I had my appointment with a new primary care doc today. I am cautiously optimistic. She did a really good job listening to everything that I had to say. Unlike some of the other doctors I've seen who interrupt me while I talk and take things off track, she let me go through everything and then we started at the beginning and she asked her questions to make sure she was understanding everything. I liked that because it made me feel like she really did listen to everything I was saying and taking it all in while I was talking instead of acting like she knew where I was headed.

She mentioned a lot of tests she wanted to run and things that she wanted to rule out. She mentioned some possible things that we should be looking for, some possible paths that this could take depending on the results of the tests that we run. We're starting with some basic bloodwork, an EMG, and a consult with a doctor to check on my stomach/abdomen to rule out causes for the vomitting other than just the dizziness. She also started me on a med to coat my stomach and esophagus I think is what she said. She wants to prevent me from getting a tumor or ulcer or something from the vomitting. Hey...I'm all for this not getting WORSE or more complicated.

She did seem a little shocked by the lack of testing with this going on for 3.5 months now. At this point there should be significantly more diagnostic testing that could give us some clue as to what's going on. Also comforting was that she mentioned Mayo already as a possibility if we don't have an answer after running a bunch of tests. Because of the lack of diagnostic tests, she seems skeptical about some of the conclusions that have been drawn up to this point. She's not sure why a lot of tests weren't run and how some things can be considered to be ruled out without testing for then.

At any rate...it seems like a new set of eyes on this is getting the process moving again...which is all I really expected out of today. So it's a win in my book.

On a side note...got a call from my local neurologist today. They have been trying to get records from Northwestern and Northwestern says they have no record of me being there. GREAT...can I assume I will not be getting a bill then? I'm sure it's something stupid like either the person requesting the records or the one looking for them is spelling my name wrong. But goodness...what else is going to go wrong?

I'm not buy'in it. Medical office programs can filter your name any number of ways in case of misspelling, i.e. first name, last name, birthdate, SSN, address, phone number....you name it. All medical providers are required by their respective state boards to keep a medical file. Threaten a written state board complaint against the providers, their facilty and that you will be "consulting counsel" regarding HIPPA violations as they now have potentially breeched your personal information and I'll bet it magically re-appears! And yes, without notes, they cannot prove you were there or what kind of care was rendered so payment should be optional.

It great to see that you found a doctor you feel you can trust. Can you please send me a message of who your doctor is. We live in IL and I would love to see a doctor who will listen to my daughter about her RSD.

Sure can. It's only my first visit and she is a primary care as opposed to a pain specialist...but it's a start. Unfortunately my primary care was probably in way over his head and was definitely not able to handle the complexity of my situation right now. I have a lot of faith that this lady will either BE the right doctor or will get me TO the right doctor. It's a good feeling after so much frustration lately.

Catra,

So glad to hear about your new PCP being compassionate and eager to get testing started! I understand you caution, who wouldn't? It must feel great to have somebody listen to you without nodding their head going"UH HUH, I see, yea sure i get it, (making face: coo coo)".) If even for a better referral it sounds like you are on a good path! Doctor's have lost their bedside manner and ability to treat/diagnose properly. It has come to my attention that because the insurance companies are reimbursing Dr.'s less, that is why Dr.'s are triple booking patients at the same appointment time. Seriously, how do expect to adequately treat someone when you have 2.5 minutes to spend with them? and yet insurance premiums, testing & medication prices continue to soar!! well that is another post!!

Any ways, keep in touch and I will be following your progress!! here is to new beginnings!!

Well I am glad your new doctor is doing more testing. I do feel and even my pain doctor said how important it is to rule out other conditions.
As for the hospital with your medical records I would call myself. You have a right to the records and actually every apt I have I get a copy of my results and doc notes and keep it in a binder. That way I can bring it to each new doctor.