Mercy Matters. Mathew N. Schmalz

checked into Urgent Care close to 8:00 p.m., right before closing time. I showed my proof of insurance and paid the copay.

      The waiting room was set up more for children—there were puzzles and storybooks with pictures of giraffes, elephants, and pandas.

      I didn’t have to wait long—the waiting room was almost empty.

      First, a nurse practitioner saw me and took my blood pressure—it was very low. Sure sign of shock I thought.

      Then came the doctor.