"Project C.A.R.E."

"Guinea Pigs"

Opening Act

Scene opens at the C.A.R.E. center, interior, daytime. Pan in to show the waiting room is starting to shape up now with chairs and tables, magazines, books, puzzles, and various other 'doctor's office' items. There is a 55 gallon fish tank in the corner with pumping water in it, but no fish yet. There is now a front desk and it is taking shape with places for charts and files. There is carpeting on the floor now and bright pattern wall paper on the walls with center border trim. Pan to a walkway from the back of the Clinic and show Doug Ross come into the frame, carrying a large box in his arms. He is wearing a sweatshirt and a pair of blue jeans with tennis shoes. The center is not open, so, he is dressed for labor work still left to do. He places the box on the counter of the front desk and rips it open. Carefully, he lifts out a computer monitor and starts unpacking the rest of the box, fumbling around to be sure he has all the pieces he needs to reassemble it. He is so engrossed in his work, he does not hear Mark Greene come through the front doors and into the clinic with him. Cut to show Mark coming in carrying another box. This box is not like the computer box...it is longer...and flatter. Mark brings the box in and sets it on the counter just even with Doug's chest. Mark is wearing a t-shirt and a jacket and blue jeans as well.

Mark (motions to the computer):
Nice one?

Doug (doesn't look at Mark, stays focused on his work):
Looks like it.

Mark (chuckles):
Would you know?

Doug (chuckles with him):
No! But, I could ask my son. He'd know.

Mark (shakes his head):
Incredible, isnt it? That an eleven year old knows more about computers than we do?

Doug (working with a computer cable):
Well, they start them in Kindergarten now. Even Tatchie knows more about this thing than I do!
(tosses the connector onto the counter)
I'll get Scott to come down here and hook it up!
(looks up at Mark)
What's in here?
(taps the top of the box)

Mark (grabs a box flap):
I have no idea! Let's open it up and find out!

Doug (helps him pull the box open):
Like Christmas around here...

Mark (eyes bright):
Better! We're getting toys...not socks and underwear!

Doug (starts pulling things out of the box):
Hey! The good stuff! Stethescopes...BP kits...ear scans, scopes...

Mark (mock voice):
All the things to poke and prod you with, my dear!

Doug (chuckles):
Yeah, we can look in your eyes, your ears, your nose, and up your....

Mark (cuts him off):
Exactly!
(chuckles)
Won't be long now!

Doug (shakes his head):
Open house is what? Two weeks?

Mark (nods):
I think so. Morganstern is holding his press conference the end of this week. We should get pretty good coverage for this.

Doug (chuckles):
Should I get a haircut?

Mark (smirks):
No, just be sure you shave.
(Both laugh)

Their talk is interrupted by a thumping noise up overhead. Both look at the ceiling and follow the sound of several more thumps.

Mark:
You suppose he needs help up there?

Doug (devilishly):
Depends on what he's doing!

Mark (smirks):
Let's ASSUME he is moving furniture...should we go help him?

Doug (starts for the doorway connecting to the second floor):
I think we should at least KNOCK first!

Mark (rips open the door and calls up the steps):
Carter! You OK up there?

Carter (calls down the steps off camera):
Yeah!

Mark (still calling up the steps):
You want some help?

Carter (calls down the steps):
Sure!

Doug and Mark go up the steps. Cut to the top to show them stepping into Carter's apartment. It is now looking like someone lives there with boxes and furniture scattered about the room. Pan to focus on Carter, in the middle of the floor, with a king sized headboard on top of him. Carter is dressed in blue jeans and t-shirt for moving just like Doug and Mark.

Mark (reaching to lift the headboard off him):
Let me help you with that, Carter!

Doug and Mark lift the headboard and Carter stands up. The three of them connect the headboard to the frame of a waterbed. Carter stands staring down at the plastic water mattress, flat against the walls of the bed.

Doug:
I guess we can expect a huge first water bill, huh?

Carter (shakes his head):
It really doesn't use that much water. I gotta find a hose that will reach...

Mark (teasing tone...to Doug):
A common problem of young men these days...
(Carter gives him a sarcastic smirk)
Sorry! I couldn't resist.

Doug (chuckles):
You left yourself wide open, Carter. Good to see your old self coming back, Mark!

Mark:
It was bound to happen sooner or later.

They are interrupted by a buzzer sound from the first floor. Mark reaches over to the intercom and pushes the 'talk' button.

Mark:
Yes, who is it?

Man:
Delivery!

Mark:
I'll be right down!

Mark goes quickly down the steps and disappears from the frame. Focus on Doug as he looks around the room at some of Carter's belongings. None of it is cheap. And Doug is in awe of some of it.

Doug:
Geez, Carter! All this good stuff in the middle of Slum Lord Alley? You better be investing in a security system!

Carter:
The building is pretty secure. I already checked it out.

Doug:
Still, you might want to get a Doberman or something to put on patrol up here.

Carter:
A watch dog, huh? Like Scrubs?

Doug:
Scrubs? No, not like Scrubs! He hides under the bed to bark at something!

Carter:
He's a lover, not a fighter, huh?

Doug (snickers):
He's the peacemaker...he'll lick you to death.

Carter:
A dog would be OK, I think. I might look into that.

Doug:
Well, you better check the lease and be sure it's OK.

Carter (scoffs):
Well, you're the landlord...what do you say?

Doug (taken aback):
Me? I don't own the building! It belongs to the county!

Carter:
Yeah, but, according to the proposal, you're in charge of it, so, whatever you say, goes.

Doug (shrugs):
You want a dog, Carter, go get one.

Carter (nods):
I just might do that later...after we all get settled a little more!

Doug and Carter walk over to the window and step out onto the fire escape stairway. Carter sits on the steps and leans back. Doug leans on the railing and gazes out.

Doug (taking in the view of the city):
Not such a bad view...

