Not 6+ months out why tf would I have to wait 6 months for a Dr’s appointment?? The only thing I schedule that far in advance is a holiday at a destination that takes longer than 5 hours to drive to.
I think this is the difference between people living in super populated areas, and more rural ones. I have no issue getting a close appointment in Ohio, but it’s much more difficult in Los Angeles (w/o going to the ER).
For immediate concerns that you don’t schedule if your primary care is busy you go to walk in clinics.
There’s options in those areas since they understand the need for them.
Yeah that’s the way to go. Not sure I knew that was an option at the time
In Germany for specialists it’s quite normal.
My dermatologist only makes appointments 3 to 6 months in advance. Same with my pulmonologist. I heard psychologist appointments are often enough between one and two years in advance (if you want to start a new therapy).
Vacation is another such thing. Some employers require you to plan your vacation time at the beginning of the year so they don’t end up with a whole department being gone at the same time. Of course I need to factor that into my calender then so I don’t put other appointments/promises in there.
Weddings and large birthday parties are also often announced and planned far ahead. I need to block that in my calender as well.
And so on.
I used to live like that, then I moved to a big city. Literally any event you want to go to is sold out six months to a year in advance. You have to make plans or you’ll never be able to attend anything. Even good restaurants are booked solid for 3 weeks. You either make reservations for next month, or you slip them $50 at the hostess station for a chance to eat, which is wasteful and douchey.