Interesting experience at the dentist, with #zentensivist and #healthpolicy lessons.
Had a cleaning a couple weeks ago, she said I had a small cavity worth filling. I went back today to do that.
1/5

She pokes around, makes eyebrows, says let me go look at that X-ray again.
Pokes around some more, pauses for a moment.
“Let’s just leave it alone and watch it.”
2/

I’m de facto happy but also curious about the reasoning. She explains. It makes sense (but not quite enough for me to relate it here).
On my way out I ask her if there’s a billing code for her careful consideration.
Nope. You only get paid if you do stuff.
3/

Imagine the conscious + subconscious influences here:
To face potential embarrassment of having made someone come in “for nothing.”
To forgo payment for time you’ve already spent/dedicated.
When the judgment call is borderline, these things make a difference.
4/

And yet she stays her hand/drill.
Feel inspired to always be so thoughtful in my own clinical decisions.
And also disappointed as ever in what is considered a worthwhile service in “fee-for-service.“
5/5