The Waiting Room

Jo and Stig start with a short reflection on podcasting so far then they reflect on how we can support people who find themselves as they wait in the timeless zone that can open up in healthcare when waiting for a diagnosis, outcomes of treatment, a bed, a taxi home, an imminent death, a clarity about what next. The recognition of the experience of these liminal or limbo states means listening carefully and acknowledging the frustrations, pain or despair that is unique to each person. Jo feels this most acutely in the Emergency Department where there is little privacy and often great vulnerability. There are no quick fixes and no easy responses - powerlessness can be a feeling that we also experience. We look forward to our guest list for next year and offer an open invite to fill the remaining slots.