Dr. Bryan James Beattie

I am extremely disappointed with the treatment my father received during his recent hospital visit. He arrived by ambulance in severe pain, weak, barely able to keep his eyes open, and was visibly moaning and struggling. Instead of showing compassion or concern, the doctor immediately questioned him in a dismissive and accusatory way, asking “what’s really going on” and implying he was under the influence of drugs. My father has serious medical conditions, and his symptoms were very real. Rather than properly addressing his pain, the doctor focused on criticizing him for not being able to keep his eyes open, even stating that people who are truly in pain can do so. This was incredibly insensitive and unprofessional. Before discharge, my father clearly stated he did not feel comfortable going home because he was still in significant pain. The doctor responded by saying he would only provide more pain medication if my father could keep his eyes open — which felt dismissive and punitive… rather than medically supportive. Patients deserve to be treated with dignity, compassion, and without assumptions or judgment. Pain presents differently for everyone, especially for someone already dealing with serious health issues. This experience left our family feeling unheard, disrespected, and concerned about the level of care provided. I hope this review encourages better bedside manner, more empathy, and more careful assessment of patients who come in vulnerable and suffering.