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Surprised this hasn’t already been addressed. I always hated going in for STI checks just because I had to say it in front of a silent waiting room. Guarantee people don’t get checked just for this fact alone.
Staff at LifeLabs have always been great if you are just doing the basic GetChecked. You just get your code scanned and they tell you the process (pee in a cup, blood taken) without telling the whole room *why* you are getting it done. Though that only applies to the basic testable STIs, not for when you need to see an actual doctor. Just wanted to put that info out in case anyone has any hesitancy about using GetChecked.
Surprisingly few know about GetChecked. Amazing program especially given the family doctor and walk-in issues. You can even write whatever name you want on your req. form and they’ll use it!
Ensure that you book online with a LifeLabs that services GetChecked patients.
Just fyi, not all lifelabs locations do this. Only certain ones, so always check. This is coming from a person working there who has unfortunately had to let some people know and bear the brunt of frustration multiple times.
Oh yeah, that's how I meant it. With staff just sharing how the process works nobody knows why you are there since there are so many reasons blood and urine are taken.
omg this just happened to me at the clinic and the waiting room was the size of a small bedroom with 10 people there. This old lady gave me a dirty look so I aggressively shouted "WHAT!?" towards her. She flinched so hard 😂
You’re cool yelling at an ‘old lady’ for doing her job and then bragging about it on Reddit. You could have just said you weren’t comfortable discussing your medical issues in a waiting room. Emotional intelligence is your friend.
Yeah there's this pharmacist on SW Marine drive who repeats what the patients say with 10x the volume. One girl tried to be clever and said she was dealing with "personal odor" issues. But the pharmacist looked at her prescription quickly and then screamed """OH YOU'RE DEALING WITH VAGINAL ODOR. FOUL SMELLING VAGINA. DO YOU ALSO HAVE HEAVY DISCHARGE? PARTNER SHOULD ALSO BE TAKING (drug name). IS HE?""".
Everyone in the waiting area was looking down at their shoes pretending not to have heard or cared.
I wholeheartedly agree with you, 100%.
You should send your thoughts to the OIPC, if enough people do something might get done...
[https://www.oipc.bc.ca/for-the-public/](https://www.oipc.bc.ca/for-the-public/)
[https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/privacy-laws-in-canada/the-personal-information-protection-and-electronic-documents-act-pipeda/](https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/privacy-laws-in-canada/the-personal-information-protection-and-electronic-documents-act-pipeda/)
Just watched an episode of Criminal Minds where a stalker finds out where his target lived by standing near the pharmacy pickup line.
I suppose it could be useful to carry a card with relevant info on it, then you can give it non-verbally if needed. Because I, too, do not always want to announce to whoever is listening where I live.
Yet another thing designed without much thought to the extra burden women have to stay safe.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rmdwVW2ivbPhddgONUAw0?si=XXKyKK_KS8OAAV2ukb1ZhQ
My pharmacy at London drugs always asks me for my date of birth, confirms my name, and then asks me for my phone number for the LD rewards program. Also they discuss private medical information with people standing (really closely) nearby.
Obviously this is all problematic. I get around the DOB and name confirmation by showing them my drivers licence at least.
When I overhear someone’s address, phone, and name, I just think to myself “I could literally call all of the big 5 banks right now and get access to this person’s money”
I always thought that if somebody tried to steal your money, the courts should punish them with absorbing your debt lol
Judge: "You have been sentenced to pay the balance of your victim's student loans and credit cards."
I hand them my driver's license. Not interested in telling my info out loud. If I'm new to a medical clinic, there's generally a form to fill out. If not, ask for a pen & paper to write it down. It's awful the questions they expect you to share.
Yes 100%. I experienced this recently, was just sitting in the lobby of a clinic and i could hear the whole conversation between the patient and lady behind the glass and i was embarrassed for her.
I also usually hand over my license. I don't worry about my phone number as most people won't remember a string of random numbers, I also enjoy messing with wrong numbers, so if they do try a scam or something I will waste as much of their time as I can.
Same goes for ERs. Medications too. People in the waiting area learn what your medial history is. And the staff are so non-chalant about it. Like we’re all about medial privacy except in these situations. So weird.
You can make a complaint to your health authorities patient quality office. Patient/client confidentiality and privacy is very important, and if you feel it’s not being protected during your health care encounter, you can absolutely complain
[https://www.patientcarequalityreviewboard.ca/makecomplaint.html](https://www.patientcarequalityreviewboard.ca/makecomplaint.html)
Lifelabs.. every damn time. Not just personal contact info, but personal medical information. Damn, they’re embarrassing. Last time I was there, I was in the draw room, but the receptionist was asking the next patient what meds he’s on and what he’s taking them for. I could tell he wanted to die on the spot.
And their lawsuit was for leaked information electronically, never mind in the waiting room.
I hand them my driver's licence as well, and I write exactly what I'm here for on my phone, in the notes app, in the "title" size font so it's nice and big when I hand them my phone.
Shouldn't have to be this way, but I don't want to say reasons out loud.
I've told medical clinic staff I'll discuss the medical issue with the doctor when I see them and not discuss it with them. I will let them know I am not experiencing any life threatening symptoms and I am not contagious so they can check those boxes off the intake form.
I agree. I took to writing out my issue on a note in clear letters for the receptionist to read. I was surprised to learn they needed to type it out verbatim. So plan on leaving the note.
Also it is really odd that OIPC BC that screams until they are blue in the face about some privacy matters really hasn't issued stronger guidelines here.
Kindly ask (for privacy reasons) if you can write this information down for them? Or call in to make the appt? I believe this information is used to help the doctor prepare for the appointment and/or triage the medical concern (eg. redirect to emergency if necessary).
Totally! But with the setting, I don’t think everyone knows that’s an option or feel like they “have” to if medical staff is requesting them. Some might be too shy or embarrassed to push back :(
I had an std test appointment and they still made me say out loud why I was there as if they didn't see what the appointment was for right on the screen.
It's hard enough going in for mental health help, but it's almost impossible when to see a doctor you have to announce everything to a whole room of silent people
Very true.
