For People Who Hate Waiting Rooms

Remember when doctors made house calls? I don't. During infirmities such as scarlet fever, pneumonia, concussions and stepped-on-broken-glass, no doctor ever came to me. But I've watched enough TV to understand that house calls were formerly an integral part of our nation's healthcare system.

If you were once able to gauge your doctor's bedside manner at your actual bedside, you probably miss the good old days. Unfortunately, I can't convince your doctor to go door-to-door. But if you live or work in Manhattan (or visit and get sick), consider an intriguing service: Sickday Medical House Calls.

"Sickday clients receive prompt medical attention in the comfort of their home, office, or hotel room. PAs spend an average of 30 to 40 minutes with each patient, listening, observing, and truly understanding their health needs. This personal attention assures accurate diagnosis and treatment plans."

For a flat fee of $250, you can avoid the snarky staff, the brutal waiting and the sickly patients. And, according to their site, many insurance plans will even reimburse you.

I have no business giving medical advice. So take it from Johanna, who was nursed back to health by Sickday last week.