Dr. Bevin Hamlet has been my family doctor for approximately 30 years. Today, he returned my call regarding my request for a requisition for my first pregnancy ultrasound, which is scheduled for October 9, when I will be 10 weeks pregnant.
During the phone call, Dr. Hamlet raised his voice and questioned why I was requesting a requisition when he had not previously provided me with one. He told me that I should not be asking him for a requisition and that, if I wanted to have my ultrasound, I should instead go to the hospital and obtain one there.
During the conversation, Dr. Hamlet also stated that I was "threatening to have an abortion." This statement was completely unrelated to what I was asking for. I was simply requesting a requisition for my first ultrasound at 10 weeks of pregnancy. I did not make any statement threatening or indicating that I intended to have an abortion.
He continued to raise his voice and told me that "that's not how it works" and that he would be the one to determine what he felt was necessary. When I attempted to explain my concerns, he repeatedly spoke over me and then demanded that I "let him finish" speaking and not speak over him.
At the conclusion of the call, Dr. Hamlet advised me that he would not provide me with a requisition and told me to go elsewhere to obtain one for my first ultrasound.
I am extremely distressed by the way this interaction occurred, particularly given that I am currently pregnant and was simply trying to obtain appropriate prenatal care. As a result of the distress caused by this conversation, I am now at the hospital at approximately 10:00 p.m. experiencing a severe anxiety episode and stomach cramps. I am frightened and concerned for both my own well-being and the well-being of my unborn child.
I find the manner in which this interaction was handled deeply upsetting and unacceptable. I am particularly concerned that a straightforward request regarding my prenatal care escalated into a conversation in which I felt shouted at, dismissed, and accused of something I did not say. read more