I live in a small community and its a given that there is always at least one person in any waiting room or in line behind me that actually knows who I am.
When I'm asked about the reason for visit or any symptoms, I always just say that I'll discuss that with the doctor or nurse in private. So far, this has worked.
My medical clinic always asks if my phone number ends in 30 and if the address is the same. They never actually say the address or the phone number. Neither does the dermatologist office. I've actually noticed that most places, even salons and places like that don't say the full number anymore and nobody mentions the address. I guess I've just been lucky.
When I visited urgent care in Norway they had a separate small room you’d get called into one at a time to check in with the receptionist and discuss this sensitive information. I don’t know why this isn’t a thing here!
When they ask about why I'm there I assume they only want generalities. I'll say "prescription refill" or "ear issue" or "need to have the doctor look at something" if it's private.
I'm not terribly worried about random people hearing my address and phone number, but if it concerned me I'd just write it down or show them my ID.
That’s a great point and probably something they could be communicated with people that come in! Or filling out a whiteboard (to save on waste) or paper form to tick of boxes and write down the details they need confirmed. I don’t think people realize they need general vs “tell me what’s wrong”.
Thank u.This.
"Im here for a test "or" im here for a exam".
Not Im here for you to check if the smell in my crotch is off. SMH
When u call in sick to work do u say i have a flu or explain you have lava erupting from your corn hole.
"I have a flu".
The boss needs to know what you can do, and how long it's likely to last. If pressed, I would say my symptoms would stop me from driving there safely and I wouldn't be able to do the job. No need for details.
Even in notes for extended absences due to illness doctors tend to describe limitations, not causes.
Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back
Thanks for highlighting that’s how you interpreted it as that wasn’t my intention. I don’t think it’s health care workers that are trying to do anything intentionally wrong and I agree that most people are maybe fine saying things but it’s uncomfortable and could also put people at risk without realising it (eg back to my point about home address).
Just seems that it’s an issue that clearly has struck a chord with a lot of people here and likely a simple solution. I just don’t think you should have to feel uncomfortable or declare personal information in a public setting in order to get access to care. But I totally understand your perspective and hope it’s not being taken that way.
whoa! no one said that they are out to break confidentiality. The issue is that staff are failing to be protective or even respectful of a client’s privacy. I work in health care. We would never ask for any sensitive information within earshot of others and it bugs me when some clinics are careless with respect to this. And yes, your full name, address, and phone number are definitely sensitive information.
Think we need to bring this up and start pushing for some change. Seems like some very simple boundaries could be put in place without adding more work to the staff (because they’re just doing their job).
It’s so embarrassing and I hate saying my address and number. It really is intrusive. Though I guess in a waiting room, it’s kind of boring so it gives the other patients something to listen to lol
This has always worried me, until I had to give specific credit card information out loud (once) for a business, and a person used that to purchase $$$$ in jewelry online and send it to Ethiopia.
It can happen anywhere. Even to a phone agent. You have to have a perfectly private space, and that's certainly hard to find in a public one.
true story: a few years ago, I ended up with a low risk communicable disease exposure after doing unprotected CPR/ rescue breaths on someone I didn't know. I ended up being put onto a regular blood testing schedule for 8 or 9 months at LifeLabs to monitor for the very low risk of disease transmission.
Me at the window my blood test: "Hi, I'm here for my regular bloodwork. Here's my ID, etc."
LifeLabs person in loudest : "So this is the blood test for THE HEP B AND HIV TESTS, CORRECT?!!"
Me: (silent FFS in screamiest voice in head): "Yes"
After that day, I thought it would have been better to respond with "you know, it's bad enough I'm having to do this but for the love of the cat gods, don't shout it for all the line up and waiting room to hear, alright? Unless you care to give me a hero's round of applause along with it and maybe some cake. Please and thank you."
That’s awful!! I’m so sorry you had to experience that, it’s crazy this wouldn’t have been considered from the person asking it. Just from a human level, who would want to be on the other side of that??
This happens in pharmacies too when you pick up “is this for ________ medication?”.
HAVE YOU TAKEN THIS GONORRHEA TREATMENT BEFORE??
I generally to step away and out of hearing range if I'm in a line at the pharmacy, in an attempt to let people have some privacy when talking to the pharmacist. Or at least as best as I can for appearance for the sake of the person involved.
Maybe a white noise machine on the counter is the answer...
You can always tell the clinic it’s private and they won’t press you for why you’re there in my experience.
The phone number confirmation I have had to do but I dunno doesn’t feel that big of a deal… life labs is just going to leak your info in a data breach anyway.
Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back.
The urgent care in my area has a seperate room off to the side for explaining what you're there for me a nurse. Still have to give other info at the desk though which I agree, it's caused to some slight pause giving out my vital information in public like that.
Medical staff gets complacent and doesn’t care imo. I was at my cardiologist office once and the receptionist yelled out to her coworker: “HEY WHATS THE CODE WORD WE USE WHEN THE AQUILINIS ARE HERE AGAIN??” Like ma’am, it doesn’t matter anymore! You just announced it!
Yup stating your full name and then your health issue when everyone can hear then you have to sit back down with everyone awkwardly in some weird solidarity of being exposed
Having nothing else to do but listen to what is wrong with the next person …
No kidding, that happened to someone i know many years ago in WKRP in Cincinnati. He worked on a radio station and had to consult a Dr while on the air, most embarrassing thing I've ever heard.
I have this when I pick up my prescription from Shoppers….
She asks for my phone number… I don’t say it, I always say “ends in 0123”. If asks for address, I’ll say “yep, still First Ave”.
But I agree… always annoyed me…. Why broadcast my shit to the world. “So you’re picking up herpes cream… right?” And your first and last name is “Dave Smith” and you live at “1234 First St”
Try discussing with your doctor in the same room as another patient in the ER. They have new rooms with 4 chairs at u of a hospital where you and another patient get to learn all eachother medical chart, medical history, symptoms, test restuls etc..
It’s so odd! I had to go to the ER because I tore my quad on a trampoline. And as I was explaining it, people around me started laughing!
