To the Editor:

If you are over 65 (and maybe even younger) you will remember a wonderful phenomenon of the good old days. And what was this marvel? The doctor who made house calls!

What a source of comfort he was. As a child, I remember he would examine me, and then sit on the bed holding my hand and uttering soothing words. I bet many of you remember his cheerful bedside manner and the touch of his cool hand on your forehead.

Not every illness or injury is serious enough to warrant being in a hospital. But some are too serious for the poor patient to have to manage to drive to a doctor’s office (particularly in bad weather) and sit in a waiting room for half an hour. 

But what has happened? Now, everything is “call 911” or ”go to Urgent Care.” But a house call? Never!  

Now, 911 is important and can save lives. Urgent Care is a good alternative from having to rush to a hospital. But, they are impersonal. And that’s the key word to describe medicine today.

Which brings an idea to mind. Are there three or four family doctors in Haywood County who would be willing to form a small consortium of “Docs who would make house calls?” Think about it. These few doctors could share patient information and take turns in making house calls. These calls would be made among their own patients, not necessarily the whole county at large. It might inspire other consortiums to be formed.

Not only would it provide a good income for the medical men involved, but would inspire great gratitude and comfort in the hearts of their patients.

And maybe bring back a little of the compassion of the good old days.

My husband and I would immediately become patients of any doctor who was part of this. Wouldn’t you?

JoAnna and Richard Swanson

Waynesville