My first impression of the medical field was my Grandfather; who was a general practitioner in a small town in South Georgia. In fact, for a number of years he was the only physician for our little rural town. He did a little of everything, worked every day of the week and saw many patients in their homes. My father learned how to drive by sitting on phone books driving my grandfather to treat sick patients in their homes. Everyone in town knew my grandparents’ phone number, well let’s be honest, it was a party line for many of those years. Regardless, everyone knew where to find Doc Sams! I remember one rare afternoon my grandfather was able to pick me up from school. On the drive home, we were pulled over by a police officer who informed him there was an emergency at the hospital. We flew through town, following the police officer. That is certainly a memory I will never forget!
Granddaddy loved his job, loved helping patients and loved his community. Looking up to him, I knew early on I wanted to be in the health field. Audiology has allowed me to help patients continue their relationships with their family. Now, almost two decades into my career, I have seen a huge shift in healthcare. Appointments are rushed, health decisions are often driven by insurance, and the personal care I saw my Grandfather give is rare to find.
When asked what I love most about my job, I always reply – the relationship I forge with my patients and of course helping them hear better. Susan Timna and I created Expert Hearing because we want to offer a personalized solution with state-of-the-art care. Our tag line “your concierge solution,” is intended to describe the level of care and personal attention we provide. The best part is we offer this service with NO monthly fee. Our goal is to give patients the opportunity to receive personalized attention but not at a high price point.
Longer appointment times allow me to spend time with each patient. After-hours phone and text service are always available. Best of all, much like Granddaddy was able to offer, we can make home visits if needed. The important misconception Dr. Timna and I want the community to know is that there is no monthly fee or excessive cost charged to our patients for services such as these.
I know the relationships I form with my patients and their families are reminiscent to my Granddaddy’s values as a practitioner. I am proud to know that his commitment and personal attention to care is being carried down by his granddaughter.
