Can I Use Connections to Jump the Line for a Specialist?

October 3, 2020

Illustration by Tomi Um

The Ethicist

Is It OK to Use Connections to Jump the Line for a Specialist?

The magazine’s Ethicist columnist on using your connections to get in to see a doctor months before anyone else can — and more.

By Kwame Anthony Appiah

Over the past few years, my sister-in-law has experienced unusual problems with her eyesight for which she has seen several ophthalmologists and neurologists, some at private practices and others at major medical centers. There has been no consistency in the diagnoses and even less clarity in recommended treatments or medications. The condition seems to be getting worse and more complicated with time.

My sister-in-law was recently advised to call a doctor whom many believe to be the leading authority in neuro-ophthalmology. Not surprisingly, the first available appointment was four months out. She is distraught.

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I have spent my life eschewing preferential treatment that might arise from anything other than my own hard work. But in this case, I am so conflicted. A very dear friend happens to be a close colleague of this physician. I know that he could easily get my sister-in-law in to see the doctor tomorrow if I asked.

So, what am I to do? I cannot stand seeing my sister-in-law literally writhe with anxiety. Her tears echo mine. Her future is up in the air. But so, too, seem to be my lifelong principles. Which response is the best one for both of us?

Read the Ethicist’s response here.

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