Dallas doc is voice of reason at Ebola hospital
DALLAS — In addition to "deliverer of babies," you can now add this title to Dr. John Bertrand's resume: Voice of Reason.
Bertrand is a veteran obstetrician who has offices both right across the street and inside the Texas Health Presbyterian complex in Northeast Dallas where the first person ever diagnosed with Ebola in the U.S. is now receiving care.
This is what Bertrand said on the phone Wednesday while reassuring a patient's husband who is worried about the Ebola scare:
"I just have total trust in them in relaying to you that you're safe to come for your appointment," the doctor said.
Bertrand saw more than 20 patients Wednesday morning, and he said every one of them asked him about Ebola.
"My brother, last night, was begging me to change hospitals," said mother-to-be Cheree Goodall.
Bertrand worked hard to ease fears.
"It gives us a chance to reassure them that, 'Yes, it is safe.' We're following all the protocols, and you and your baby should be totally and entirely safe," he said.
Patients armed with a little knowledge about the low risks of contracting Ebola have not been canceling their appointments.
"I mean, I was shocked, but after that wore off ... I love this hospital," Goodall said. "All my doctors are here, and I have confidence that they know what they're doing."
Bertrand said he will help any patient find a new doctor at another hospital if that's what the family wants.
So far, that hasn't happened.
His patients look at the incredibly low risk of getting Ebola versus the risk of leaving a doctor they like — and they've been deciding to stick it out.