Recevied normal pap test initially but now the results have changed

  had my annual visit in September 2008, in which I received my test results back as normal with no problems.  Just about 2 weeks ago (February 2009), I received a phone call from my gynecologist's office referring to the same test (annual exam) I had 5 months ago stating that there was a problem with the test and I need to have additional testing and possibly additional treatments and tests every six months depending on the results.  

My health insurance has changed since the original exam had taken place.  I did not indicate any pre-existing conditions to my new insurer regarding this matter.  The doctor's office has stated to me over several conversations that this is a pre-existing condition.  Since I had not disclosed that information and it was unknown to me at the time of receiving my new insurance, there is a strong possibility that my new insurance may not cover this condition and/or cancel my policy entirely.   It is still unresolved as of today.  When I have talked to the doctor's office they seem to be giving me the run around and will not give me a straight answer on how to handle the problem.

Is this normal to have your doctor decide to look at your test results 5 months later and call and tell you there was a problem they missed? I feel the doctor is liable for not telling the truth back in September.  What if the tests come back showing I have cancer or something else.  Then what am I suppose to do.  

I need advice on what to do.  Is this normal?  Has anyone else had this type of situation.  I am stressing over this.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
If you can prove that they didn't notify you--in other words if they have no documentation to the contrary, like a return receipt from a letter or a note re: a phone call, etc.  They are in a bit of hot water.
If you have abnormal cells on your pap, they should notify you right away--there may not need to be any further follow up for six months, but they should not wait six months to tell you that.
If you lose your insurance, you might want to ask the opinion of an attorney in this matter. Even if you don't lose your insurance, I would suggest to the doctor's office that they might want to consider straightening the whole mess out with your insurance company.  You may need to insist on speaking directly with the doctor and not the front office staff--or even make an appointment with the doctor and bring your documentation.
A dictated note from your MD might be all it takes to sort the matter out.

Good luck!
Dr B

[Alexis17]

The only notification I received was on 9-15-08, a postcard stating my pap test was normal.  Other than the phone call recevied two weeks ago stating there was an abnormality to my test from September I had no other notification.

Should I still keep my original appointment with the doctor who was at fault and have the additional testing done to see what the abnormality is and hope my insurance covers me? Or should I go see a new doctor?