Everyone knows everyone

Especially when you're from a smaller town.

Some examples (aka 6 degrees of separation):

J, one of our longtime RNs has a sick husband. We're chatting about him and I found out I worked with several docs in hubby's MD's practice. I even know some of their peculiar habits, like riding bicycles to work (one lives very close to the office).

One of our patients came from Saintarama to our rehab unit. People ask about him/her all the time, since patient comes in our place from time to time. (Hi, Zee! ) Patient visits them, but not as much (and the old coworkers are really jealous!)

Our boss is familiar with one of my docs. All I did was mention Dr. G's name and he diagnoses me. Nice. At least, I can keep a few things to myself. Besides, Dr. G. has known me forever. Dr. G. scared the bejeezus out of me recently when he/she asked, "Do you know what?" I was waiting for the "I'm retiring" speech. Thankfully, Dr. G. just told me I've been a patient more than half of my life.

Dr. G. forgot about seeing me in peds...must have just been doing research on those roaches or something.

Dahey had a party recently and invited all the geeks to our house. One has an MD relative, so I asked Dr. Specialist if he/she knew Dr. Miscellany. "Oh, I don't think Dr. Miscellany is (fill in specialty here)."

"Really?", I said, "I thought he/she was."

So what happens. Dr. Specialist's curiosity is piqued, and he/she heads to Google. "Well, I do know Dr. Miscellany was in xx practice. I know who trained him/her at xx university. He/she must be 60. Is your husband that old?" PA sitting next to Dr. Specialist is not amused (PA is 60+ and most of our patients enjoy his cameraderie).

Ahh, I love doctors! (tongue planted firmly in cheek)

Stay tuned...more excitement to come...