Gloria Kubuanu, PA-C

I explained to Gloria that, due to multiple factors—including financial constraints—I can only manage two appointments per year for my specific condition. In response, she issued an ultimatum: either return in three months or find another provider. This raises a critical question: is it worse to deny care to someone who can’t afford more frequent visits, or to provide at least the minimal treatment they need? Many people share this predicament: they don’t qualify for financial help yet must choose between paying for insurance or affording medications. Although Gloria claimed to empathize, her empathy felt flat in light of the ultimatum. To improve, she needs to understand her patients’ struggles and collaborate with them rather than dictate their care.