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Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,997
Registered: ‎03-25-2012

After 16 years , and with the exception of the second rheumatologist I went to, I have finally found one who did a comprehensive physical exam on me, sat down in front of me with a pad and pen, asked me multiple questions, listened to my concerns, and we then had a discussion.

 

She ordered 15 vials of bloodwork which was taken at the lab in her office, and said after analyzing the results and perhaps other tests, WE would get together and devise a PLAN of treatment.  In the meantime she also ordered prednisone for me, which my PCP suddenly decided she would no longer do, after ten years of prescribing it.

 

I am so relieved and look forward to working with this REAL doctor, after 14 years of seeing other RA docs who never examined me or saw me for any longer than about seven minutes and handed me a prescription.

 

The background on this is within this Wellness forum, entitled “Have to find a new PCP,” if anyone wants to refer to it.

Formerly Ford1224
We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Elie Wiesel 1986
Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,776
Registered: ‎08-04-2013

@LilacTree  I am so happy for you. I love my Rheumatologist as he does the same with me and I trust him.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,540
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

I am so happy for you. I love my rheumatologist for the same reasons. Keep us posted.🥳🥳

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,889
Registered: ‎03-11-2010

If doctors had more time, more curiosity, and a stronger desire to find a real diagnosis, we’d all be better off. It seems that all they can do these days is mask symptoms with medications. I could have died of thyroid cancer if I hadn’t become my own advocate and met with a specialist to discuss my symptoms, which my internist dismissed for over three years. Yes, we must be our own advocates but doctors need to get their heads out of their computers and LISTEN.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,845
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

@LilacTree   Glad to hear that you finally found a doctor who will listen and plan with you!

 

I haven't been happy with my primary for a very long time.  When I come in with a problem he tries to push testing that has nothing to do with my health issue.  They are the typical tests that are suggested everyone should have...yet he doesn't listen to what ails me.  He just likes to go by the book and whatever is the easiest for him....time for me to find a new primary!

 

I also find it very interesting that any heart related testing is never suggested yet heart disease is the number one killer for women over a certain age.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 19,347
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Wishing you good luck with this doctor. Better health would be wonderful.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,322
Registered: ‎02-22-2015

@LilacTree Heart this post of yours, Lilac! What a huge relief. This is the kind of "doctoring" I expect. So happy you've finally found one who is going to work WITH you. You need to be your own health care advocate. That lab work is SO important! There are times it takes an hour with your physician; other times you'll be in and out in 10 minutes. Trust with your physican is #1 between a physican and patient. There are excellent physicians around. Delighted your finally found one of the good ones!  Smiley Very Happy 

Money screams; wealth whispers.
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Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,220
Registered: ‎07-27-2015

Sounds like you finally have a good doctor who really listens to the patients. I just recently changed my PCM for the same reason. I was so tired of going back and forth with doctors to no relief. Seems as if all some physicians want to do is give meds vs finding out the root causes of the patient complaints.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,195
Registered: ‎04-10-2012

I am so glad for you that you have found a doctor you feel you can relate to.....These days it is i believe harder to find that connection................I hope your new doc makes all the difference to you and your health!!  Thoughts are with you.

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,821
Registered: ‎02-16-2018

@LilacTree I’m so happy for you that you finally found a knowledgeable doctor that you can trust. Hopefully now you will have peace of mind, a lot less stress, and begin feeling much better.😊