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taxis

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Started 6 months ago by gracie
Latest reply from Chef Wahoo

gracie

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I can't remember last time I took a cab. I have to have eye surgery on two different dates in Ballard. And they said I can't drive home. Told them I still have one good eye to see with and that's better than lots of drivers in Ballard.
I don't want to bother a neighbor so thought would just take a cab. #1 - is it cash only or can use credit/debit card? #2 - what is the going rate these days? (would be from Sunset Hill to close by Trader Joe's)

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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I'll give you the low-down if you tell me what the apostrophe is for.

Posted 6 months ago #
dsomers

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Gracie,

Check with the Dr office. Will they permit you to use a cab? When I have had surgery they would not let me do anything by myself. Cab, bus, etc. The issue was the anesthetic and the fact that every now and then someone is a bit loopy and ends up god knows where. They would only release me to a friend.

It might just be the reduced vision they are concerned about too. Check first though so you aren't caught.

By the way, what nights do you need the ride?

D

Posted 6 months ago #
phoo

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You can usually use a credit card. You can always call in advance and ask. I was very upset the last time I had to take a cab, so some things to keep in mind:

It is standard for the meter to run much faster any time the tires aren't moving. This means at traffic lights or in traffic. Yes, you pay the high "wait" fee when you hit a stop light.

I called several cab companies last time I needed one to see if I could schedule a pickup or arrival. Nope, they wouldn't do it. You just have to call right when you need it and hope you aren't too far down in queue.

When I did call the cab, I was LIED to by dispatch. They said they'd have a cab to me in 20 minutes, but the cab was not dispatched for 45 minutes. Yep, I saw it with my own eyes cause that cabbie got an earful when he finally arrived. Not his fault, but boy was I late (I had allowed an hour for a 20 minute trip).

Next time I use a cab I'll probably use Uber. It can be bad (read: expensive) for long distances, but I've heard nothing but good things about them otherwise. You order them from an app on your android phone. https://www.uber.com/cities/seattle#

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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Taxis are generally a logistical nightmare for this type of need.

If you need a ride, just say so.

Posted 6 months ago #
gracie

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GI, Oh did do the dreaded apostrophy, didn't I? I changed it.
And I did check with doctors about taxis. They said okay but no bus, no driving. It is the reduced vision, I'm sure. It kills me I can't just take myself because the distance isn't that far - it's day time and I'll just have a patch on the eye operated on.

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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I don't drive Gracie but I'm sure someone here would be more than happy to pick you up.

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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NOT ME!!! Get a Bus Pass.

Posted 6 months ago #
BuffaloHawk

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To bad SA doesn't still have the stroller since it sounded like a nice ride ;) This just got me thinking as to why neighborhood hospitals don't have a shuttle service.

Posted 6 months ago #
Mondoman

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They're probably worried about the lack of depth perception with just one eye. On the good side, you'll have an excuse to go about growling "Yarrrr!" at people.
Why not just lie to the doctor's office and drive yourself (I am of course assuming you're not getting general anesthesia, which can lead to temporary but weird effects on your brain, as Dave said above).

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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It looks like you are also in need of a bit of eye surgery Edog. Doc says no bus!

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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"This just got me thinking as to why neighborhood hospitals don't have a shuttle service."

Neither do Neighborhood bars, ty to the WSLCB for that genius decision. ;/

Posted 6 months ago #
leftcoastsuit

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If you have a smartphone there is a great app called Uber that gets you on-demand car service, reliable drivers, and credit card payment via the app. https://www.uber.com/cities/seattle

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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Fine she can walk! Whats with all you 47 percenters anyway! Always looking for something free. Free jazz, trash free parks, or free information.

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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stfu dog, you live for free.

Gracie, if you need a ride, say so, dammit.

Going once...

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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Thursday...

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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No, you stfu potty mouth!

