Each of us has a name. For many of us, it was the name our parents gave to us. Others have nicknames they have elected to use. I know a few people who go by their middle name and still others may have legally changed their name for a variety of reasons (my favorite is a pharmacist who legally changed his first name to Rx—Rex, get it?).
We all have a name we prefer. Maybe many are not all that picky about the which is used. Me, I answer to just about anything. Really.
When I became a partner in my pharmacy, I became the third male owner, I found patients would address me about a third of the time by any of my real names (Mike, Michael, hey, you!). Frequently, patients would address me as one of my business partners names.
At one time worried about these de-personalized interactions with my patients. I would feel the need to be recognized and correct the patient. With time, however, I became adept and recognizing when someone was talking to me because I couldn’t count of the salutation to give me context.
Today, I answer to just about any name. Specifically, though, I am comfortable answering to Bernie, Bill, and Randy. I no longer spend time correcting patients. I have come to understand what was really going on. Each patient has “adopted” one of us as their pharmacist.
The patient has made a positive association with one of my past or present business partners. The fact that they recognize me as that person in proxy is a one of the highest forms of compliment that can be given. It means that I am being recognized both for what I have done, and for what my business has accomplished.
As a side note, however, I will take action if my paycheck doesn’t have my name on it. I have to draw the line somewhere!