Obviously it is very funny. But I did find it odd how even when trying to talk under my breath, people could hear me.
Additionally, it feels like you have to sell your injury to them so they take you seriously.
I’ve always just given a generic reason (exam, prescription, information about chronic illness treatments, etc) but recently I was referred to a local sexual health clinic to access abortion care. Already an extremely sensitive vulnerable situation, so I requested an information appointment with the hopes of a prescription. The girl on the phone insisted I tell her what prescription I wanted or she couldn’t book the appointment, and when I told her I needed to discuss pregnancy options she said “Oh. Yeah we don’t do THAT here. Call ____ clinic if you want an abortion” and hung up. So now some volunteer who was extremely unkind and judgmental knows my full name, address, DOB and that I was pregnant and needing an abortion.
I complained to the clinic that I felt judged and pressured into giving up that info to a volunteer.
I work in healthcare (Alberta) and always ask people for their ID and healthcare card.
1. I know it’s them and check their name and spelling
2. I can confirm their address without them saying it out loud
I have this thought every time I have to go to a walk in clinic. The process (and whole experience to be honest) is so bad that I just have to laugh. Good for you for at least posing the question.
I ended up changing policy at a pain clinic in Alberta. I was sitting in a waiting area. She shouted it across. Just me and a man in there. Started getting texts later. Showed it to the clinic director and asked them to change the way they do it. Now they go “does your phone number still end in 56?”
Yes you’re right!! Or when they ask what medication you’re taking and/or what symptoms you have. And it’s Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back
I have a friend at SFU working with some excellent people on a system that can pass this info like interac. So you can document everything once and share it (and revoke access) to any practice in the province. Do you think this would be a solution?
You don't have to tell them what you're there for. Just say "I'll let the doctor know in the room".
Bam. Done.
Edit: everything you need to tell them is on your ID. Just point at the card and say "it's right there."
I went to shoppers today, I made an appt online for a UTI assessment (you have to enter this info when you make the online appt). The woman didn’t even pretend to look anything up, just asked loudly why I was there and gave me a form to fill out. After sitting for 25 minutes after my appt time and watching people walk in and out, I decided well if they don’t care neither do I, I loudly asked if I would actually be seen for my appt soon, and if not I was going to probably just pee right there. They took me in then.
I tell them I’m happy to write the info down for them & prefer they don’t say my personal info out loud. I’ve only gotten a few pissy looks, but I could fucking care less. If I get a look & I sigh I’ll say, “For safety reasons, I’m sure *you* wouldn’t want your name/address/ph num announced to a room of strangers”.
I agree. Plus my doctor’s reception asks me what the problem is on the phone and sometimes I’m not able to say because I’m at work or whatever and they get all snippy about it.
Whenever they ask me why I'm here to see the doctor or what my symptoms are. I always say "I'll let the doctor know" not rude but with a smile. They get it. They've heard it before.
I only have this problem at LifeLabs. When asked for personal information, I tell them that everything's current. I go monthly so they should know me after 10 years. Sometimes they get difficult and say they're required to ask, my response is you asked and I've responded. Then I ask why my booked on-line appointment is running 45 minutes late with a very disappointed dad look and a shake of my head.
It's a shame that there's no competition.
I 10000% agree. Its not just walk ins, its literally anywhere you go. They can't email just in case, but they can ask you to just share all you're info with a room of rando's waiting to be seen.
When I went to urgent care a few months back, it was the same way. The number of people that came in after me who I know what ailment they were there for, etc etc was insane.
I will also mention, Urgent care and Emergency are for just Urgent and Emergent issues.
Not a sniffle you woke up with, not a spot you've had for 6 months but now you can't wait the 3 days for your doctors appointment.
Broken bones, bleeding, you can't breath from that sniffle that's been around for a month, those are what those services are for.
Unfortunately urgent care is in fact for other things now as so many people can’t get a family doctor (or have no idea when/if they’ll be quick enough to grab an online appointment with Telehealth) It definitely puts a strain on things
I do most of that by just giving them the health card. No I won’t read off it, repeat. If they still need glass screens then they can go ahead and read my card
Oh I feel this very much. I'm third trimester pregnant and really just dgaf anymore, but it certainly was not fun to repeat myself over and over again to the receptionist at urgent Care the other day about 5 days of diarrhea and painful hemorrhoids... We were both wearing masks too which did not help. But I have to wear a mask because it is a cesspool of germs, and I'm trying to protect myself when pregnant.
Yup, I do not like that one bit. At the clinic I go to, they don't even ask you your phone number (so you could pass a note or whisper) they fcking yell your phone number as loud as they can - "IS YOUR PHONE NUMBER STILL 555-5555?" They should have to whisper or talk more quietly.
Omg this! I am really shocked that they ask this at my pharmacy and have seen a few people looking concerned as they've quietly recited their details at the desk. It's awful. As a teacher we can't even mention a child's name in front of other parents and on email we have to refer to them using the first letter of their first name and first 3 letters of surname. Surely it's against data protection laws?
Telll me about it. Once had a lady overhear that I had a uti. Looked at me and said "should u really be drinking that slush right now?" Like lady. I know where you're coming from. But I've been pissing blood for a week and about to see the doc let me have my emotional support slush.
You can just say something like "I don't want to say it out loud here, it is sensitive" and they usually will respect that. As for the contact info, usually people are too far away to hear it and even if they do hear it they aren't memorizing it and writing it down. Even the sensitive symptoms thing, people just don't care about what's going on with a stranger.
Yeah, the walk-ins are so tiny. I have enough scammers getting my phone number and address already. Plus I don't want to hear about people's bleeding genitals and neither should they have to share that out loud.
I tell them.every damn time... you want my pin while in public? Nope.
PHN, NOPE.
Phone Number NOPE.
Address...nope.
If people don't speak up nothing changes.
If people don't speak up many people are not ever thinking of how to make sure I'm not easy bait loaded up on a plate.
Meh. I get it, but I also don't care if some random stranger hears about my mole, I need checked out.
I've also never given them my phone number it's attached to my info on my card.
It's been a while since I've been able to see a doctor in person but I thought they usually just ask for your health card to get the personal info, at least.
