I don't even know how to title this. I am an independent biller working for several mental health counselors. I work hourly and in addition to billing I do help with administrative tasks as I can.
One of the reasons I have this business is to set my own hours and be my own boss.
I have a new client, psychologist, who started in May. She is frequently ill. Tonight she texts me this series of messages:
8:32 pm Please cx my 3 pts tomorrow. Confirm w me that u got this. Thx.
8:42 pm Did u get this?
8:48 pm I need to know u got this & r taking care of it so I don't.
8:58 pm Since u haven't answered me I'll just do it myself.
8:59 pm Thx
Seems really demanding and aggressive to me. I was making dinner and having dinner with my husband. I did tell her when we met that I would help if she needed to cancel appts. But this is not good.
I need to know how to respond to her tomorrow when I call her about it. Or would you just recommend to ignore late night requests? I would stop what I am doing to make the three calls and make about $5 to $7 for my trouble?
I am flabbergasted by her tone. But let's say that the tone should be interpreted to be sweet and kind, then I would just tell her that I got her texts and sorry I was unable to help. She has been demanding in the past but not at this late hour. She has lupus. I don't know if that means that illness comes on her very suddenly. Maybe I should ask her that? Maybe I should set a fee for any work after 6pm?
We have a contract but it does not cover after hours. I am not a personal assistant.
I need some feedback. Thank you.
Barbara