Posted 6 months ago #
gracie

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Edog - they won't even let me just walk out. Someone has to come into office & get me. Trust me, I thought about it - like parking my car elsewhere, walk out afterwards & get in my car.
Thanks to the rest of you who offered. And unfortunately my phone does not have ability to go to aps (so need to upgrade phone).
The more you all talk about cabs more I'm thinking I'll have to break down and ask a neighbor. But if doesn't work out, watch out, I might just take one of you up on a ride!
And the dunb thing about it - the next day I have to go in for checkup & they said I could drive in. Go figure.
Surgeries are not until December, so like I said if doesn't work out with a neighbor, onederfullone might just take you up on it!

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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Won't let you walk? If this were a zombie film this is the part where I would run way, but make sure you were between the hoard and me as I exited the stage.

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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Not so dumb, Gracie, the eye drops for your examination will fade in a few hours, you'll be okay the next day.

The next day won't be a checkup, you'll be instructed on pre-op, post-op, but only if your eye checks out for surgery.

Just say if you need a ride, give me time to notify James ;-P

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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I find it odd that you don't drive, penny.
did you keep veering over to the left side of the road during your driving test? :)

seriously though, I know you have a kid(s) and wonder how you carted him around to all the places that kids go.
it's not like hillbilly-land is known for it's ease of walking around.

Posted 6 months ago #
gracie

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onederfullone - thanks so much. Make sure you have the Bentley all turned up too & James uniform is prestine (and a bottle of champagne inside would be nice)

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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Why do you find it odd GI?

I personally find it odd when people jump in a car to drive one block to the grocery store. When my kids were little I had a nice stroller and perfectly good legs.

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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Drinking after surgery? Bentley? Next Gracie will want Grey Poupon too!

Hey that reminds me...

My dog pooped today!

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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why do I find it odd? this is America--home of getting in your car for that 3 block errand!

I'm not judging you (well maybe a little, but I think more of you now).

I'm just amazed since I know how hard it is around here.

reminds me of a time when my kid was small and I cut my hand badly. I had to put the child in the stroller and walk over to Swedish Ballard for some stitches.

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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GI...

I lived in central London before I moved here. I had no need for a car there and saw no reason why I needed one here. The kids saw a lot more from that stroller than they would have done strapped into a car seat. Also, it's a great way of breaking the ice with people. You'd be surprised how many others walk around hillbilly land during the day.

Anyway, Mr. PG had/has a car :-)

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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and now your son drives, no?

do you ask him for rides to the mall? :)

I am impressed that you kept that attitude after all your time here. I'm sure that rubbed off on your kids in a positive way (more than watching a video from the back-seat anyway).

Posted 6 months ago #
BuffaloHawk

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Maybe you can barter by offering to clean a microwave for a ride home.

oneder - Get any new guns and Ted Nugent albums yesterday ? I didn't see you yesterday and figured the two of you where at the gun range ;)

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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My son is a big fan of walking/public transportation :-)

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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I rode the bus North of 85th once. I had to use the force three times, and bail my wookie out of jail.

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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Was that before or after you visited Centerfolds?

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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...and if so, wouldn't they just have shuttled you to your next destination in that Centerfolds van I see parked out front?

maybe they'd give gracie a lift if she did a little post-op dance.

Posted 6 months ago #
BuffaloHawk

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To keep my kid entertained in the car when we pass 85th I have her count discarded wine boxes.

GI - I wonder if the Centerfolds van will do a courtesy pick up at the hospital for a neighbor ?

Posted 6 months ago #
Edog

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No, it was a totally different day. That jerk face kid waving the sign for Little Casers by the QFC got in the way. Lets just say thats not how to sell a Wookie pizza!

Posted 6 months ago #
h2o_girl

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Gracie, I have taken cabs in the city many times and it's been totally fine 99% of the time. They are all supposed to accept credit cards - but I always tell the dispatcher I need one that does.

Good luck with your surgery!

To be honest I hope you take Oneder up on his offer - I love it when people on the forum help each other out. :)

Posted 6 months ago #
great idea

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just don't yell 'shotgun!' when you go for the front seat.