Carter (stretches his arms over his head):
It's fine.
(pauses)
You know, Dr. Ross, I didn't get a chance to really thank you for what you're doing for me here.

Doug (doesn't look at him...still gazing at the city):
Carter, we're all equals here now. This isn't like it was at the hospital. Why don't call me 'Doug' like everybody else does?

Carter (shyly):
I guess I just wasn't trained that way. But, I'll work on it.
(pauses again)
Anyway, thanks. I really appreciate this.

Doug (looks over his shoulder at Carter...smiles):
You earned it. You're exactly the kind of doctor these people need. You're gonna do great. I just know it.
(starts back inside)
Come on! Let's go see what kind of toys the delivery man left this time!

The two of them climb back through the window and disappear into the room.

Fade into the opening credits of the show.

Act One

Scene opens at the C.A.R.E. Center, still daytime. Show Carol Hathaway coming into the building carrying a box in her arms. She is dressed in a sweatsuit and tennis shoes and has both Scott and Tatiana with her. Each child is also carrying a box they are big enough to handle, Scott more easily than Tatiana, who is a little clumsy with hers. They come into waiting room and put the boxes down against the wall. Doug is working at the computer on the front desk and Carol smiles at him as she walks on in.

Scott (jubilantly):
WOW! This would be a great place to roller blade!

Carol:
You have a skate park for that, mister!
(the kids scatter quickly to run and play in another part of the building...Carol turns her attention across the room to Doug)
Hey, Doug!

Doug (waves an acknowledgment):
Hey! What'd you bring?

Carol:
Lab coats and scrubs!
(comes up to the counter beside him now)
Is it working?
(taps the top of the computer)

Doug (typing on the keyboard):
Like a charm!

Carol (surprised):
You and Mark set this thing up all by yourselves?

Doug (sarcastic tone...watching the screen...doesn't look at her):
Carter helped.

Carol (grins):
I figured you two 'executive doctors' must have had some help.

Doug (looks at her now...smirks):
I considered waiting until Scott got here and letting him do it, but, Carter sufficed nicely. It's working. That's all that counts.

Carol:
We'll get another one, though, right?

Doug (nods):
One more for out here...one for David's office and one for mine and Mark's.

Carol:
You and Mark work out the decor for that office yet?

Doug (chuckles):
Yeah, he's putting his medical certificates on his side of the wall and I'm putting my autographed picture of Michael Jordan on mine.

Carol (smiles):
That sounds about right!
(pause)
Is the TV crew coming today?

Doug (looks up quickly):
God, I hope not! I thought that wasn't until David does his press conference!

Carol (shrugs):
Well, maybe it is! I don't know. I just heard Mark talking something about it.

They are interrupted by sounds of something scooting across the floor overhead. Both turn their eyes to the ceiling.

Carol:
Carter's getting moved in, I see!

Doug:
It's coming along.

Tatiana comes into the room and goes quickly over to Doug, climbing up on his lap. Doug secures on her by putting his arm around her waist.

Tatiana:
Can I play too?

Doug:
Oh, I'm not playing! I'm working!

Tatiana:
Looks like you're playing to me!

Doug:
Well, I'm not! I'm installing software programs so your Mama will be able to find everything she needs when the office opens

Tatiana:
Do you make people better or do you stick them and make them cry?

Doug (truthful nod):
Well, I've been known to do both! But, if I do make somebody cry, it's because I have to in order to make them better.

Carol:
Speaking of which, did you read Morganstern's press conference plans? We're opening the Clinic with Free Vacination Day!

Doug:
Are you kidding me? I gotta spend my whole first day here sticking little kids with a needle?

Carol (grins):
I'm sure you'll have help from Carter and Mark. It's the County's way of showing the Community 'we care'.

Tatiana:
What's a Vax-in...
(she falters, unsure of the what the word is)

Doug (slowly and carefully):
Vac-in-a-tion

Tatiana (nods):
Yeah! What is that?

Doug:
That's when the doctor gives you a shot of medicine to keep you from getting sick. You've had all of yours!

Tatiana:
So, I don't get a ouwie?

Doug (shakes his head):
No ouwies for Tatchie!
(he tickles her and she squeals with delight)
What happened to your brother? He's awfully quiet all the sudden.

Tatiana:
He's upstairs with Uncle John!

Carol (laughing):
Uncle John?

Tatiana (nods):
That's what he said for us to call him!

Doug (lifts her to the floor and stands up):
Well, let's go see what Scott and 'Uncle John' are up to, shall we?

Carol and Doug follow Tatiana up the steps to Carter's apartment. Carter and Scott are busy unpacking a box and sifting through Carter's belongings.

Doug (as he reaches the top of the steps):
Is this where 'Uncle John' lives?

Carter (looks up sheepishly):
I hope that was OK. I guess I should have checked with the two of you first!

Carol (smiles):
It's fine, Carter. Don't worry about it. I'm flattered you think that much of our kids.
(Carter shrugs)

Scott (flops down on Carter's now filled waterbed and settled in):
This is really cool! Dad! Can I have a waterbed?

Doug (nods):
Sure you can, Son.

Scott (happily):
I can!

Doug:
Sure...as soon as you have your own apartment.

Scott (scoffs):
I should have known...

Carol (looks around):
Looking good up here, Carter. Can you use another hand?

Carter (smiles):
Sure!

All of them begin working unpacking boxes and setting things out to see where everything goes.

Cut scene to back downstairs in the Clinic. Show Mark coming in with David Morganstern, both carrying boxes with them.

Morganstern (once he is in the door):
Now it's starting to look like something in here!

Mark:
These boxes go to your office?

Morganstern (nods):
Yeah.
(he and Mark proceed on through the clinic)
Where IS everybody?

Mark (as they enter David's office):
Probably upstairs helping Carter get moved in.

David and Mark start back down the hall. David stops and looks into the other office, which now has a desk, Mark's medical certificates on one side of the room, Sports memorabilia on the other.

