for my doctor and I said I'd like to continue seeing Dr Gorrim - that a lot of ladies like him because he is so nice and caring and gentle. I feel as though I am in good hands.
Just thought I'd share a good experience.
