[marion06095]

Six months ago I saw my MS doctor. I've been his patient for almost ten years now. I had requested the visit, and I was determined to get him to help me in any way he could. It was a really odd appointment. I was describing the worst of my symptoms, and he was simply repeating that there is nothing that can be done for SP MS. I asked him if he couldn’t at least try to treat some of my symptoms.

Interrupting me, he asked me if I like jokes. I was puzzled but I said, “sure.” He proceeded to tell me a few stupid little jokes. (I remember one of them was a “knock-knock” joke) When I kept on trying to bring up my symptoms, he would interrupt me again with another stupid joke. Finally, I just looked at him and said, “I think I see what you are doing here.” His response? “GOOD.”

I had decided that I probably needed a new MS doctor, since this one has seemed to have given up on me. Then, I was shocked last month when I got a letter from his office saying I have another appointment in April. I never made that appointment.

So, what should I do? Cancel the appointment and get a new doctor? Or should I cancel the appointment and not bother with any other MS doctors. Or should I show up for the appointment, look him in the eyes, and ask him why I am in his office at his request.

[SallyC]

I'd go to the appointment. Ask him if he has any new meds or any new jokes!!

[marion06095]

LOL, good one, Sally. I might just do that.

[Jomar]

Maybe call the office and ask what the appt is for?
Why let him get money for an office visit if you aren’t sure why the appt was made?
And especially if you don't think he will be of any help to you..

[Debbie D]

I admire your ability to not get negative with him. I would have told him he was being quite rude...
I'm sure he knows that YOU know that there are limited options in treating SPMS. However, he still could have at least talked over various methods of dealing with your sxs.

Shame on him...

[Kitty]

I would have said "I'm sure you're certainly not going to charge me for this amateur comedy routine", gotten up and left WITHOUT checking out at the desk.

I would return the letter with a big CANCELLED written on the front.

I am so tired of these doctors thinking they're God but doing absolutely nothing for us. Honestly, I think this group of MSer's here knows more about MS than the Neurologists do.

***Gee...I just reread my post and I'm getting ornery in my old age!!***

[SallyC]

You've been hanging with me too long Kelly!!

[Starznight]

I think if anything I'd only give the courtesy to call and let them know I wasn't going to keep the appt... I mean, I love doctors with a sense of humor so long as they still take my symptoms seriously. But I would also look for another doctor if your symptoms are hindering your day to day. Somehow I doubt you'd be upset if your 'serious' symptoms was the occasional headache, or tingly in your pinky... So definitely look for another doctor.

There isn't much of anything that can be done for MS, no matter the sort, but many of the symptoms can be treated.