Morganstern:
I see you and Doug came to an agreement on the decor?
(Mark nods)
I guess I don't have to guess which side belongs to which of you?

Mark (chuckles):
I'm sure you don't!

Morganstern (quietly):
Listen, Mark, I hope you weren't upset that I recommended Doug for this position over you...it wasn't anything against you. You understand that, don't you?

Mark (nods):
Yeah, David, I understand. Things have been a little rough lately, I know. I haven't exactly been a shining role model. Doug and I have done a 180 professionally in the last six months. I think you made a great choice.

Morganstern:
I figured, if the committee picked him, that he would ask you to go with him. With you and Carol both here with him, I know somebody will be able to keep him in line. For some reason, he listens to you, Mark.

Mark (nods):
He'll be fine. Doug's really changed. And he seems to really want this think to work. I think everything's going to be fine.

Morganstern:
Well, just so you know...

Mark:
Well, Kerry Weaver pretty much took all the wind out of my sails at County before anything else even happened. I was beginning to feel like I didn't have a future. Now, I think I can see one.

Morganstern:
Three years here, at least. If it works, who knows?

Mark:
We're the guinea pigs, huh?

Morganstern (nods):
More or less. We get to see if it works. The Health Department is very excited about this project.

Mark:
And you'll be answering all the media questions in your press conference, right?

Morganstern:
Right.
(rubs his hands together)
I can't wait to get this place working and see how it goes.

Mark:
It'll be different, I'm sure.

Morganstern:
Not that much different. We're the center point between County and Mercy and we're equipped to handle anything except level one trauma. We'll be dispatched more by paramedics because of the emergency care experience we have here...exactly what the county wants. They want it so that the paramedics are just a transport unit...this center will give people a chance to get emergency care faster.

Mark:
Not to mention we're in the absolute WORST part of town for that.

Morganstern:
Exactly the reason for this location. It's needed. They want to see if it can work. It's a low risk shot, though. Carter will be living here so that the building is always occupied. It's safe enough. You gonna be OK with the risk?

Mark (nods):
I'll be fine...
(grins lightly)
I have a private bathroom here.

David chuckles with him and the two of them head for the stairs to see if they can help out up with Carter.

Fade Act One to Black.

Act Two

Scene opens in the C.A.R.E. clinic. Doug, Carol, and Mark are gathered at the front desk playing with the computer. Carter is across the waiting room at the fish tank with Tatiana and Scott.

Carter:
What kind of fish do you think we should get?

Tatiana:
Pretty ones!

Scott:
Salt water fish have the best colors.

Carter:
So, can I count on you guys to help me pick some out?

Scott:
Sure!

Tatiana (bounces excitedly):
Yeah!

Carter:
OK, then, it's a date! We'll go shopping this afternoon and see what we need to get some swimmers in here!
(looks over at Carol)
Has anyone heard from Chuney and Malik?

Carol (nods, looks up over the newspaper she is reading):
Yeah, they are getting their personal lives in order for all this change and they'll be here tomorrow to help us with unpacking and setting up!
(Carter nods)
Hey! There's an article in here about the center!
(everybody gathers around her...even Carter comes across the room to join them...the kids stay playing on their own)

Mark:
What's it say?

Carol (reading):
'County to open C.A.R.E. Center'...'Ben Carman of the Chicago Health Department, announced yesterday the city plans to open C.A.R.E. center, Chicago Area Regional Emergency...'

Doug (looking over Carol's shoulder):
So, that's the final title they went with, huh?

Carter (grins):
Seems like they changed it a dozen times...

Carol (continues to read):
'The center, located on Chicago's East side in what was formerly the Meyerson Warehouse building, has been fully converted and equipped to compete with the most modern medical facilities. The center will we equipped for x-rays and is adjacent to the Linkous Lab Company, which does all the laboratory readings for County General and Mercy Hospitals, and will have the same turnaround times as these hospitals in readings of lab work and x-ray results for patients. The center is equipped with six beds for short term care and three trauma rooms for immediate care. An all call surgeon from the County roster will allow the center to schedule outpatient surgeries, such as tonsillectomies and other such scheduled procedures. The center is staffed by two physicians from County General, Dr. Douglas Ross, Chicago's heroic Pediatrician who is perhaps best remembered as the doctor who saved a child from a storm drain...'

Doug (rolls his eyes):
Oh, geez! Are they STILL gonna bring that up?

Mark (nods sincerely):
It was big news, Doug...people don't forget things like that!

Carol (continues reading):
'Dr. Mark Greene, former ER Attending at County, and Dr. John Carter, an Intern in ER Medicine, rounds out the staff. Three nurses are also on staff. Chief Administrator of the center is Dr. David Morganstern, former head of County ER. The center is an experimental project of the Health Department in full cooperation with County General and Mercy Hospitals. "It is our hope that this center will help take some of the weight off the area Emergency Rooms of the hospitals" said Carman. "This center will be able to handle the bulk of minor emergencies that now file into hospital ERs. We have an excellent staff and the best equipment that can be had. We hope that the community will embrace this project with trust and enthusiasm". The project will fund and operate the center for three years, at the end of which time a review board will evaluate the performance of the center and it's impact on the area. The center will be studied for case loads and the nature of the emergencies it handles. C.A.R.E. will also operate as a Clinic, offering medical advice, affordable medical care, and special attention offers from time to time. First on the list of special offers is a Free Vaccination Day, for infants and school age children. Details of this event were not available at press time, but will be posted in time for parents to take advantage of this service...'

Doug (scoffs):
Take advantage is right!

Mark (chuckles):
It's a good idea, Doug...the more diseases we can control the better off our own kids will be in school.

Doug (nods):
You're right, I know...we just never did anything like that at County...

Mark:
Well, we're not at County anymore, Bud!

