Actually, for this visit, I am going to a satellite location
not far from where I live. In many ways, the time I have been going to that location
reflects a change in how that clinic treats transgender patients. When I first
started to go there years ago, I was met with a very chilly reception. Even to
the point of being ignored by one rude receptionist and one temporary doctor
who I had a virtual (online) visit with. He rudely said “what’s wrong with you”
after he saw me. Obviously, not the reception I was looking forward to.
Happily, that was the last time I had to deal with him and
the next time I went, I was greeted by a new pleasant, female primary provider (which I
think is similar to a general practitioner in the civilian world.) The best
part was, she had some sort of working knowledge of what it meant to have a
transgender patient. So, I did not have to educate her.
Providers turn over quickly at the VA, so I hope she is
still there when I go this morning because I have several important personal
health care issues to discuss. Such as getting a mammogram, settling up an eye
care appointment, and most pleasant of all…is it time for a colonoscopy. I am
getting a flu shot this morning, but due to the interference by our “dear
leader”, so far Covid shots are not available. To people of any age. Which is
important to me because I spent three days in a hospital last winter with
Covid. My wife Liz and I are going on vacation about the same time as last year
in January and I would really like the added protection of a vaccine before
that time rolls around.
For my visit, I always try to dress light casual for my VA
appointments. It is also important to wear short sleeves in case she wants
blood work done. It has been a year, so I imagine she will want it done today.
I am lucky that I have never had any problems giving
blood to the “vampires”.
One way, or another, I always hope I am treated with respect
which I have been on my recent VA visits.
If anything, else happens, I will let you know because I
know, health care varies radically between the VA medical centers. Especially
with the mandated cutbacks led by you know who. Whose motto is “If it ain’t
broke, break it.”