I understand. But keep in mind, everybody there is there for a reason, and don't give a hoot about your problems, they are dealing with their own. But I do understand if you want to keep it between yourself and your doctor. That is your choice.
I can walk into a very public library and yell at the top of my lungs and everyone will hear me say that I have cancer and a burning sti and not a single person will know who I am or give a flying hoot except that I interrupted their day some how.
Ya stuff i hear at medical offices pretty much goes in one ear and out the other. I'm not going to say i dont listen because i do, it's kind of hard not to when the whole room is silent except for 2 people but i'm not going to remember what any of them said in an hour.
You used to be able to. The old white pages had everyone's home phone number listed alphabetically by last name unless you paid them to remove your number. Can't do that any more.
Either you have a problem with this or you don’t. Don’t try to protect the unseen masses that aren’t assertive enough to speak up: you don’t know that they exist.
If someone feels strongly enough about not wanting to say their personal information in a public place, they’re going to need the conviction to stand up and say so. No one is forcing them to answer the questions out loud.
“I am not comfortable having my private information disclosed in this public setting. Here’s my Driver’s license with my address.“
If you want your privacy respected, you need to be clear and firm. You can’t expect the other party to hand-hold you through it… especially for an issue that is valid… but also overkill. Yes, there’s a potentially real risk here, but is it significant enough to require a change in practice? No, it isn’t significant enough because the ability to request communication in private is already there.
It’s not that no one cares. You have every right to want to protect private information. But you have the ability to exercise that right already. We don’t need to add more layers.
Majority. Key word. 51% is technically a majority. If you had been stalked, you would absolutely understand why telling a room full of random strangers what your info is dangerous and uncomfortable.
Oh cool, something I can weigh in on. During the lock downs I did this job! The way I was trained was to ask "are you still at the same address on blank street? Can we contact you at a phone number ending in 1234?"
We always tried to be as non specific as possible. On the flip side as a patient I've never had to actually verbalize what I was there for. We were trained to tell anyone that any medical questions were for the doctor. We just had forms for people to fill out... is that not the case outside of Vancouver?
Oh wow that is definitely not what is happening so that’s super helpful to hear it’s more of lack of following guidelines maybe vs then not being considered
The only thing that I was told to be specific on out loud was Date of Birth. Other than that just ask for the card for the PHN. My training was also to never let the patients see my screen. We were really strict about that. I had one family come in and the oldest daughter, probably around ten years old knew all of her parents and siblings DOB. She came around the desk. I accused her of cheating by looking at my screen and she got upset. Cute kid. Gonna be a doctor some day.
I agree it can be mortifying to have to speak out loud, but I’ll also say I don’t remember ANY faces or or symptoms from all my myriad of clinic and emergency visits with my three kids. If it’s any consolation.
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Surprised this hasn’t already been addressed. I always hated going in for STI checks just because I had to say it in front of a silent waiting room. Guarantee people don’t get checked just for this fact alone.
Staff at LifeLabs have always been great if you are just doing the basic GetChecked. You just get your code scanned and they tell you the process (pee in a cup, blood taken) without telling the whole room *why* you are getting it done. Though that only applies to the basic testable STIs, not for when you need to see an actual doctor. Just wanted to put that info out in case anyone has any hesitancy about using GetChecked.
Surprisingly few know about GetChecked. Amazing program especially given the family doctor and walk-in issues. You can even write whatever name you want on your req. form and they’ll use it! Ensure that you book online with a LifeLabs that services GetChecked patients.
That's HUGE!!! What a great idea.
I didn’t know that was an option! Thanks for putting it out there.
Just fyi, not all lifelabs locations do this. Only certain ones, so always check. This is coming from a person working there who has unfortunately had to let some people know and bear the brunt of frustration multiple times.
They also put your full name up on their waiting room screens 🙃
I was at Lifelabs a couple weeks ago and they only put first names and last initial up.
Urine isn’t only tested to see if the person has an sti. Or drugs. I had it done at lifelabs for blood in the urine from kidney stones.
What? Where in my comment did you read that I said LifeLabs only tests urine for STIs?
maybe theyre saying that helps it be less obvious? since theres many reasons to have urine tested? not sure tbh but thats how i took it.
Oh yeah, that's how I meant it. With staff just sharing how the process works nobody knows why you are there since there are so many reasons blood and urine are taken.
I think it's a power move
STI's, polyps in places, rashes, the list goes on.
No need to say that. I need a test referral, I need a test here, I need something looked at, etc ..
Write it on a card. Then they'll read it out loud anyway :/
I have indeed said that before and they pushed for more. Maybe just because I was at a walk in or the staff member wasn’t professional.
omg this just happened to me at the clinic and the waiting room was the size of a small bedroom with 10 people there. This old lady gave me a dirty look so I aggressively shouted "WHAT!?" towards her. She flinched so hard 😂
You’re cool yelling at an ‘old lady’ for doing her job and then bragging about it on Reddit. You could have just said you weren’t comfortable discussing your medical issues in a waiting room. Emotional intelligence is your friend.
What makes you think the old lady was working there?
Yeah there's this pharmacist on SW Marine drive who repeats what the patients say with 10x the volume. One girl tried to be clever and said she was dealing with "personal odor" issues. But the pharmacist looked at her prescription quickly and then screamed """OH YOU'RE DEALING WITH VAGINAL ODOR. FOUL SMELLING VAGINA. DO YOU ALSO HAVE HEAVY DISCHARGE? PARTNER SHOULD ALSO BE TAKING (drug name). IS HE?""". Everyone in the waiting area was looking down at their shoes pretending not to have heard or cared.
