Do you judge your doctor if they're a smoker?

[Anonymous]

I just switched doctors and had my first appointment with the new doctor yesterday, and was surprised to discover she was a smoker (could smell it on her clothes, in her office, etc.) She was completely competent and clearly very good at her job, but for the whole appointment that's all I could think about. I just need to get over this, right?

[Anonymous]

I'm not saying it's right, but I would judge a smoker doctor.

[Anonymous]

I wouldn't be able to get over it. And I'm pretty chunky, so I am sure plenty of people judge me for being fat. But I'm okay judging a smoking doctor who makes it obvious.

If I can smell it, no way. If I couldn't tell, then I wouldn't know.

[Anonymous]

I don't think I'd want a doctor with a "why bother" attitude towards common sense health precautions.

[Anonymous]

Are you certain it wasn't thirdhand smoke clinging to her clothes? Maybe your doctor's spouse smokes, or maybe she'd been visiting a smoker parent. To answer your question, I'm not a judgy person but would think that a smoker doctor should have more willpower and drive to quit.

[Anonymous]

I'm nearly positive it wasn't 'third hand'. The smell was overwhelming on her clothes (doctor's coat) and in her office. I really liked her, but I'm having a tough time getting over this one.

[Anonymous]

I went to see a psychologist and it turned out he was a smoker. Couldn't really concentrate on the session as I can't stand the smell of smoke. That was the end. I wouldn't see a doctor of any kind who smokes - partly because I find the smell of cigarette smoke revolting when coming off people's breath and clothes and partly because I can't really take someone seriously if they are trying to help me get healthy while they are themselves are dealing with an unhealthy addiction that is slowly killing them.

[Anonymous]

It wouldn't bother me. I'm sure the amount of alcohol I drink is doing just as much damage to me as smoking is to them. To each their own.

[Anonymous]

I'd spend the whole appointment wondering if doc were really paying attention or if she wanted me diagnosed and out of her office so she could go light up.

[Anonymous]

I just can't stand that smell and that would be reason enough for me to switch.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I just can't stand that smell and that would be reason enough for me to switch.

This would be my issue.

Smoking is an addiction and a very powerful one at that. Many smokers struggle over and over to quit. So definitely compassion but no judgement.

(Obama was a smoker too. Not sure if he's quit for good.)

[Anonymous]

I wouldn't judge a doctor that smoked a joint once in a blue moon, but if they were a regular smoker, I would not want to be their patient. Ditto for weight - I wouldn't judge a doctor that's a little pudgy or thick, but if they're severely obese, I'd also find another doctor.

I know that doctors are humans like all of us and have normal human failings - but I would want someone who sets a reasonable example.

[Anonymous]

I would totally judge my doctor for being a smoker or obese. If you can't take care of yourself, then how can you take care of me?

[Anonymous]

I judge everyone who smokes.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I judge everyone who smokes.

Ha! I was about to post the exact same thing.