Viva the Belgian medical system

Spent half a day in the hospital for fixing the thumb. Not that the news was that super, but I came out of the hospital with a very good feeling.
My appointment with the doctor was punctual. First his assistante, then the orthopedist who first didn't have a clue what it could be. 'Very rare place to have injuries", he said. "For safety, let's take some X-rays". Same floor. After half an hour this was done. I asked when I could come back for the results, but I could stay for immediate feedback. (OK, the doctor knew I was leaving for an expedition, but still)
Another half an hour later I saw the doctor back. "Age, beginning of artrosis. Can you still cancel your expedition?". He was trying to be funny. "Can this be cured?". "No madam, but we can take away the pain with some medicine and I'll subscribe you a brace". "But I cannot wear a brace, I need to move my hand and fingers". "No problem, it's a special one, made of silicone. You can go upstaires, have a moule made and next Friday, you can pick it up".
Ready to go and luckily we live in Belgium was all I can think of, when I left the hospital more than 3 hours later.