Gift for surgeon?

Sorry to hear about your skin cancer -- I had a basal cell carcinoma removed just about a year ago.  And both my dermatologist and his wife who performed the Mohs surgery were fantastic.

I think I would feel a little uncomfortable giving something to a professional person.  I think the AMA is leery of gifts from patients as it may compromise the doctor/patient relationship.  I think a card with note would be fine but I wouldn't do anything personal like a tie.  I think there's a difference between giving a box of chocolates to the nurses on a ward and giving something to a physician.

I don't feel uncomfortable at all, but I don't want to make him uncomfortable. I see him on Monday and still haven't decided - besides the card and note - if I'm going to do anything else.

I also thought about a good pen. Would that fall under the too personal category?

I understand about the AMA. (I am in England, though.)

In other news: I was given the all-clear by letter a few days ago, so I am thrilled about that!

Hmmm -- maybe a pen would be OK as it's something to use in his professional capacity so not "personal".

I know you are talking about a UK doctor.  I believe there was some kind of directive a few years back warning GPs against accepting Christmas gifts from patients because of accusations of bribery!  I know that's not your situation but you can see where it might be a little touchy.

I think there's a difference between giving a box of chocolates to the nurses on a ward and giving something to a physician.

Agreed. Why not ask him if the hospital is fund raising for more equipment and give a donation to that?

Hello, I think I can help here completely...

Firstly let me say I hope you are on the mend, good luck with your health.

I worked for a surgeon - actually two different surgeons in Stoke Mandeville Hospital and John Radcliffe.

A little gift can be accepted and is appreciated.  It is rare though.  Often nurses are given chocolates or wine.  The doctors and surgeons often get left out. 

I would suggest something like a really nice bottle of wine.  I think a tie is a bit too personal.

Stick with a food or drink gift, much more casual, always well received.  And yes they can accept alcohol.

I hope this helps, and wish you a speedy recovery.

Thank you everybody. The deed has been done as my appointment was this morning.

I must stress that throughout my appointments, I saw different nurses each time, and only for a couple minutes each. Nobody in particular took care of me. After the 2nd surgery, I was left in recovery to bleed all over myself despite asking for a tissue 3x. Four different nurses asked me if I wanted a cup of tea and a biscuit (I replied yes every time) yet no one brought me anything. Even so, I brought two large boxes - one of chocolates and one of good biscuits to them.

The surgeon got a Waterman pen. He seemed very appreciative.

I also told him that despite the fact that he is very cute, I am very happy I'll never see him again (hopefully!)  He got a big laugh out of that.

Thanks again, everyone.

Great to hear, Fallgal. Glad you're better and thanks for sharing your experience.

I also told him that despite the fact that he is very cute, I am very happy I'll never see him again (hopefully!)  He got a big laugh out of that.

Haha! 

Glad all went well Fallgal

Thank you Babs, Eatoomey and Stephanie.