Picture this – you’re at a medical clinic for an appointment with a reputed doctor. The first time you visited, the clinical staff was friendly, warm, and caring. You were impressed with the initial welcoming encounter. But, when you returned for your follow-up appointment, you saw a different side to the same cheerful staff. One of them wore a sour and grumpy expression, didn’t even lift her head to look at you in the face, and answered your queries nonchalantly. Would you be shocked and disappointed? 

I bet you would be, just like my friend who experienced this firsthand. She tried asking the receptionist if she was alright, but the response was a silent nod. It’s not just about one bad experience, but also about the fact that such unpleasant behavior can drive patients away from the clinic. 

This begs the question – should grumpy, sulky, and disgruntled people be front desk personnel? A good front desk receptionist is energetic, friendly, and provides excellent customer service, and builds relationships. She assists walk-in clients, schedules client appointments, answers phone lines, and helps clients with their questions and issues. 

It’s not just about being polite and courteous, but also about providing a sense of comfort and reassurance to patients already dealing with health issues. A smiling and friendly reception is probably the first medicine administered to the patient. Instead, imagine being given a dose of quinine when you don’t need or deserve it! 

So, what do we do when faced with such unpleasantness? Do we report it to the doctor or just let it slide? The decision is up to us, as patients, but we should not have to put up with unprofessional behavior, especially when we are paying for the service. 

Let’s pull up our socks and bring this matter to light. By reporting such chilly and inhospitable conduct, we can help clinics improve their services and build lasting relationships with their patients. After all, a good front desk receptionist is the first step towards a positive and successful treatment.