Receiving gifts: a conflict of interest discussion.

Just before the Christmas holidays, Iris was standing at the reception desk waiting to book a continuing-care appointment with Dr. Smith. In walked a deliveryman carrying 2 beautiful gift baskets. While the receptionist was signing for the basket, Iris asked the FedEx man if the gift was from a happy patient. “No,” he replied, “they’re both from the orthodontist down the road. I was told not to deliver the smaller basket next door until I delivered the larger one here. Dr. Smith sends the orthodontist a lot more patients and I am not to make the other dentist feel awkward.” “I didn’t know dentists got kickbacks?” replied Iris and added, “No wonder my daughter’s orthodontic treatment was so expensive!” “A lot of businesses do this at Christmas. Happy holidays to you!” replied the driver. “Happy holidays to you too!” Iris replied. “Can I speak with Dr. Smith,” Iris asked the receptionist. “Sorry Iris,” replied the receptionist, “he left early today for a late lunch and a basketball game with the orthodontist down the road.” Iris left the office without making the appointment, thinking “business indeed! I thought this was a professional office!”