To the Editor:

When I went for my annual physical examination this year, I was surprised to learn that the procedure had been changed by Medicare and that my laboratory analysis (“blood work”) could not be done prior to my examination by the doctor, but it must be done afterwards. This means that during my time with the doctor, he did not have this information to discuss with me, but he had to review the laboratory analysis at a later time.

It seems to me that it is better for the doctor to have all information about the patient on hand at the time of their face-to-face meeting. It is my feeling that the doctors would prefer this procedure rather than the new requirements imposed upon them.

Let me hasten to add that I appreciate my doctor and his staff and the very excellent treatment I have always received.

LUTHER JOSHUA DAVIS JR.
Washington