“This is just a virus,” says the busy doctor as he rushes his pen across the chart, not even looking up to make eye contact. No time. Patients waiting. “You can try this antibiotic if it doesn’t go away in the next few days, but this is typically the rash that occurs at the end of this virus strain.” Hands chart to nurse. “Looks good, mom.” (Mom is the safe word, that way you don’t actually have to know anyone’s name. Smart. Very smart.)
