“I injured my back, can i see the doctor now?”, if this is your question, most probably the answer would be, “I am sorry, but we are full today!”
For me, this is one of the most bizarre differentiations between Malaysia and here.
Back in Malaysia, you can just walk into any clinics at any town, village, city, on any streets and you will never be rejected. Yes, you need to wait in queue, but no, you will never be rejected. I never give a damn thought about it before but now that i am here, i think it is a luxury being able to walk-in to a clinic.
Here, before you go to a doctor, you are supposed to call in and make an appointment. And do make sure you call in advance to have the bookings made. Walking in to a clinic without prior booking is like walking into the office without wearing pants!
And no, no, you are wrong, it is not free… you have to pay a small fortune to see a doctor.
The argument is pretty simple, if is an emergency and life threatening, you should go to the hospital, if is not, then you are fine and you could wait… like everyone.
So what should i do? It wasn’t life threatening to me, but i am still suffering.
“Is full?? Could you see if is possible to slot me in? I NEED to see a doctor today. I COULD NOT stand and I COULD NOT sit!!!!”. And, mamma mia, the reply was very soothing…
“Come at 11am. Thank you!”……. a one-liner, but nevertheless it calms me down!
see, some how, as strict as it is, they do have some place and slot for “emergency”…..
Now just to be fair, I must say that the service provided by the clinic is world class…. very professional and very informative!
When you are given medication, pills come with the original packaging and unlike in some places, the pills come in lose packaging like M&M’s.
Then the doctor explained to you about the medications, informed you about the compositions, and then the way you should take it.
Unlike some places, you get the pills and a brief instruction from a clerk or receptionist!
Now the fun part, you dont need to pay for it on the spot.
You tell your problem, you get your medications, and the Dr shakes your hand and bid you good bye!!!
Thats it…. Swiss efficiency and quality!
I must say that i like the idea… and also the trust given to the people!
The Dr normally send the bills only at the end of the month, or once after 3-4 months. And from there, you will have 30 days to pay for it.
They say it is the same for the dentist, for furniture or any other purchase.
I used to develop and make photo books from online.
Normally I get the developed, finished photo album delivered to my door, together with a bill and i have 30 days to pay for it.