We all get to a point in our lives where health moves up the list of priorities. I remember getting what I thought was a full physical when I was in my early 30s, only to be told by the doctor that certain uncomfortable procedures weren’t done until I was 40 (like how non-specific I’m being?). Well, despite my efforts to the contrary, that seems to be the age I’m approaching and that means fun things like blood tests and organizations like LifeLabs Medical Laboratory Services.
THE ORDER:
After a brief visit to a local doctor, I was directed to LifeLabs, a biomedical facility in British Columbia. I’m sure there are places much like this across North America – a doctor’s office-looking facility that takes your blood, checks your vitals and sends the results off to your physician. I stopped in to the office at 11:30am expecting a long line but found that I was the only one there. The receptionist/nurse/one-woman-show took my information and immediately directed me to the “blood room” (that’s not really the room’s name, but that’s what they focus on in there). It didn’t take long before I was directed to an EMG test room. I don’t know what it is anymore than I did before I went in the room but the seven wires attached to various parts of my body were a nice surprise. A few moments later, a shirt put back on and I’m out the door – LifeLabs done.
THE SERVICE:
I guess what would be important is how you define “service.” Was I in and out in a timely manner? Yes. Did I feel the job was done adequately and professionally? Yes. Was there any human connection or feeling that I wasn’t cattle being pushed through a factory? Um, no. From the moment I walked in, the nurse didn’t make any eye contact with me whatsoever, nor did she make me feel comfortable in what is a pretty uncomfortable environment. I was dealing with sharp things (needles) and leaving a part of me I’d grown quite fond of (my blood). She even looked at the clock the moment I arrived….I do so love to feel wanted. Once directed to the 1st room and rushed through a bloodletting, she muttered something at me and left the room. I think she wanted me to follow her but I couldn’t tell if she was talking to me, at me or at the wall. My only hint was when she returned to give me the “Well?” look. My response at the awkward experience was humour (I can be charming dammit) which did crack her stern facade but didn’t inspire her to comment or even connect with me. Tough crowd.
THE CONCLUSION: Booty Call – If I don’t have anything else better going on, I’ll stop by. I left with a little less blood in my system and lot more desire for a relationship that mattered. I’d give you a lower rating but I have a feeling I’m going to need you in my life again. Might as well leave the door open.
Service Rating System:
Friend Zone – I just don’t like you in “that way.”
Booty Call – If I don’t have anything else better going on, I’ll stop by
2nd Date – I’ll give you a second chance.
Going steady – This could be the beginning of something major.
