I am appalled at the ego of family physicians when it comes to my choice to use a midwife for pregnancy.
Currently in B.C., I must choose a midwife or a physician, not both, for my prenatal care and delivery. Because of my doctor's lack of concern with some problems I had at the beginning of my pregnancy, I chose to use a midwife. It's been a great choice so far because she is wonderful.
What is not so great is that my doctor has such a big head that he refuses to see me for any other medical issue, not related to my pregnancy, until after I have delivered the baby.
I called to make an appointment for another medical issue and I was told he would not see me until after delivery and that if I needed medical attention, that I would have to use the walk-in clinic. I can't take anything for colds and such, I am not risking coming out of there with something else.
The number one fundamental responsibility in the CMA Code of Ethics for physicians is "Consider first the well being of the patient". Currently his ego is in the way of that responsibility. The number two responsibility "Practise the profession of medicine in a manner that treats the patient with dignity and as a person worthy of respect".
I can't see you because I'm seeing a midwife -- how respectful is that?
Andrea Roy
Prince George
