It's not always running from your thoughts. Sometimes it's just nice to be occupied with something pleasant while you're waiting.
Also, sometimes when you're waiting at the doctor's office you're waiting for important news that would trigger anxiety in the healthiest among us, and distracting yourself is a great strategy in those moments.
Right? There were, and still are, magazines in many waiting rooms or TVs. If I want to meditate or sit without distraction it's probably not going to be in a waiting room or at a restaurant.
Also, sometimes when you're waiting at the doctor's office you're waiting for important news that would trigger anxiety in the healthiest among us, and distracting yourself is a great strategy in those moments.