DEAR DR. GOTT: I have a great doctor whom I respect a great deal. He got me back on track after my thyroid wasn’t producing enough hormones and he also helped get my blood pressure and cholesterol under control. So, my question is to ask if it is okay to get a card and gift certificate for him during the holidays.
I just want to show my appreciation for his care and dedication to the profession.
DEAR READER: This is a topic of great diversity and there are different schools of thought on the subject.
The practice of patients giving gifts to a physician is not new; however, I see nothing wrong with a person presenting an unsolicited gift to his or her physician. There’s always the thought that a gift can influence a health care provider in ways that run against good medical care. And, giving a gift for the purpose of influencing that physician is unethical and constitutes a bribe; however, the tone of your letter is, to me, extremely sincere. You are appreciative for several acts of good judgment. You have what appears to be a knowledgeable physician who was able to bring several medical conditions under control, and in my opinion you really lucked out, given the number of letters I received from patients frustrated with their physicians’ lack of care, knowledge or willingness.
You always run the risk your physician will decline to receive the gift, indicating it is against his standards. This could be hurtful and you must be prepared for such a happening. Then again, he might thank you, be touched by the gesture, and enjoy the gift certificate.
I may be opening a can of worms here but living in a small community and, having the true blessing of so many wonderful patients, I have been the recipient of home-made breads, cider, cookies, hand-dipped pecans, and more. I have always felt honored to be remembered around the holidays. And, the cards that accompany the gifts contain such moving messages that I could never decline to accept such a statement of appreciation.
I recommend you speak with his receptionist, secretary, office manager or other individual in the office with whom you feel comfortable enough to inquire about the office policy of gift giving. You will know quickly enough whether you are on the right track or not. While his office manager or receptionist might spill the beans before the holiday season and ruin the surprise, you can then proceed accordingly. If the idea is frowned upon, simply send a card expressing your gratitude for the expert care you have received in the past.
Readers who may have one or more of the conditions you mentioned or are interesting in learning more about them can order my Health Reports “The Thyroid Gland”, “Hypertension” and “Understanding Cholesterol” by sending a self-addressed stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 (per report) US check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039-0433. Be sure to mention the title(s) when writing or print out an order form from my website www.AskDrGottMD.com.