Carol (continues reading):
The staff of the center remains on staff of County General and will be able to refer patients to the hospital and also treat them there if necessary. "If this project does not work out" Carman explained, "The doctors will simply go back where they were before if that is their wish"'...

Doug (rolls his eyes):
Yeah, right...

Carol (continues):
...'but there are clauses in the lease agreement to give the doctors plenty of other options'
(puts paper down)
So, I guess people know about us now, huh?

Carter (looks over article):
That's nice...really.
(To Doug)
Do you think the community will accept us?

Doug (nods):
Oh, sure. They'll love a new place to stock drugs for them. I expect us to get at least one grand reception from somebody.

v Carol:
All kidding aside, we are fairly safe out here, aren't we? I mean, that's something I don't think any of us really thought much about when we gave up the hospital.

Doug:
We'll be OK. I'm sure we'll have some run-ins, but, we've had those before anyway. Once we've been here a while, we'll know what to expect. And so will the community.

Carter:
Well, I think it's time to go shopping for fish tank stuff. OK if I take your kids?

Doug (chuckles):
How long would you like to keep them? A couple of years maybe?

Carter (grins):
How about just a couple of hours?

Carol: (nods):
Yeah, that's fine. You want to feed them while you're out? Pizza maybe? Or Circus Clown?

Carter:
Yeah, sure! That'll be great.

Doug (starts to reach for his wallet):
You need money?

Carter (waves him away):
No, I got it. Thanks.
(turns to Tatiana and Scott)
Hey! Who's ready to go fish shopping?

Tatiana (bounces happily):
Me! ME!

Carter:
Let's go, troops!

Scott and Tatiana start away with Carter, Carol picks up her purse and slings it on her shoulder.

Carol:
Yeah, I'm gonna head out, too...got some more supplies to pick up at the Health Department. You guys be OK here by yourselves?

Doug (chuckles):
I think we can handle it.

Carol (kisses his cheek gently):
OK, then...see you guys later.

Carol goes on out. Mark and Doug sift through a few more things on the counter and then kick back in the chairs to play games on the computer. Ad libs between them as they bicker back and forth over the screen.

Cut scene to show time lapse. Doug is now standing up on the roof of the building, gazing out at the view of the city. Pan back to show Mark coming out the door and onto the roof with him. He walks slowly up to stop and stand beside Doug.

Mark:
Not a bad view, is it?

Doug (shakes his head):
Looks pretty good to me.
(pauses)
How about you, Mark? You OK with everything?

Mark:
Sure! Why wouldn't I be?

Doug (shrugs):
I don't know. Just that I know you were Morganstern's real first pick. If things were a little different, I might not be here right now.

Mark (truthfully):
You'd be here. If David had asked me first, I would have picked you. You know there's no one I'd rather have on my team than you.

Doug (grins):
Well, thanks for that. I just hope you are OK with all of it.

Mark:
I'm fine. Really. You said it yourself...we're partners, remember?

Doug (chuckles):
Yeah, but, I'll be the one taking the heat from Morganstern whenever something goes wrong!

Mark:
I'll back you up. You can count on that.
(chuckles in thought)
Unless, of course, I think you're wrong. In which case, I'll call you on it!

Doug (laughs):
Oh, I'm sure of that! That's something you really know how to do well.

Mark (looks around the roof):
So, where do you think would be a good place for a Satellite dish?

Doug (looks around, gives Mark a surprised look):
Satellite dish? Why? You buying one?

Mark (shakes his head):
Carter is.

Doug (brightly):
Yeah? Well, Carter can put a Satellite dish up here as long as he lets me hook a TV downstairs up to it so I can watch the sports, too!

Mark:
Oooo, you just really LOVE all this power you have now, don't you? (both chuckle)

Doug (looks over the side):
You see that lot down there?
(points to a small blacktop area with a chain link fence around it)
I'm putting a basketball backboard up right down there! Whatta ya think?

Mark (groans):
I think you're probably drafting me to help you put it up!

Doug (pats Mark's shoulder gently):
Yep!
(pause)
So, do you think we'll end up being sorry?

Mark:
Sorry for what? That we left County?
(shakes his head)
I don't think so. Not right away, anyway.

Doug (truthfully):
The party was nice, though.

Mark:
Oh, yeah! Nice party. The speeches were all nice. But, I think the thing I enjoyed the most was when you told Kerry Weaver you had something you wanted to say to her before you left, got right in her face, and said 'Bite Me!'.

Doug (chuckles):
I probably shouldn't have done that. But, she really pushed hard to get rid of me.

Mark:
Well, she got what she wanted. She's in charge now. You know what they say, don't you?

Doug:
What goes around comes around?

Mark:
Don't wish too hard for what you want...it just might come true.

Doug (in thought...ticks his head):
Huh. I guess I never thought of that.

Mark:
Well, maybe it's all for the best. At least that's what I keep telling myself right now.

Doug:
Ah, we're gonna be OK, Mark. This is gonna be great. We work a night, we're off a night, off but on call the next night...we get to rotate it between the three of us so that none of us have to give our whole lives to this place...I'll have time to be with the kids...go to school ball games and ballet recitals and still play golf with you! Maybe you can spend more time with Rachel...I know you'd both love that.

Mark (nods):
Yeah...I was thinking that same thing. Maybe I'll have time to breathe and just get myself together a little bit.
(pauses)
You know, Doug, we both had a traumatic happening in our lives, but, for some reason, you managed to put yours behind you a little better than I did.

Doug:
I couldn't have done it without Carol. She was the rock I held onto through the tough times. I owe her more than she knows...

Mark (truthfully):
I don't think I could have held onto Jen. I don't think she would have supported me the way Carol did you.

Doug (sincerely):
I'm sorry to hear that, Mark. I hope you find that kind of love someday.

Mark (nods sadly):
Yeah. Me too.

Their talk is interrupted by shouting and banging from below. They look over the edge of the building to see a young boy pounded desperately on the door of the clinic and shouting for help.

