It can and has happened, but not often...
For examples: GP's familiar with diabetes, carpal tunnel or stroke patients are at times more 'attuned' to look out for such PN issues and either have 'learned about' and treated or refer patients to available area specialists-IF there are any. It really depends on that doc's particular past experiences. As for getting in to see that new neuro? Call that office and ask to be put on a wait list for cancellations. That's how I've lucked into many of the appointments I've had with some of the BEST in a 25 mile radius of my humble suburban home? You just have to be 'ready' to get there with anywhere from 3 days to 12 hours notice? You can always decline [say you have a conflicting appointment] and ask to be 'kept on the list'. It's worked for me, and definitely worth the effort.
Of course you show a good deal of common sense in realizing your GP can't do all he might/should to help your situation, but Keep enlisting his 'curiousity' by asking some of those 'silly questions' we all ask here... But, never EVER say you learned it on the INTERNET? So many docs resent this? And while you have found a site here of folks who are dedicated to [as is said on the "X-Files"] learning as much TRUTH as can be known about PN's, well lots of docs think it's all quackery. I simply say, I've read/learned about from sites such as: NIH, Cleveland Clinic, Hopkins, Mayo, Pub Med., etc..read papers about.X,Y &Z...So you are asking questions based on pedigreed medical papers and research. Your questions can't be brushed off as easily?
Just HAVING your GP in your corner, knowing that something is going on and it's beyond his circles of knowledge and willing to back you up with say a referral to say Mayo, Hopkins, or wherever - making a 'call' to get you on a short list for a full diagnostic workup could be just the boost you need to get tested...
Take every good action as a prize, any set backs as just that and as Rina said- relax=CHILL! Expect the worst, hope for the best and if anything good happens be happy that you are one step more on the way!
It IS one heck of a long and frustrating process! Read carefully LizaJane's Billye's and Kmeb's posts as those are lessons in persistence, frustrations and more perseverance! They are pure lessons in the NOT GIVING UP FACTOR! There are many, many others here who have inspired me to keep on going and learning and coping...Even newer folks! We aren't done in yet! Nor will we be! So, keep in mind my favorite fortune cookie? Patience is the Art of Hoping Takes a big heap of Patience and a whole mess of Hope?
Will start another thread about the meds... - j