Top 5 amazing things from Oodle's opening
On 1/2/18 Oodle Family Medicine officially opened its doors! Here is an idea of how the week went:
1. Many, many hats
It was a thrill to do it all! I was the receptionist, the lab tech, the administrative assistant, the physician, the handyman and the cleaning crew. And I loved going to work every day!
2. All the time in the world
My patients had hour-long appointments to allow for extra time to find the new place, park, fill out paperwork. I had ample time to call specialists, explain everything, and address every concern my patients had that day.
And the very best part of it all?
Because of the relaxed environment, new doors opened on my patient's lives, and they shared so much more with me. Even better, I had the time and patience to really listen. There weren't anticipated knocks on the door to interrupt us. I didn't have three patients lined up waiting to be seen. I didn't have 1800+ patients to be responsible for each day while simultaneously seeing 20 patients in the office and covering for other doctors.
I got to actually spend time learning new things about my patients (some who I've been seeing for 5-6 years)! I heard about their losses, hobbies, passions, family, and experiences. (I even had time to meet a patient's 6-month-old puppy!)
3. Hitches
I am happy to say there were only a few very minor bumps. The new EMR is taking some time to get used to, as expected. The elevator fritzed out opening day. There were a few supplies I didn't realize I forgot to get until I needed them -- but nothing too critical. The week's flow was surprisingly smooth.
4. The Space (#TinyOodleOffice)
Who knew 160 square feet could feel so perfect? It never felt crowded. Everything was close, just an arm's reach away, so I could be very efficient. Parking wasn't as much of a hassle as I feared. Patients commented on the space and seemed to really dig it.
5. Everyone was happy!
From a patient email:
I enjoyed the visit very much. It was much different then previous M.D. visits. It was more like two people visiting with you also taking care of me.
Opening week, I can say with confidence, was a huge success! I'm ready for more! BRING IT!