Doug (shouting down):
Hey! What's wrong down there?

Boy (shouts up to Doug quickly):
My brother! He's hurt! Please help!

Doug doesn't hesitate...he takes off in a dead run across the roof for the doorway. Mark turns quickly and tries to grab him, but, can't.

Mark (shouts):
Doug! What are you doing? You can't do anything! The center isn't open yet...

But his words fall on deaf ears. Doug is already off the roof and has disappeared into the building. Mark rolls his eyes and starts across the roof after him.

Fade Act Two to Black.

Act Three

Scene opens with Doug tearing down the steps from Carter's apartment and running into the clearing of the clinic waiting room. He reaches the door and rips it open. He is met frantically by a ten year old boy, pounding on the door in a panic.

Doug (quickly):
Hey! Hey! What's going on!? What happened?

Peter:
It's my brother! You have to help him!

He reaches out and grabs Doug by the hand, pulling him quickly out the door with him. Doug doesn't hesitate to follow him out onto the sidewalk.

Doug (as he is being pulled along)
OK! OK! Just tell me what happened!

Peter:
This car came out of no where! It hit my brother and kept on going!

Doug (running with him up the street):
OK! Don't panic! It'll be OK!

Within seconds they are upon a crowd of kids and a few scattered adults crowded around a seven year old boy lying in the middle of the street. Doug cuts through the crowd quickly with ad libs of 'Let me through' and 'Give him some room' to kneel carefully beside his young patient.

Doug (touches the boy's chest carefully):
Hey, take it easy, OK? You're gonna be OK...

Kevin:
It HURTS!

Doug (nods):
OK! Tell me WHERE it hurts!

Kevin (reaches down):
My leg! It hurts really bad!

Doug (nods, places his hand on the boys' leg):
OK...(pushes down carefully)...Here?

Kevin (grimaces in pain):
OW! Yeah!

Doug (nods):
OK, just take it easy, Buddy. We'll get you fixed up. What's your name?

Kevin:
Kevin.

Doug:
OK, Kevin, what I want you to do is tell me if you hurt anyplace besides your leg, OK? Can you do that for me?

Kevin (holds his arm to his side):
It hurts here.

Doug:
OK, let me see...
(Doug places his hands on the boys ribs and pushes in gently)
That hurt?

Kevin (nods, but, doesn't react badly):
Yeah, a little.

Doug:
O-K!

Mark had joined the crowd now, rushing up to where Doug is kneeling.

Doug (to Peter):
OK, you said you're his brother, right?
(Boy nods)
What's your name?

Peter:
Peter.

Doug:
OK, Peter, I'm Doug. Do you live around here close someplace?

Peter (points to apartment complex across the street):
We live right there.

Doug (looks, and nods):
OK, is there anybody home at your house?

Peter (nods):
My Grandma.

Doug (nods):
OK, you run over to your house and get your Grandma, OK?

Mark (shaking his head):
Doug, what are you doing?

Doug (doesn't look at Mark, stays working with Kevin):
Bring your Grandma and come back down to the clinic, OK?

Mark (a little sterner):
Doug, what are you doing?

Doug:
I'm taking him down to the clinic to x-ray his leg and his ribs.

Mark (shakes his head):
You can't DO that, Doug!

Doug (gives him a strange look):
Why not?

Mark (matter-of-factly):
The center isn't open yet?

Doug:
What's that got to do with anything? The equipment is there and it's all working...

Mark (shakes his head again):
No, we need to dispatch the kid to County and let them take care of it!

Doug (taken aback):
What? Why? In the time it takes us to do that, I can fix the problem!

Mark (emphatically):
Doug, do NOT do this...

Doug (turns to Mark sternly, keeps his voice low):
Listen, Mark, this kid is bleeding...the bone is broken and compounded...there's a chance he's bleeding internally and has cracked or broken ribs. In the time it takes us to dispatch him to County, he could be subjected to serious complications! Now, are you gonna help me or what? Because I don't have time to argue this with you any longer!

Mark (sighs):
You want a gurney?

Doug (grins...satisfied he has won Mark over):
No, we'll carry him.
(turns back to the brother)
Peter! Run home and get your Grandma, OK? I might need her to sign something for me!

Peter (nods, and turns quickly):
Got it!

Peter darts across the street in a dead run. Mark and Doug get on either side of Kevin and lift him carefully in a two man carry and run back to the clinic with him as the crowd watches on in awe.

Cut to interior of the clinic as Doug and Mark rush in with Kevin. They carry him to an exam room and lay him carefully on the table there.

Doug (takes direction):
Go get the x-ray machine...

Mark:
Where IS it?

Doug:
It's down the hall in the lab room...
(Mark rushes out)
You just take it easy, Kevin...everything's gonna be just fine! OK!

Kevin (groaning):
It hurts! It REALLY hurts!

Doug (nods):
OK! I know! Just take it easy, OK?

Mark returns with the portable x-ray machine and he and Doug set it up quickly. Doug is taking the pictures of Kevin's leg when Peter comes in with an older lady in tow.

Peter (points to Doug):
That's him! That's the doctor!

Grandmother:
Is he going to be all right, Dr....?

Doug (nods acknowledgment):
Dr. Ross...yes, ma'am! I think he's gonna be just fine.

Mark (watching machine):
How are we supposed to get the prints from this thing?

Doug:
It'll spit them out the back when they're developed.

Mark:
We need to have a crash course with this stuff...

Doug (grins):
Carol already gave me one...

Mark:
Well, for the rest of us, then!

The machine spits out two developed x-ray pictures and Mark quickly places them on the light screen in the room. Doug stands with him and looks at them carefully.

Doug (motions to the Grandmother):
OK, Mrs....?

Grandmother:
Francinni...

Doug (nods):
Mrs. Francinni...the leg is broken in two places right here (points) and right here. Now this one (points to the smaller one) is not too serious, but this one (points) is pretty severe. What I want to do here is put his leg in a soft cast and let the swelling go down.

