However, this care chain does not always work to the patient’s advantage; efficiency is often the starting point. But that doesn’t mean it’s effective. Baden tries to explain it with a devised scenario of a smooth but also unnecessarily long process. “Suppose you stub your toe and it turns so blue that you decide to call the doctor. The assistant listens to your story and lets you come in for a check. The doctor refers you to radiology, because that toe could be broken.” With the photos you go to the emergency room where you are advised to walk in a sturdy shoe for three weeks. As a patient you then have already spoken to several people before you have an answer and you are still in pain. While the doctor’s assistant, someone who knows and trusts you and can approach you afterwards, could have already given this advice.”
Hospitals struggle to always have an experienced doctor in the emergency room
