The Availability of Mexicans' Physicians

   I’ve previously taken note of Mexican characteristics that differ from those in the US. I now want to add another that is both quite pleasant and somewhat curious. In the States, indeed, in all the cities I have lived in, when you have a medical emergency your physician, certainly if you are a regular patient, will somehow “squeeze you in” at least to initiate the care you might need. Thank goodness for that. However, if your problem is not urgent or you just want a check-up of some sort, the appointment you will get is likely to be many days or even some weeks in the future. Successful doctors are busy with a parade of patients marching into their offices, not infrequently adding extensive periods in their waiting rooms. Successful doctors are busy.
   The system is different in Mexico, at least in my admittedly limited experience. If you want to see your physician tomorrow, a weekday, presumably, you are likely to get an appointment, even if your medical need is not urgent; if not then, surely the next day. Moreover, this is the case not for doctors who have to scrounge for “business,” but for those who are well established, successful.

   I don’t really understand how physicians manage that feat: be open to new appointments in the very proximate future and stay busy with a thriving practice. Somebody let me know how that is accomplished.