Grandmother:
You set the bone, yes?

Doug (nods):
Oh, yeah! Absolutely! Dr. Greene and I can do that, but I don't want to put it in a full cast until the swelling goes down and we can examine it again.

Grandmother:
He needs to come back then?

Doug (nods):
That, or you can take him to your own doctor later.

Grandmother (smiles sincerely):
I think you will be Kevin's doctor now, Dr. Ross. You take care of Kevin now...and I will bring him back to you when you say.

Doug (nods again):
OK.
(Goes over to the medicine chest and takes out a syringe and a bottle of medicine)
OK, Kevin...gonna have you good as new in no time, Buddy!

Mark gives Doug a stern and cautious look as Doug rolls the little boy slightly on his side and pulls the back of his jeans down to inject him for their procedure. Kevin expresses pain, but doesn't cry.

Doug (waits for the medicine to work...leans over Kevin with a smile):
Hey, Kevin, what color cast you want on your leg?

Kevin (tears on his face):
I get a color?

Doug (ticks his head):
Well, I got a limited supply right now 'cuz we're not really open yet, but, you got a little bit of a choice...

Kevin:
What choices to do I have?

Doug (looks into the medicine cabinet):
Well, I got a hot pink, but you don't want that...

Kevin (scoffs):
That's for girls!

Doug (chuckles with him):
Yeah, right...pink's for girls! Don't want that! I got blue...and purple!

Kevin (happily):
Purple!

Doug (nods):
Purple it is!
(he taps Kevin's leg gently)
Can you feel that, Buddy?

Kevin:
Feels kinda weird!

Doug (nod):
God! That's how it's supposed to feel!
(motions to Mark)
You wanna help me here?
(Mark nods and takes his place behind Kevin at the head of the table, securing his shoulders in his hands)
OK, Kevin...I promise you this is not gonna hurt, OK?

Kevin nods nervously. Mark secures him tightly and Doug takes his leg in his hands and pulls quickly, snapping the leg back into place easily.

Peter (watching nervously):
Did it hurt?

Kevin (delighted):
Nope! He's a GOOD Doctor!

Doug:
You just rest here a second, Buddy, OK? Let me talk to your Grandmother.
(steps away with the Grandmother for private conversation)
There's no internal bleeding but he does have a couple of cracked ribs. I'm not going to tape them up because they will heal by themselves as long as you can keep him fairly quiet for a day or so...by quiet I mean just kind of lay around the house and watch TV...

Grandmother (smiles):
Oh, he'll enjoy a doctor who gives him THAT kind of medicine!

Doug (grins):
Put some ice on the leg to help reduce the swelling. If you need something for the pain, give him some aspirin. He should be just fine, but, I'd like to see him again day after tomorrow.

Grandmother (nods):
He'll be here.

Doug:
OK! Well, if you have any problems...I'll give you a phone number where you can reach me if you need me.

Grandmother (pats Doug's hand sweetly):
Welcome to our community, Dr. Ross. I know we're going to be very glad to have you here.

Doug (grins):
I hope so, Mrs. Francinni.
(turns to Kevin)
Kevin, my man! How about a pair of crutches?

Peter:
Wow! Crutches! Cool, Kev!

Mark:
I'll get those...

Doug helps Kevin down off the table and Mark returns with a pair of crutches for the boy. The family waves a good bye to Doug and starts out of the center. As they are leaving, they pass Carol and Morganstern, who are coming in with more supplies. The watch in awe as the three of them leave and then look at each other with fearful and pondering looks.

Morganstern:
Oh my God...what has he done?

Carol and Morganstern go quickly through the clinic and come up on Doug and Mark cleaning up the exam room. Carol stands in the doorway and gives Doug a bewildered look, but, Morganstern booms out his feelings quickly.

Morganstern:
Doug! What the hell did you think you were doing here?

Doug turns innocently to give David an amused look. Mark gives David a perplexed look, but Morganstern is focused hard on Doug, his eyes flashing concern, confusion, and anger.

Fade Act Three To Black.

Act Four

Scene opens still in the C.A.R.E. clinic...Morganstern and Carol still giving Doug a startled look.

Morganstern (repeats, very sternly):
What did you think you were doing, Doug?

Doug (nonchalantly...doesn't understand the confusion):
Kid got hit by a car in the street...his leg was broken, I fixed it. No big deal...

Morganstern:
No big deal? This clinic isn't even OPEN yet! We're not properly staffed...we're not completely equipped...

Doug (scoffs):
Well, what's THAT got to do with anything? We had the equipment I needed!

Morganstern:
This center isn't official yet. If they wanted to sue us, they could....and probably win!

Doug:
Well, they aren't going to sue us...

Morganstern:
You should have dispatched to County...

Doug:
In the amount of time it would have taken to get that kid to County, he would have been in danger of losing his leg, or at least having a limp for the rest of his life! Not to mention the blood loss! It was an easily fixed situation and I fixed it! Are you trying to tell me that the Mayor cutting a red ribbon in front of door is more important to you that a seven year old kid's leg?
(gives David a flabbergasted look)
I can't believe this, David!

Doug walks away in frustration away from the group. Morganstern starts after him, but, pauses at Mark on the way across the room.

Morganstern:
Why didn't you STOP him?

Mark (matter-of-factly):
I tried! You know he doesn't listen to me!

Morganstern (goes over to Doug who is now staring out the back window blankly):
I didn't mean it was a bad thing, Doug...it's just that the center isn't even open yet...

Doug (turns on him quickly):
I have a license to practice medicine, David. The license does not specify that it has to be done in "officially open" clinics or hospitals only. If you remember correctly, I once pulled a kid out of a storm drain and did a trach on him in the middle of Grant Park...

Morganstern (shouting to be heard over Doug shouting):
Yes, and you were DAMN lucky it turned out like it did.