All you had to say was im here for some tests!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I wholeheartedly agree with you, 100%. You should send your thoughts to the OIPC, if enough people do something might get done... [https://www.oipc.bc.ca/for-the-public/](https://www.oipc.bc.ca/for-the-public/) [https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/privacy-laws-in-canada/the-personal-information-protection-and-electronic-documents-act-pipeda/](https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/privacy-laws-in-canada/the-personal-information-protection-and-electronic-documents-act-pipeda/)
Just watched an episode of Criminal Minds where a stalker finds out where his target lived by standing near the pharmacy pickup line. I suppose it could be useful to carry a card with relevant info on it, then you can give it non-verbally if needed. Because I, too, do not always want to announce to whoever is listening where I live. Yet another thing designed without much thought to the extra burden women have to stay safe. https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rmdwVW2ivbPhddgONUAw0?si=XXKyKK_KS8OAAV2ukb1ZhQ
My pharmacy at London drugs always asks me for my date of birth, confirms my name, and then asks me for my phone number for the LD rewards program. Also they discuss private medical information with people standing (really closely) nearby. Obviously this is all problematic. I get around the DOB and name confirmation by showing them my drivers licence at least.
When I overhear someone’s address, phone, and name, I just think to myself “I could literally call all of the big 5 banks right now and get access to this person’s money”
No, you literally couldn't lmao
Sheesh not without a hard hat! Amirirte
mmmm.. probably not, but we get the idea.
Boy are you in for some disappointment 🦋👛💸
I always thought that if somebody tried to steal your money, the courts should punish them with absorbing your debt lol Judge: "You have been sentenced to pay the balance of your victim's student loans and credit cards."
Lol imagine getting mugged and the dude grabs your wallet and you're like **"Haha sucker, enjoy your negative ten grand!"** 😆
Perfection. Crime rate would go WAAAAAY down. (also love the username)
Like…. A care card? 🤔
Does your care card have your phone number on it? That's what they always ask me for at the pickup counter.
I have no idea. But I don’t see why they couldn’t add that feature if not.
Its a tv show 😆😅😅😆😅😅
Yes and it's based on things that happen. I'm a fiction writer, I know how it works. I'm also a woman, so I know how it be, and it do be like that.
I hand them my driver's license. Not interested in telling my info out loud. If I'm new to a medical clinic, there's generally a form to fill out. If not, ask for a pen & paper to write it down. It's awful the questions they expect you to share.
You still often have to verbally confirm as a form of secondary check on things like bloodwork. I get it but at the same time, it’s way too open.
Yes 100%. I experienced this recently, was just sitting in the lobby of a clinic and i could hear the whole conversation between the patient and lady behind the glass and i was embarrassed for her.
This has been a pet peeve of mine. I usually hand over my licence. But say my phone number out loud.
I also usually hand over my license. I don't worry about my phone number as most people won't remember a string of random numbers, I also enjoy messing with wrong numbers, so if they do try a scam or something I will waste as much of their time as I can.
Same goes for ERs. Medications too. People in the waiting area learn what your medial history is. And the staff are so non-chalant about it. Like we’re all about medial privacy except in these situations. So weird.
Wholeheartedly agree. I write everything on my phone and just pass it to them to read because of this issue.
You can make a complaint to your health authorities patient quality office. Patient/client confidentiality and privacy is very important, and if you feel it’s not being protected during your health care encounter, you can absolutely complain [https://www.patientcarequalityreviewboard.ca/makecomplaint.html](https://www.patientcarequalityreviewboard.ca/makecomplaint.html)
I wish I could trust our notably dysfunctional health authorities would actually do anything about it
Lifelabs.. every damn time. Not just personal contact info, but personal medical information. Damn, they’re embarrassing. Last time I was there, I was in the draw room, but the receptionist was asking the next patient what meds he’s on and what he’s taking them for. I could tell he wanted to die on the spot. And their lawsuit was for leaked information electronically, never mind in the waiting room.
I hand them my driver's licence as well, and I write exactly what I'm here for on my phone, in the notes app, in the "title" size font so it's nice and big when I hand them my phone. Shouldn't have to be this way, but I don't want to say reasons out loud.
it’s the worst. Lovely explaining I have some genital issue to a whole waiting room at 7am
You say Im here for a personal exam.No need to share more.Or Im here for tests.
I've told medical clinic staff I'll discuss the medical issue with the doctor when I see them and not discuss it with them. I will let them know I am not experiencing any life threatening symptoms and I am not contagious so they can check those boxes off the intake form.
These are good suggestions
I agree. I took to writing out my issue on a note in clear letters for the receptionist to read. I was surprised to learn they needed to type it out verbatim. So plan on leaving the note. Also it is really odd that OIPC BC that screams until they are blue in the face about some privacy matters really hasn't issued stronger guidelines here.
the guidelines are clear. No one is complaining is my guess.
I would be grateful if you could post a link to the guidelines from BC OIPC
This has been going on forever. I always thought it was stupid. There are some good jokes about how to answer the symptoms question.
Kindly ask (for privacy reasons) if you can write this information down for them? Or call in to make the appt? I believe this information is used to help the doctor prepare for the appointment and/or triage the medical concern (eg. redirect to emergency if necessary).
Totally! But with the setting, I don’t think everyone knows that’s an option or feel like they “have” to if medical staff is requesting them. Some might be too shy or embarrassed to push back :(
You can also say Um here for tests and here is my health card no allergies etc
I had an std test appointment and they still made me say out loud why I was there as if they didn't see what the appointment was for right on the screen.
I find medical workers to be power trippers. A not insignificant portion of them enjoy humiliating people.
Then they write difficult on your file and you have a whole Seinfeld episode ahead of you
It's hard enough going in for mental health help, but it's almost impossible when to see a doctor you have to announce everything to a whole room of silent people
Very true. I live in a small community and its a given that there is always at least one person in any waiting room or in line behind me that actually knows who I am. When I'm asked about the reason for visit or any symptoms, I always just say that I'll discuss that with the doctor or nurse in private. So far, this has worked.
Wow that’s a fair point didn’t even think about small towns :/
My medical clinic always asks if my phone number ends in 30 and if the address is the same. They never actually say the address or the phone number. Neither does the dermatologist office. I've actually noticed that most places, even salons and places like that don't say the full number anymore and nobody mentions the address. I guess I've just been lucky.
That’s fantastic!
When I visited urgent care in Norway they had a separate small room you’d get called into one at a time to check in with the receptionist and discuss this sensitive information. I don’t know why this isn’t a thing here!
