MILWAUKEE, WI—Downplaying requests to check his vital signs as “totally unnecessary,” primary care physician William Kinlaw recommended Wednesday that a coughing, feverish black patient “just go home and sleep it off.” “We’re dealing with a flood of people who have actual problems, so you shouldn’t come in unless it’s an emergency,” said Kinlaw, gesturing toward a waiting room filled with white patients. “I’d recommend changing your diet and making sure you’re drinking enough water. It’ll probably clear up by tomorrow, but if it lingers for a few weeks I’d start taking a few Tylenol after meals. Oh, and hot tea always helps.” At press time, hospital security had escorted the coughing patient off the premises.

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