Doug (shouts back):
Well, that was a risk I was willing to take! That's why kind of doctor I am! And you KNEW that when you recommended me for this position! Maybe you're having second thoughts about that now?

Morganstern:
Second thoughts?

Doug:
Sure I know you really wanted Mark for this position! You got what you wanted! He's here! So, why don't you just put him in charge so you'll be able to sleep at night without worrying what 'Dangerous Doug' is doing down here without proper supervision!

Morganstern:
OK! That's enough! I have the utmost confidence in your ability, Doug. Surely you know that much by now.
(Doug ticks his head...just listens...does not interrupt)
I don't doubt your decisions, Doug. OK, so, I got a little bent out of shape that you treated a patient before the center is open...if you think that was best...and Mark backed you up on that by helping you...then I will go to my grave supporting that action.
(reaches his hand to shake)
There are no 'supervisors' here, Doug. We're all equals. It's going to take me some time to understand we are not operating under the bureaucracy of the hospital. All I can do is ask for your patience and understanding.
(Doug chuckles)
Can you give me that much?

Doug (shakes his hand quickly):
Yeah, I can do that.

Before anyone else can say anything else, the group is startled by Ben Carman rushing through the doors.

Carman (rushing in):
I heard about the emergency on the scanner! What happened?

Doug (quickly):
Kid got hit by a car in the street and broke his leg. I brought him in, gave him an exam, set the leg and sent him home. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Carman:v You're responsible for this, Ross?

Doug (nods):
Yes, I am.

Morganstern (quickly):
And I back his decision 100%.

Carman (smiles...nods):
And well you should.
(all eyes focus on him)
This is EXACTLY the kind of go-getter I wanted for this project...someone who is not afraid to take risks or chances, just gets things done. You were right, David...he was exactly the right man for the job.

Morganstern (gives Doug a cautious look):
There was never any doubt...

Carman and Morganstern go off together discussing the happenings just commenced. Mark and Carol finally join Doug across the room.

Mark (chuckles):
Man, you're good! Every time you take a serious risk, you end up a hero!

Doug (grins):
It's a knack.

Mark (sincerely):
Sorry I gave you such a hard time. I didn't doubt what you were doing...I was just concerned that the center wasn't officially open...

Doug (nods):
I know. You helped me. That's what counts. I know I can always count on you, Mark.

Mark:
This is all gonna take some getting used to...

Doug (shakes his head with a chuckle):
Somehow, I don't think it's going to be all that much different.

Mark:
Well, now that someone else is here to watch you
(winks at Carol)
I'm going to go have dinner with Cynthia and ask her if she's interested in the receptionist position here...that OK with both of you?

Doug (nods):
Your area of expertise, Bud. Go for it.

Carol (agrees):
She did a good job at the desk clerk once she got in and got settled. I think she'll be just fine here.

Mark (nods):
OK, then. It's settled. I'll see you guys tomorrow.

Carol:
Good night, Mark.

Doug:
Have a good one, Buddy.

Mark takes his jacket and walks swiftly out of the clinic. Once he is gone, Doug and Carol retreat to the shared office and Doug closes the door. He wraps his arms around Carol and leans her up against the desk, tilting his head against hers gently.

Carol (looks into his eyes):
You OK?

Doug:
I'm fine.

Carol:
I don't know why I expected anything less than a Baptism with Fire for you and this place.

Doug:
I was only doing the right thing...we probably did that same thing 1,000 times at County! I don't know why David was so upset...

Carol:
Because the center isn't open yet...

Doug:
What does that have to do with anything?

Carol (smiles):
Nothing to you. And it doesn't to anyone else, either. Not really. It's just a technicality. I think Mark was a little nervous because he felt like it might cause problems.

Doug:
I guess I'm always just going to do things my way.

Carol:
Exactly the way you should do them. I'm very proud of you.

Doug (grins):
For what? Doing my job?

Carol:
For that...and for this job...and how good you are with the kids...and a million other things I couldn't begin to name. Remember right after we got married and you were afraid I might be thinking I'd made a mistake? Because you thought weren't the kind of man I wanted?
(Doug nods)
Well, I think that might have been true of you a couple of years ago. But, somewhere along the line you changed...and turned into a better man than I could ever have imagined for myself.

Doug (looks at her carefully):
You mean that?

Carol (nods):
I really do. Remember that time we talked at the Church when Tag and I didn't get married? And I asked you why I couldn't just find a decent guy to love me?
(Doug nods...Carol lifts his chin with her fingertips)
I didn't realize I had him all along.

Doug (scoffs):
I let you down so many times...

Carol:
You've more than made up for them.
(smiles)
I wouldn't trade you and our life right now for anything in the world. I hope you know that.

Doug (softly):
I hope you know how much I love you...

Carol (nods with a smile):
I do.

They lean in for a solid kiss, but, don't get far into it before they hear Carter return with Tatchie and Scott. Tatiana's excited shout floats through the clinic quickly.

Tatiana (off camera):
MAMA! Come see the pretty fishes!

Carol (calls to her daughter, grins at Doug):
On our way, Sweetheart.

Carol and Doug go into the waiting room where Carter is submerging plastic bags into the fish tank. All peer in to see the fish getting acclimated to the water.

Doug:
Went with fresh water, huh?

Carter (nods):
Yeah. The kids picked the fish. I got the plants.

Carol:
It's going to be real nice, Carter.

Carter (to Doug):
I heard a lot of static in the street about the 'good doctor' here at the clinic. Sounds like you've done well for the respect of the community.

Doug (scoffs):
Nothing anyone couldn't have done, Carter...just doing my job.

Carol and Doug exchange knowing glances...Carter only smiles...everyone turns their attention back to the fish with ad libs of 'look at this one' and 'look at that one'

Fade Act Four to Black.