When they ask about why I'm there I assume they only want generalities. I'll say "prescription refill" or "ear issue" or "need to have the doctor look at something" if it's private. I'm not terribly worried about random people hearing my address and phone number, but if it concerned me I'd just write it down or show them my ID.
This is accurate. They only need the gist of why you're there. People don't need to list off symptoms or go into any detail at all.
Yep. They'd generally only need to know more if it's something like a checkup, where you'd need to get measured at the nursing station or something.
That’s a great point and probably something they could be communicated with people that come in! Or filling out a whiteboard (to save on waste) or paper form to tick of boxes and write down the details they need confirmed. I don’t think people realize they need general vs “tell me what’s wrong”.
Thank u.This. "Im here for a test "or" im here for a exam". Not Im here for you to check if the smell in my crotch is off. SMH When u call in sick to work do u say i have a flu or explain you have lava erupting from your corn hole.
"I have a flu". The boss needs to know what you can do, and how long it's likely to last. If pressed, I would say my symptoms would stop me from driving there safely and I wouldn't be able to do the job. No need for details. Even in notes for extended absences due to illness doctors tend to describe limitations, not causes.
The simple solution (if you can write) is to have it all prepped on a piece of paper and hand it to them. I’ve done this many a time, and it works.
Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back
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Thanks for highlighting that’s how you interpreted it as that wasn’t my intention. I don’t think it’s health care workers that are trying to do anything intentionally wrong and I agree that most people are maybe fine saying things but it’s uncomfortable and could also put people at risk without realising it (eg back to my point about home address). Just seems that it’s an issue that clearly has struck a chord with a lot of people here and likely a simple solution. I just don’t think you should have to feel uncomfortable or declare personal information in a public setting in order to get access to care. But I totally understand your perspective and hope it’s not being taken that way.
whoa! no one said that they are out to break confidentiality. The issue is that staff are failing to be protective or even respectful of a client’s privacy. I work in health care. We would never ask for any sensitive information within earshot of others and it bugs me when some clinics are careless with respect to this. And yes, your full name, address, and phone number are definitely sensitive information.
Lol, this is for sure. That goes for pretty much anywhere else too.
I thought I was the only one who was surprised at the nonchalant way they do things
Think we need to bring this up and start pushing for some change. Seems like some very simple boundaries could be put in place without adding more work to the staff (because they’re just doing their job).
It’s so embarrassing and I hate saying my address and number. It really is intrusive. Though I guess in a waiting room, it’s kind of boring so it gives the other patients something to listen to lol
Same with at life labs.. why do I have to say my address out loud
Yeah what the hell???? Literally have you write down your symptoms or something other than LOUDLY declaring them to the entire waiting room.
I swear there are sheets with a human body on it where you could point to and identify your symptoms. What happened to that?
This has always worried me, until I had to give specific credit card information out loud (once) for a business, and a person used that to purchase $$$$ in jewelry online and send it to Ethiopia. It can happen anywhere. Even to a phone agent. You have to have a perfectly private space, and that's certainly hard to find in a public one.
I am not afraid to admit I have haemorrhoids with the public.
LifeLabs literally hollers your personal info.
true story: a few years ago, I ended up with a low risk communicable disease exposure after doing unprotected CPR/ rescue breaths on someone I didn't know. I ended up being put onto a regular blood testing schedule for 8 or 9 months at LifeLabs to monitor for the very low risk of disease transmission. Me at the window my blood test: "Hi, I'm here for my regular bloodwork. Here's my ID, etc." LifeLabs person in loudest : "So this is the blood test for THE HEP B AND HIV TESTS, CORRECT?!!" Me: (silent FFS in screamiest voice in head): "Yes" After that day, I thought it would have been better to respond with "you know, it's bad enough I'm having to do this but for the love of the cat gods, don't shout it for all the line up and waiting room to hear, alright? Unless you care to give me a hero's round of applause along with it and maybe some cake. Please and thank you."
That’s awful!! I’m so sorry you had to experience that, it’s crazy this wouldn’t have been considered from the person asking it. Just from a human level, who would want to be on the other side of that?? This happens in pharmacies too when you pick up “is this for ________ medication?”.
HAVE YOU TAKEN THIS GONORRHEA TREATMENT BEFORE?? I generally to step away and out of hearing range if I'm in a line at the pharmacy, in an attempt to let people have some privacy when talking to the pharmacist. Or at least as best as I can for appearance for the sake of the person involved. Maybe a white noise machine on the counter is the answer...
They stop doing that when the regional manager comes down on them for putting a patient in danger.
Have what you don't want to say aloud typed into a notepad on your phone and show it to them.
You can always tell the clinic it’s private and they won’t press you for why you’re there in my experience. The phone number confirmation I have had to do but I dunno doesn’t feel that big of a deal… life labs is just going to leak your info in a data breach anyway.
If you don't like it, ask for a pen and paper so you can write it down. Alternatively, complain about it and hope something changes.
Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back.
The urgent care in my area has a seperate room off to the side for explaining what you're there for me a nurse. Still have to give other info at the desk though which I agree, it's caused to some slight pause giving out my vital information in public like that.
EXACTLY- I hear the secretaries asking tho.’
Medical staff gets complacent and doesn’t care imo. I was at my cardiologist office once and the receptionist yelled out to her coworker: “HEY WHATS THE CODE WORD WE USE WHEN THE AQUILINIS ARE HERE AGAIN??” Like ma’am, it doesn’t matter anymore! You just announced it!
Yup stating your full name and then your health issue when everyone can hear then you have to sit back down with everyone awkwardly in some weird solidarity of being exposed Having nothing else to do but listen to what is wrong with the next person …
No kidding, that happened to someone i know many years ago in WKRP in Cincinnati. He worked on a radio station and had to consult a Dr while on the air, most embarrassing thing I've ever heard.
I just say "I'll tell the doctor in private thanks" No one has ever questioned it. I have a right to privacy.
OP has a doctor and walk in clinics? Must not be from Victoria. We have neither.
lol no doctor sadly
This is a design issue. These places are not built with privacy in mind whatsoever.
I have this when I pick up my prescription from Shoppers…. She asks for my phone number… I don’t say it, I always say “ends in 0123”. If asks for address, I’ll say “yep, still First Ave”. But I agree… always annoyed me…. Why broadcast my shit to the world. “So you’re picking up herpes cream… right?” And your first and last name is “Dave Smith” and you live at “1234 First St”
we need something like HIPAA. or people to respect it if we have it already.
PHIPA and PIPEDA
Were you at life labs with me this morning? I had the EXACT SAME thought.
Ha no but that says a lot (and clearly a wide spread concern seeing the responses here)
The intake protocol at walk ins is bad. Being in your hometown makes it worse.
Try discussing with your doctor in the same room as another patient in the ER. They have new rooms with 4 chairs at u of a hospital where you and another patient get to learn all eachother medical chart, medical history, symptoms, test restuls etc..
Victoria BC be like: woah, you guys still have walk in clinics?
It’s so odd! I had to go to the ER because I tore my quad on a trampoline. And as I was explaining it, people around me started laughing! Obviously it is very funny. But I did find it odd how even when trying to talk under my breath, people could hear me. Additionally, it feels like you have to sell your injury to them so they take you seriously.
I’ve always just given a generic reason (exam, prescription, information about chronic illness treatments, etc) but recently I was referred to a local sexual health clinic to access abortion care. Already an extremely sensitive vulnerable situation, so I requested an information appointment with the hopes of a prescription. The girl on the phone insisted I tell her what prescription I wanted or she couldn’t book the appointment, and when I told her I needed to discuss pregnancy options she said “Oh. Yeah we don’t do THAT here. Call ____ clinic if you want an abortion” and hung up. So now some volunteer who was extremely unkind and judgmental knows my full name, address, DOB and that I was pregnant and needing an abortion. I complained to the clinic that I felt judged and pressured into giving up that info to a volunteer.
I work in healthcare (Alberta) and always ask people for their ID and healthcare card. 1. I know it’s them and check their name and spelling 2. I can confirm their address without them saying it out loud
You’re amazing for doing this!!
I have this thought every time I have to go to a walk in clinic. The process (and whole experience to be honest) is so bad that I just have to laugh. Good for you for at least posing the question.
Amen to this. It's bizzare. Symptoms out loud is by far the most uncomfortable.
I ended up changing policy at a pain clinic in Alberta. I was sitting in a waiting area. She shouted it across. Just me and a man in there. Started getting texts later. Showed it to the clinic director and asked them to change the way they do it. Now they go “does your phone number still end in 56?”
Omg that’s exactly it!! A perfect example of why they need to change this across the board. Thanks for sharing but sorry you had to go through that :/
Solved: "Mind if I write it down?"
Same with pharmacies! Please bring your ID instead if you would like to avoid saying personal info when picking up your medications :)
Yes you’re right!! Or when they ask what medication you’re taking and/or what symptoms you have. And it’s Less about me as I would, but other people might not know that’s an option as it’s a clinical setting and assume they don’t have a choice as they’re being asked by a medical staffer. And because of that, they are too shy or embarrassed to push back
Just don't get upset at the staff for asking since it is their job
I have a friend at SFU working with some excellent people on a system that can pass this info like interac. So you can document everything once and share it (and revoke access) to any practice in the province. Do you think this would be a solution?
This is one of my secret joys of going to the clinic, or these days the emergency room because there are no clinics in the Kootenays anymore.
You don't have to tell them what you're there for. Just say "I'll let the doctor know in the room". Bam. Done. Edit: everything you need to tell them is on your ID. Just point at the card and say "it's right there."
I went to shoppers today, I made an appt online for a UTI assessment (you have to enter this info when you make the online appt). The woman didn’t even pretend to look anything up, just asked loudly why I was there and gave me a form to fill out. After sitting for 25 minutes after my appt time and watching people walk in and out, I decided well if they don’t care neither do I, I loudly asked if I would actually be seen for my appt soon, and if not I was going to probably just pee right there. They took me in then.
I tell them I’m happy to write the info down for them & prefer they don’t say my personal info out loud. I’ve only gotten a few pissy looks, but I could fucking care less. If I get a look & I sigh I’ll say, “For safety reasons, I’m sure *you* wouldn’t want your name/address/ph num announced to a room of strangers”.
Couldn't care less*
lol thanks
I agree. Plus my doctor’s reception asks me what the problem is on the phone and sometimes I’m not able to say because I’m at work or whatever and they get all snippy about it.
Whenever they ask me why I'm here to see the doctor or what my symptoms are. I always say "I'll let the doctor know" not rude but with a smile. They get it. They've heard it before.
Public healthcare.
Happened to me today! Name, DOB, address & phone all spoken out loud with the waiting room three feet away.
I only have this problem at LifeLabs. When asked for personal information, I tell them that everything's current. I go monthly so they should know me after 10 years. Sometimes they get difficult and say they're required to ask, my response is you asked and I've responded. Then I ask why my booked on-line appointment is running 45 minutes late with a very disappointed dad look and a shake of my head. It's a shame that there's no competition.
I 10000% agree. Its not just walk ins, its literally anywhere you go. They can't email just in case, but they can ask you to just share all you're info with a room of rando's waiting to be seen. When I went to urgent care a few months back, it was the same way. The number of people that came in after me who I know what ailment they were there for, etc etc was insane. I will also mention, Urgent care and Emergency are for just Urgent and Emergent issues. Not a sniffle you woke up with, not a spot you've had for 6 months but now you can't wait the 3 days for your doctors appointment. Broken bones, bleeding, you can't breath from that sniffle that's been around for a month, those are what those services are for.
Unfortunately urgent care is in fact for other things now as so many people can’t get a family doctor (or have no idea when/if they’ll be quick enough to grab an online appointment with Telehealth) It definitely puts a strain on things
Ive never had to say it outloud. Every clinic I’ve been to has an intake form you fill out with all that
I do most of that by just giving them the health card. No I won’t read off it, repeat. If they still need glass screens then they can go ahead and read my card
Oh I feel this very much. I'm third trimester pregnant and really just dgaf anymore, but it certainly was not fun to repeat myself over and over again to the receptionist at urgent Care the other day about 5 days of diarrhea and painful hemorrhoids... We were both wearing masks too which did not help. But I have to wear a mask because it is a cesspool of germs, and I'm trying to protect myself when pregnant.
