Didn't see this coming; before my trip last week I called my GP to confirm an appointment. Call went direct to a VM system advising that for doctor "x" - my doc - callers were to stay on the line. For all other doctors they were to leave a msg. I couldn't get an answer all day after several calls...
Next day I call the clinic number again and an auto attendant advises that the number is now out of service and to re-dial a different number, which I do; that one re-directs the caller to some place over on Hillside Ave - one where the auto attendant does not answer so the call just rings and rings and rings. I think "WTH?"
So I physically go to the clinic the next day and there is a hand-written note taped to the door advising that Dr "x" new phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxxx. Huh? So I dial that one and get another VM system this time with a recorded msg I recognise as my doc's voice. I leave a msg which he actually returns while I'm back east while our plane is taxiing to a stop on the runway in TO. Confirms the appointment for today. Whew! All rather odd though...
So the story is his three partners all marched over to Hillside Avenue all right - presumably they were offered some $ incentive, perhaps cheap office lease rates - and set up their new practice in new medical offices provided by.....Walmart.
My GP refused point blank I gather because there is no private entry into the "Walmart" medical offices, meaning it seems that you walk through or past or around the grocery aisle to access the medical offices which was a no-go for him. So now the 'system' is apparently competing for scarce medical professionals with the Walmart's of the world.
Edited by AllseeingEye, 15 February 2023 - 05:26 PM.