Antonia, I've had some "interesting" experiences with docs and staff and confidentialiality issue - and have found pretty much that the docs who treat their staffs the best, the staff in turn treat patients better (as in any job really)... if you see constant turnover in an office - its a sure sign something is really wrong... if you hear a lot of complaining - it usually starts at the top - happy employees are loyal but not usually nasty, instead they strive to do the most they can to help their doc out by getting info for them, etc... (I try to listen very carefully to staff when in the office and if its a new doc prior to even making an appt, ask what type of person the doc is - rushed, how much time will I get, etc.) (another good indicator of good doc and loyal staff - ask the staff how long they have been working for the doc - the longer the better - that means they are happy employees and a positive environment).


Everyone has a bad day occasionally of course - and need to follow policy - but if they are consistently rude - theres a reason.... there was no need to make a nasty remark to you - instead if it is policy to make a return visit - they should have said so.... also, I've had docs I've both communicated with by email and fax.... and others by phone - if they dont give their e's obviously they dont want to hear from you! (90% in my area do not) I've sent faxes - only to be told by docs to please call them instead - they dont have time to wade through paperwork - instead the office staff can ask them questions directly and either they or the doc call back..... (and they do follow through)..... As far as HIPAA - yes, it seems that sometimes it is up to open translation.... I cannot get copies in my area at all of any test results (of any kind) except from a doctor - not a test center.... on the other hand - I find sometimes docs are very loose with your personal health info and share it with those they should not - I now specify in my chart as a new patient the only people that my medical status may be discussed with. (of course docs do discuss patients with each other, inappropiratey or not - and we cant stop them on that)!