We all wear many hats at the same time. (At least I do with my bald head.)
Is it the name we are called or is the posessiveness of what the name
implies.
When I work for/with the individual and they are seaking my professional
advice/service then the medical/insurance world dictates that the
individual is a patient. When that individual is able or willing to direct
their care and are “more in charge” then they become a client. And when
they pay thier bill they become the consumer/customer.
The person has not changed. And neither should how they a treated! But we
all slip in how or what we say. “My prosthetist; your doctor; our patient;
my kids with CP; etc.” It is not done to be disrespectful. As long as you
treat person with the individual respect that they are intitled to, that’s
what matters.
We all need to stop thinking posessive and start thinking in a cooperative
mode!
Terry Supan, CPO
Associate Professor
Director, Orthotic Prosthetic Services
SIU School of Medicine
Orthotic Prosthetic Services, LL0300
PO Box 19652
Springfield, IL., USA, 62794-9652
phone: (217) 782-5682
fax: (217) 782-7323
E-mail:
