I saw my primary Dr. yesterday and up til now he has taken the stance that I am on too many meds and they could be the cause of my symptoms. Before I went, I typed a list of my meds, their dosages, etc. and a list of items I wanted to discuss. I had just seen my rheumy and did the same thing - he didnt want me to stop anything he prescribed. Back to my primary... I handed him the list and we went down it together. 1. Which meds can I could stop which he has prescribed and he said NONE, but to increase ativan to 3x/day for 30 days to see if it will help neck/back pain. 2. neck/back pain - discs are compressed and are spurring (going on over 4 years) He is sending me to a pain clinic. 3. yes, will test me for vitamin deficiencies and thyroid. 4. yes, willl send me to ortho for hip pain. Pt made it worse. cannot walk more than a few feet w/o significant pain. It also rolls out of socket when I lie down. 5. Is referring me back to digestive disease specialist for a follow-up.
We talked for almost an hour! it's one of the most productive appts I have had. We also reviewed tests from neuro, MRI's, x-rays, etc. I will always take a list to every appt from here on out....
Owiedeb, I'm so glad to hear about your appt. After reading a lot of the forum posts I was beginning to think that I was the only person on the forum who had productive and decent doctors. Sounds like he/she did exactly what needed to be done and took the time to talk with you and answer all of your questions. Hang on to that doctor. LindyDuh. I thought you were going to describe your cool new apartment. I'm glad your APPOINTMENT went so well though!I am glad you found a way to get through to your doctor, as I too finally have had some recent success and progress. It's just amazing how thick-headed this industry can be - the simple courtesty of redirecting you to the right person to answer your questions instead of "i don't know"s or just ignoring or belittling you. I am hoping Michael Moore's movie is starting something, because something has to change, and its not the patients (well except the abusers, but they are impossible to weed out).
Keep us updated on your test results!!!
Glad ya had a good appt! Hope for many more to come.Keep us posted on the results.
Peace & Love....Neasy