Closing Act

Scene opens at the C.A.R.E. center, interior, daytime. Mark, Chuney, Malik, Carol, Doug, and Carter are all assembled there with Morganstern, Cynthia Hooper, and Ben Carman. The center is now fully equipped and looking like a very state of the art medical clinic. Tatiana and Scott are sitting together on two of the waiting room chairs. The children are dressed up, Tatiana in a dress, Scott in slacks and shirt and blazer. The medical team is dressed in medical attire.

Carman (to the crew):
I want to take this opportunity to say congratulations to all of you. You have all done wonders with this place getting it ready. I wish all of you all the luck in the world with this project, and please let me know if I can help you with anything at all in the future.

Doug (chuckles):
Now. THERE'S something that may take a little getting used to!

Carman:
I'm going outside and wait for the Mayor...David?

Morganstern (nods):
Be ready on notice, Gang.

David and Carman exit quickly. Cynthia turns nervously to the group and wrings her hands quietly.

Cynthia:
I just wanted to say thanks to all of you for this...I was really surprised when Dr. Greene asked me if I wanted to come along...

Carol (sincerely):
We're glad to have you, Cynthia, really.

Mark:
I told her this would probably be a little quieter pace than the hospital...but not too count to heavily on that!
(all chuckle)

Carman (opens the door):
Mayor's here, Gang! Let's roll!

Ad lib choruses of 'this is it' and the team heads out to the front of the building. There are handshakes with the Mayor and a red ribbon drapes across the front door.

Mayor (time cut into his speech):
We dedicate this Medical Center today for the Community, who has demanded better and more conveniently located Medical Care, with a team of doctors and nurses who have designated themselves as the caretakers of the people. These six individuals know the needs and demands of this community and have already proven they are willing to go to whatever means are necessary to provide whatever care is needed. Project C.A.R.E. enters its experimental stage, but not with experimental medical personnel. These people are trained for medical care, personal care, and psychological care. We feel there is nothing that can be presented to this group of people that they have not already seen and have not already handled at some time in their career. So, it is with great pride that I dedicate Project C.A.R.E. - the Chicago Area Regional Emergency Center - to the Community of this fine County...

The Mayor picks up a pair of scissors and starts to cut the ribbon, but just before he does, Doug looks up and sees Kevin...his young patient...in the crowd and holds his hands up quickly.

Doug:
Hold it just a minute, Mr. Mayor!

Morganstern and Mark roll their eyes, almost mortified that Doug would interrupt the Mayor, but, Doug pays them no mind. He reaches over and takes Kevin by the arm, pulling him into the clearing. The boy hops easily with his crutches.

Doug (to the Mayor):
If you don't mind, Mr. Mayor, I really think it might be more appropriate if this little guy cut the ribbon. After all, he WAS officially the first patient in here.

Mayor (smiles, hands scissors to Doug):
I think that's a fine idea, Dr. Ross...

Doug (hands scissors to Kevin and takes his hands in his):
Here we go, Pal...

He places the scissors over the ribbon and Kevin clamps them together quickly, snapping the ribbon apart amid smiles, applause, and pats on the back all around him from everyone. Kevin smiles happily and admiringly up at Doug.

Cut to show time lapse of the crew all inside the clinic. People are touring the facility and getting cake and punch. The air is filled with sounds of many conversations going at once. Focus on Morganstern and Carman in a corner, talking between the two of them.

Carman:
Good turn out for this...a lot of interest was sparked by your caring Pediatrician over there.

Morganstern (grins and nods):
Doug has that effect on people sometimes.

Carman:
Well, I wish my guinea pigs luck. Your guys are the test pilots, so to speak. If this works, there will be more projects like it to come.

Morganstern:
What about Mercy? I thought they were going to get involved in this as well.

Carman:
A little further down the line they may provide nurses for us, but, it was finally decided this should just be a County General project since the staff all came from there.

Morganstern:
Well, it's good that Mark, and Doug, and John Carter all remain on staff there...they'll at least be able to follow up anyone they need to admit.

Carman:
Well, there are plans now for more than that. We're looking into building a connector to County...a people walk...through a set of doors, across the top of the roof, into another walkway and into an elevator to put your right inside the ER.

Morganstern:
Can we do that?

Carman:
No reason we can't. It's in the future...and not that far away. Mercy will be watching everything and keeping records to see if this project is something that will work for them as well. We've got to get some of the weight off the ER's, David. We're tying them up with things places like this can handle and people are dying because of it. And if this project doesn't work, then everybody just goes back to doing what they were doing...unless the doctors want to buy out for private practice.

Morganstern:
Well, we're ready, willing, and able. You know we'll give it our best shot!

The men smile and hoist their glasses to each other in toast. Pan cut across the room. Show Carol walk slowly to the back door, look around to see if anyone is watching her, and slip out quietly. Focus on Doug watching her and as soon as she is out the door, he puts down his glass of punch and goes after her. She is standing at the base of the chain link fence staring at the newly erected basketball hoop when he comes up behind her.

Doug (teasing her):
Hey, hey! Sneaking out for your own personal solitude is NOT allowed today, Mrs. Ross!

Carol (grins over her shoulder at him):
I see you and Mark managed to get that thing up there all right.

Doug (shrugs, wraps his arms around her waist and cuddles her head carefully):
Carter helped. Got his satellite dish up, too. I'll be getting a TV for downstairs in a day or so.

Carol:
So, did the air turn blue while you guys were working on this stuff together?

Doug (chuckles):
A few times, yes.

Carol:
This is really it, isn't it?

Doug:
Yep! Guinea pigs led to the lab for slaughter. No turning back now.

Carol:
You OK with everything? You and Morganstern? You and Mark?

Doug:
I know it's never gonna be completely smooth sailing. It never has been with me. But, as long as I keep the levels of communication open, there shouldn't be anything come up that can't be worked out. (takes her by the hand)
Come on...let's go back inside.

They slip quietly back inside the building and mix back in with all the guests.

Fade into closing credits of the show.