Anonymous wrote:I judge everyone who smokes.

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

I judge everyone who smokes.

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?

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 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.)

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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?