testing schedule while on tx

[shupeg]

What is the schedule for testing while on a 24 week tx? My doc said that he wouldn't test until 12? I have been told that the 4 week is important esp due to my genotype 2 and low vl. Is there any published medical info that I can send to him. I have good insurance but unless he feels it is medically necessary they may not pay.

I know I should find another doc but there are no heptologists within my immediate area.

Thanks,

Shupeg

[granitekonig]

LOL is used entirely too often. Call me a rainmaker, but seriously, it's annoying.....LOL

[Rockerforlife]

actually....after tx...week 4 and week 12 are the markers too....LOL

[Rockerforlife]

Week 4 is crucial...if you get  RVR at week 4...you know the "hand of cards" you can play now....to week 4...and week 12 are the most important during tx that is...after tx is another story

[mrvacation]

My Dr. did same thing. I'm genotype 2 , 1st 4 weeks he did cbc and hepatic profile. 12th week pcr. I asked him about this, he said no matter what 4 week pcr would have said we would not have changed anything.

[Rockerforlife]

You have to shop around for doctors,just like anything else in life you buy....i would try to get another doctor...this guy dont sound too good.

[shupeg]

Thank you for the response. Do you know where I can find info on the latest protocols?

From what I have read on this forum there are few docs out there who are really on top of this.
My doc originally prescribed 800mg/riba a day. It was not until I joined the forum that I found that he had not prescribed a weight based dosage, but rather a dosage based upon his experience with a patient who at 1200 had riba rage so bad that the doc was afraid of him! He told me this when he first gave me the script.

Thanks again,

Shupeg

[copyman]

Your doc is wrong! the latest protocols call for a 4 week test. No matter what get this test done even if you have to pay for it.  If you don't you may regret it later. There have been studies done on the importance of this test. I'm sure others will point you to them. Tell your doc that the ins co will pay for it because it is now protocol. These docs act like it is their money! Good luck with your tx.