Doctors to busy

[1Warhorse]

I finally talked my P.C. doc to refer me to the largest clinic in our state for consultation on whether to treat or not,
I had all my questions written out, all my medical records-including my 2007 biopsy, ready for a good consultation,
he told me he didn't need to look at them,if I was stage 2 grade 2 in 2007, that it takes 7 years to progress to the next stage, and I also ask if some of my other conditions, (dibetes, 15 years of reaccuring colon polyps, gum problems, and benign reaccuring lesions in my throat) could be caused by a comprimised immune system, from
the hep c, which he told me that they were all seperate and had nothing to with my liver, then asked about treatment, or waiting for approval of the new vertex drug, and if I should have another biopsy to see where I am,
he sent me to the lab for blood work, and said he would call me when he got the results, well I still had a lot of questions to ask and do not think this is right, after waiting 2 months, driving 200 miles, spending the night,
getting lost, all I got was a 10 minute visit and promise of a phone call, finally my question, are there any clinics,
or doctors that will see me without a referal from my P.C. doc, I am fortunate and have good insurance for now,
but called a couple and they say I need a referal, any Ideas would be great...by the way I almost forgot my manners, shoud have said Hello to all, and I appreciate all the advice and help you give people on this forum,
I am 56 years old and have had this for about 35 years, and have about decided to treat, but would really like to find a doctor that I have a good feeling about...thanks for listneing, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated...
  I do not think my P.C. will refer me again, as he did not like doing it the first time, saying our local doctor was fine......

[Rockerforlife]

Very un professional Doctor.There otta be a law.

[brianmo]

Yes, I have been in your situation. I went to three different doctors before I found the one I like. That was in a 200 mile radius, I live in a place that is limited. Keep searching, I am amazed at how rude a few of the doctors were but see here on this site that its not that unusual. Wow.  I have never been part of the Medical Web so this has all been new to me. I did not have to have a refferal but mu PCP was happy to help me out to whoever I wanted to see. Good luck.

[orphanedhawk]

I'm kind of an oddball I guess but when I needed to see someone other than my regular GI, I went directly to a hospital which I'd heard and read about. They told me usually patients are referred to them but they'd treat me either way.

I agree with NYgirl. The idea that this disease goes by rules is preposterous.

This is YOUR life not your doctors. It is your decision.
If you are strong and clear, people, even medical people, accept this.
If you think it will make things go smoother, try to get a referral but there is nothing wrong with doing the footwork yourself.
Say you are unhappy with your doctor's advise and need a second opinion.

Good luck,
OH

[nygirl7]

HonestlY i don't like the way he said "that it takes 7 years to progress to the next stage, " - as far as we all know and understand liver damage is not linear meaning it could take you 20 years to get to stage 2 but only a few years to get to stage 4.

Have you called your insurance company directly and explainned the situation to them? I know most insurance companies are just as bad as the doctors who don't seem to give a damn (why couldn't he just let you ask your questions I mean how long would that have taken five minutes?).

You shouldn't have to go to a hepc clinic that doesn't seem to care very much if you have good insurance.  Insurance is part of our pay really when you think about it, comes out of our paychecks every week so we SHOULD be entitled to some assistance finding a doctor that would be better.

Did your PC say why he wouldn't give you a referrel to  a new doctor? I mean you do have a choice in the matter on which doctor you go to.  Many people switch doctors during treatment.......its' important to find someone you are comfortable with.

Hello back and GOOD LUCK WITH THIS ALL!

[GSDgirl]

Honestly in my opinion I would ask for another referral, who cares if the PC didn't like it.  It is your health and sometimes we have to be pushy.  I would call some hepatologists or gastros in the area and talk to the receptionist for a few minutes, that is usually a good first impression.  Find one that you like and insist on the referral.

Seriously my gastro saw me 5 maybe only 4 times max in my 24 weeks of treatment, I thought that was the norm till I found this forum.  Luckly I didn't have any real medical emergencies.

JMHO

DEnise

[copyman]

Hi and welcome. That is a shame how you were treated. Unfortunately this happens way to often with these "specialist". Many seem to always be in a hurry. Most doctors in gereral have a 15 min window to see patients. It is not right but that is what our medical system has become, a revolving door.
Not all doctors are like this and I'm sure you can find one that will answer all your questions and can help you put a plan together to treat your HCV.
Most "good insurances" don't need a referral. of course you have the option of paying around $300 out of pocket to see a hepatologist.
If you post your location maybe other members here could recommend a hepatologist in your area.
Best of luck