IT WAS gratifying to learn lately that hospitals are trying to cut waiting time. But a recent experience I had revealed a curious reason for an unnecessary delay.

In January, I went for my appointment at a specialist clinic in a restructured hospital. While I was on time, the doctor was 55 minutes late. As my examination ended, I asked her why she was late.

She replied that she was at a meeting and did not know she had patients waiting, until she was alerted by her nurse. The nurse herself did not know the doctor was unaware of my appointment until I complained about the lengthy wait.