Zach waited in the hall outside his college medical office. At 18 years old, he had never seen anyone but his family doctor in his hometown. His scholarship and new college insurance required a full physical exam before allowing the young soccer star to play. He had missed the chance to get it done before leaving home. Fortunately the college also had a good medical program, and he was able to book the last appointment before the weekend. So here he was, all alone in a strange city, about to have his body poked and prodded by a stranger.
“Zach? I’m Grant, and I’ll be doing your exam today. Come in.” – a young man said from the door behind Zach. He looked up at the smiling, handsome man in scrubs. Grant was not much older than Zach, no older than 24. He followed him down the quiet hall. Zach thought he looked young for a doctor, but it was a teaching school. In the exam room, Grant made the typical small talk – how did he like his classes, what sport he played. And then slid into the more personal questions – health, hygiene, drinking, sex. Ticking everything off on Zach’s charts.