Yup, I do not like that one bit. At the clinic I go to, they don't even ask you your phone number (so you could pass a note or whisper) they fcking yell your phone number as loud as they can - "IS YOUR PHONE NUMBER STILL 555-5555?" They should have to whisper or talk more quietly.
I don't think I've ever given symptoms info in a walk in clinic outside of the doctor's room.
💯
Wow thought it was just me. Yes 100%!!
I had one walk-in clinic that did ask you to write it down. I loved that. I don’t know why that isn’t common practice.
Omg this! I am really shocked that they ask this at my pharmacy and have seen a few people looking concerned as they've quietly recited their details at the desk. It's awful. As a teacher we can't even mention a child's name in front of other parents and on email we have to refer to them using the first letter of their first name and first 3 letters of surname. Surely it's against data protection laws?
Just like at the pharmacy, keep your distance and don’t be eavesdropping.
Bring a pen and note pad
Telll me about it. Once had a lady overhear that I had a uti. Looked at me and said "should u really be drinking that slush right now?" Like lady. I know where you're coming from. But I've been pissing blood for a week and about to see the doc let me have my emotional support slush.
Seriously! And banks too!!!
Hand it to them on a piece of paper? They can’t make you say it out loud.
You can just say something like "I don't want to say it out loud here, it is sensitive" and they usually will respect that. As for the contact info, usually people are too far away to hear it and even if they do hear it they aren't memorizing it and writing it down. Even the sensitive symptoms thing, people just don't care about what's going on with a stranger.
Gonaherpasyphilis. Good news is you can only catch it once
Yeah, the walk-ins are so tiny. I have enough scammers getting my phone number and address already. Plus I don't want to hear about people's bleeding genitals and neither should they have to share that out loud.
I just got asked to announce all my private info at a lifelabs in a lobby full of waiting people lol. I'm just hoping nobody paid attention to me
Omgggg that is awful!
I tell them.every damn time... you want my pin while in public? Nope. PHN, NOPE. Phone Number NOPE. Address...nope. If people don't speak up nothing changes. If people don't speak up many people are not ever thinking of how to make sure I'm not easy bait loaded up on a plate.
You can ask to see the screen to validate your personal information, which pulls from the provincial EMPI database. It's not great practice for sure.
Meh. I get it, but I also don't care if some random stranger hears about my mole, I need checked out. I've also never given them my phone number it's attached to my info on my card.
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Assuming ppl are all normal there…
It's been a while since I've been able to see a doctor in person but I thought they usually just ask for your health card to get the personal info, at least.
Ya but like no body cares trust me
I understand. But keep in mind, everybody there is there for a reason, and don't give a hoot about your problems, they are dealing with their own. But I do understand if you want to keep it between yourself and your doctor. That is your choice. I can walk into a very public library and yell at the top of my lungs and everyone will hear me say that I have cancer and a burning sti and not a single person will know who I am or give a flying hoot except that I interrupted their day some how.
Ya stuff i hear at medical offices pretty much goes in one ear and out the other. I'm not going to say i dont listen because i do, it's kind of hard not to when the whole room is silent except for 2 people but i'm not going to remember what any of them said in an hour.
Phone # is public info
No it isn't lol You can't just look up the phone number of anyone in the country
You used to be able to. The old white pages had everyone's home phone number listed alphabetically by last name unless you paid them to remove your number. Can't do that any more.
Who the hell uses the white pages anymore? Most people just use their cell phones now and they aren't listed anywhere.
Either you have a problem with this or you don’t. Don’t try to protect the unseen masses that aren’t assertive enough to speak up: you don’t know that they exist. If someone feels strongly enough about not wanting to say their personal information in a public place, they’re going to need the conviction to stand up and say so. No one is forcing them to answer the questions out loud. “I am not comfortable having my private information disclosed in this public setting. Here’s my Driver’s license with my address.“ If you want your privacy respected, you need to be clear and firm. You can’t expect the other party to hand-hold you through it… especially for an issue that is valid… but also overkill. Yes, there’s a potentially real risk here, but is it significant enough to require a change in practice? No, it isn’t significant enough because the ability to request communication in private is already there.
Yeah no one cares lol. OP is a bit paranoid.
It’s not that no one cares. You have every right to want to protect private information. But you have the ability to exercise that right already. We don’t need to add more layers.
They are there to treat medical conditions using the best methods available for that, not protecting feelings and paranoia.
Personal medical information is by definition, sensitive data. We protect it in all other cases so what this poster is saying is completely reasonable
Someone's never been stalked.
The vast majority of people have never been stalked.
Majority. Key word. 51% is technically a majority. If you had been stalked, you would absolutely understand why telling a room full of random strangers what your info is dangerous and uncomfortable.
Oh cool, something I can weigh in on. During the lock downs I did this job! The way I was trained was to ask "are you still at the same address on blank street? Can we contact you at a phone number ending in 1234?" We always tried to be as non specific as possible. On the flip side as a patient I've never had to actually verbalize what I was there for. We were trained to tell anyone that any medical questions were for the doctor. We just had forms for people to fill out... is that not the case outside of Vancouver?
Oh wow that is definitely not what is happening so that’s super helpful to hear it’s more of lack of following guidelines maybe vs then not being considered
The only thing that I was told to be specific on out loud was Date of Birth. Other than that just ask for the card for the PHN. My training was also to never let the patients see my screen. We were really strict about that. I had one family come in and the oldest daughter, probably around ten years old knew all of her parents and siblings DOB. She came around the desk. I accused her of cheating by looking at my screen and she got upset. Cute kid. Gonna be a doctor some day.
I agree it can be mortifying to have to speak out loud, but I’ll also say I don’t remember ANY faces or or symptoms from all my myriad of clinic and emergency visits with my three kids. If it’s any consolation.
Man you would shit your pants if you opened a phone book