Posted 6 months ago #
gracie

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h20, that's what I love about My Ballard forum folks too. They help each other, give great advice (mostly!! :). Like couple of years ago one person needed help with rent and a yard sale was thrown. That's when I met many forum folks. And it is so sweet of Oneder to offer like that to a total stranger. But because surgeries in the morning that may mess things up with Oneder. Don't know if he works or not and hours working.

Posted 6 months ago #
pennygirl

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1der would probably be able to change his day around if you need a lift Gracie.

Posted 6 months ago #
gracie

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This truly amazes me the lengths one will go here. What a gracious group of folks. Thanks, PG

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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I would expect Gracie to yell 'shotgun', fwiw, she needs to ride home.

Oh, I see, that was a clever jab, it went way over my Bentley.

Gracie, what champagne would you prefer?

I'm kidding, James can't drink and drive. Ever.

It's just a ride I'm offering, it seems only Penny and watergirl get that.

If you don't yet possess my email addy, let me know, my schedule is some-what flexible.

Damn, my little forum voice tells me I need to look out for paparazzi too...

Gracie must be pretty famous ;-p

Posted 6 months ago #
phoo

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onederfullone: Watch out for her attack cat. You may be taken to your knees with the overwhelming cuteness.

Posted 6 months ago #
onederfullone

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sshhh....

I just got done telling Waldo that Pickles wouldn't be with Gracie then.

Dammit, I'm gonna need to pry him from under my gas pedal ;-/

Posted 6 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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Gracie, they do not have the right to tell you how to go home. I can see if you will not be "with it" to drive, but do not let them bully you. If you can walk out of their office that ends their "right" to be in charge. This sounds ludicrous.

But, I am nearby and would be happy to drive you. I admit to not having read this whole thread, so if someone else has offered, you have a choice!

Posted 6 months ago #
phoo

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I really would not recommend driving home. As Mondoman points out, your depth perception will be kaput and you don't have experience driving without it. I'd stick with one of the kind offers for a ride, or at worst hope a cab shows up.

Posted 6 months ago #
cloudblues

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Gracie, I'm also happy to give you a ride. I drive a little two-seater car but if you're not over 6'2", you'll fit! :) (Serious offer)

Posted 6 months ago #
Cate

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6'2"!! I always imagine gracie as being petite, like Pickles.

Posted 6 months ago #
racerX

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I haven't seen taxi in years... what a great show.

Posted 6 months ago #
dsomers

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Gracie, yet another offer for a ride if you need it. Warn me though or you could end up riding on my handlebars. D underscore s o m e r s at that email system with hot in its name.

D

Posted 6 months ago #
Nora Bell

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Looks like you've got plenty of kind ride offers, Gracie. But if you need to take a cab....
The dispatcher always tells you it's going to be 20 minutes. Always. I don't know why. But Orange Cab usually shows up in about 10. With rare exception. Keep the number to call them back if you're still waiting after 20. And, if you are using a card to pay let the dispatcher know.

Good luck! :-)

Posted 6 months ago #
Chef Wahoo

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Gracie, they do not have the right to tell you how to go home. I can see if you will not be "with it" to drive, but do not let them bully you. If you can walk out of their office that ends their "right" to be in charge. This sounds ludicrous.

Most surgical providers will not allow patients to take cabs (or drive, walk, or bus) home after a procedure, and that's included in the consent you sign when you check in. Most also require your ride to check in with you and stay on the premises during the procedure (and usually is verified by more than one staff member). If your ride isn't there, they won't do the surgery. And while a provider can't physically restrain you from leaving by yourself, they'd have to document that you left AMA, or Against Medical Advice. And that means that your insurance carrier can deny your claim, and you could be billed for the full amount of the surgery. And having acted AMA is not a designation anyone wants to have in their medical record.

