Second Opinion

[fanta]

Hello,
I would like a second opinion, but my primary care refuses to give me a referral for one.  He says I can just see a different doctor at the same specialist clinic that I have gone to.  I am very discouraged with the treatment I was given there and do not want to go back there.  How else can I get a second opinion referral?      Thanks

P.S.  I was diagnosed with a form a "congestive heart failure" termed diastolic dysfunction and moderate pulmonary hypertension four years ago and than told three years later that "whatever was wrong with your heart has gone away", yet I am still to continue taking my meds.  Reasons why I would like a second opinion.

[Cleveland Clinic]

fanta,

thanks for the post.

Im not sure how your insurance works. First, I think you should sincerely express your concerns with your primary physician. If you and he/she cant see eye to eye on your care plan you should perhaps look into switching primary physicians.

Diastolic dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension are potentially reversible if the underlying cause, which is often hypertension, is treated. If this was the case, then your physician is probably trying to tell you that you are on the correct course.

As a patient you have rights. However, you should realize in medicine there sometimes isnt an exact explanation and sometimes you need to trust your physician. Shopping around often leads you to someone telling you what you want to hear and may not always be the best thing.
Again, most importantly you should discuss your concerns with your physician and the cardiologist you've already seen. It sounds like things are actually going well and switching to another physician may not be the best thing to do.

Have a happy thanksgiving