I had a horrible experience seeking care at a hospital several years ago.

I went into the ER after a day of suffering with a rapid heart rate and constant arrhythmia.

As I was treated there, I was asked repeatedly if I had a cocaine habit.

“No,” I said, “but I have a long history of heart issues.”

A few minutes later someone new would enter my cubicle and ask me the same question.

“It’s okay, you can tell us if you are using cocaine.”

“I’m not using cocaine!” I’d say once again.

An hour later I walked out of the hospital with the same condition and no answers or aid.

The next day my primary care physician called and said, “So, did you start the potassium supplements yet?”

“What?” I stammered.

“The potassium supplements! The blood drawn at the hospital found your potassium level abnormally low. Did you start the medication yet? It’s critical that you do!”

“I don’t know anything about this,” I replied.

The hospital staff, so convinced I was lying about my non-existent drug habit, failed to pay attention to my blood work results and let me walk about the hospital sick and untreated.

Yes, this needs to change.