Your depth perception will be off while you wear the patch. And depending on what type of sedation they use and how your body handles it, you might feel fine, or not fine at all. Some people have no memory of what went on while they were under conscious sedation, some remember EVERYTHING (either way, you'll be glad to have someone waiting to see you home safely). If the surgery requires a nerve block, your scalp might be numb, and you could look like you had a stroke for a day or three, until the block wears off. Generally, you are instructed not to drive, drink alcohol, or sign any legal documents for 24° after your surgery. But I think you said you're allowed to drive to your follow-up the next day, so hopefully that means the drugs they intend to use will be out of your system. And that you don't have to wear the patch until you see your surgeon, because they often want you to leave it on, and they take it off for you.

Posted 6 months ago #
RichY

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What Chef Wahoo said, also when I had eye surgery, I had a follow-up the next day, told my wife that I would go alone - my surgeon laughed. Next day I was still not able to see or 'navigate' properly and my wife drove me.

BTW I was awake and having a conversation with the surgeon during the procedure, but the drugs they used made me not care about the 3 Novocain shots in my eye and the slicing my eye open , and yes I still remember the procedure well.

Posted 6 months ago #
Mondoman

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Come on, folks, some of us have phobias about eye procedures! No need to get all "Saw" gruesome here.

Posted 6 months ago #
RichY

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Sorry Mondoman, My point was I was awake and thought I was aware, but was not really for a full day after.

It was worth it and not as scary or bad as it sounds, if you are in need – do it.

Posted 6 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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I certainly don't agree with driving while under the influence-- any drug. What should be pointed out is that any contract is between 2 parties which means you can add, change, delete any pre-written page put before you to sign. Most people forget this, especially in medical facilities. How many of you sign that you agree to your doctor's treatment before you ever step into the office? I bet most do. do you really want to sign on the way INTO the dr office? It's just more cost efficient for them to have you do so. I never do, and in fact change "agree to" to "will consider" Always.

I have never read in my insurance that business about having to sign the consent as prepared. I did have a procedure done last year after reading that I needed to have someone drive me home. Again, I signed that I would not drive myself, and took 2 busses home from Madison St. I was certainly fine.

Posted 6 months ago #
Chef Wahoo

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This is getting off-topic, but at the hospitals I've worked at, patients were not allowed to change or cross out anything on a consent form. If they did, we declined to do the procedure.

Edited to add:

I have never read in my insurance that business about having to sign the consent as prepared.

I'd be surprised if your insurance carrier said such a thing, but they can definitely deny a claim when a patient leaves AMA. That, I can promise you.

Posted 6 months ago #
RichY

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but they can definitely deny a claim when a patient leaves AMA. That, I can promise you.

That is an Urban Myth
http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2012/07/02/bise0705.htm
http://drportnay.blogspot.com/2012/03/not-true-leaving-hospital-ama-against.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22331399

How many of you sign that you agree to your doctor's treatment before you ever step into the office? I bet most do.

Never have I seen an agreement for treatment before having seen the Dr. - Children are different - you need that doc if you are caring for children that are not your own.

Posted 6 months ago #
treehugger

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On topic: Gracie - I am also happy to drive you.

Off topic : SA - you are welcome to mark up the forms of a service provider - just as they are welcome to refuse to provide that service if you mark up their forms... which in my experience, they usually do. It has to do with who has the power... you want something from them, you usually have to agree to their terms. Their terms often are there to protect them. Such is the case post surgery/anesthesia, although a less cynical person would say those terms are there to protect the patient.

Posted 6 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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Rich, every single time I see a therapist or doctor at swedish, they ask me to sign such a form. I have only seen this here in Seattle at Swedish. The first time, I took the form with me into the dr office and when the front desk realized they did not get it back they came looking for me. So, I pointed out that I figured it was something I would be signing when the doctor and I spoke. Might you have signed one without knowing?

Posted 6 months ago #
RichY

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Interesting SA, I go to Swedish and the only form I have signed is the HIPAA release, so they can leave a phone message or talk to my wife, I have in the past signed an informed consent prior to a procedure, but the Doctor goes over that with me 1st.

Posted 6 months ago #
Ernie

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SA, of course you can question any request made by your medical provider, but when it comes to service animals, no questions are allowed!

Posted 6 months ago #

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