Hi Tiger,

I used to think doctors were all the same; now I think maybe just most of them. Some years ago, the fellow who had been my PCP for the previous ~30 years (since my teens) retired, leaving me in the position of finding a new doctor. I went through several in fairly rapid succession, and then found one who was quite different; candid, communicative (including being a good listener) and "real". I've since (due to various ravages of middle age) acquired a team of like-minded specialists.

Some doctors just don't respond well, or know how to respond for that matter, to chronic illnesses (e.g. pain). Many got into medicine to help people, and they're confounded/frustrated when confronted with conditions/patients they just cannot help.

A Letter to Patients With Chronic Disease (from a primary care physician)

I'm inferring from your statement that your husband and family doctor "get it" now, and hopefully things will improve going forward.

Best Wishes,

Doc