Aa
Back from the Psychiatrist...what a waste of my time!
Well I was first asked to fill out a questionaire...which I did.
Then I was seen by a "therapist" who asked a million questions right down to whether or not I was abused by my family and whether being adopted has caused me problems in the past. This was after I explained almost everything that has gone on in the last two years! She took notes on everything that I said and told me that she would talk to the doctor about everything we had discussed and then he would make a decision (about what I have no idea).
Then I was told to come back in an hour and a doctor would see me.
I was seen by the "doctor" and after him asking me about 6 times whether or not I was depressed or just angry he gave me a prescription for anti-depressants and told that I was welcome to come join their group sessions every Wednesday to try to make me feel less lonely.
He asked about my seizures (which are really a non-issue and have been for about 12 years), he asked if I had warnings about my seizures...I told him not really because I had them when I was sleeping all the time. He asked if the anger I had was directed at anyone (what a friggin joke this guy is...didn't he read anything that the "therapist" wrote down?) and I told him that it is directed at many people and most of them health care related and if he wanted another play by play he could refer to her notes because I was tired! (I was tired and why should I have to go through it all over again...the therapist was amazed at my detail with dates and such over the last 2 years so I think they should have figured that I was just going to repeat myself!)
Anyway, I will give you more detail later but the gist of it is that the psychiatrist is not interested in referring me to a neurologist...just gave me some anti-depressants and was told to see the "therapist" in the beginning of November to see how the drugs are working and I am "welcome to come to the group therapy sessions every Wednesday for as long as I want so that perhaps I won't feel so lonely".
WHAT A TOTAL CROCK OF SH**!!!!!
I am soooooooo Pi**ed off right now I could just spit! As far as I am concerned the neuro/psych consult was a waste of time as was this appointment and perhaps I will just give it all up...why not, as I said to the psychiatrist over and over..."I am at the end of my rope and I have nowhere left to turn" and he just kept asking if I was going to do harm to myself or anyone else??? what the heck does he care...I guess as long as I am not feeling lonely he feels his job is done I guess eh?
Rena
I am going out for a steak supper starting with a White Russian and then maybe I will have a White Russian for an appetizer and for dessert! I will elaborate more either later tonight or tomorrow morning but I figure why go all the way to the hospital to talk to a bunch of strangers when I have a support group right here that at least knows my story and I know will always be here??
ppss Ada...I will drop you a line later ok?
Then I was seen by a "therapist" who asked a million questions right down to whether or not I was abused by my family and whether being adopted has caused me problems in the past. This was after I explained almost everything that has gone on in the last two years! She took notes on everything that I said and told me that she would talk to the doctor about everything we had discussed and then he would make a decision (about what I have no idea).
Then I was told to come back in an hour and a doctor would see me.
I was seen by the "doctor" and after him asking me about 6 times whether or not I was depressed or just angry he gave me a prescription for anti-depressants and told that I was welcome to come join their group sessions every Wednesday to try to make me feel less lonely.
He asked about my seizures (which are really a non-issue and have been for about 12 years), he asked if I had warnings about my seizures...I told him not really because I had them when I was sleeping all the time. He asked if the anger I had was directed at anyone (what a friggin joke this guy is...didn't he read anything that the "therapist" wrote down?) and I told him that it is directed at many people and most of them health care related and if he wanted another play by play he could refer to her notes because I was tired! (I was tired and why should I have to go through it all over again...the therapist was amazed at my detail with dates and such over the last 2 years so I think they should have figured that I was just going to repeat myself!)
Anyway, I will give you more detail later but the gist of it is that the psychiatrist is not interested in referring me to a neurologist...just gave me some anti-depressants and was told to see the "therapist" in the beginning of November to see how the drugs are working and I am "welcome to come to the group therapy sessions every Wednesday for as long as I want so that perhaps I won't feel so lonely".
WHAT A TOTAL CROCK OF SH**!!!!!
I am soooooooo Pi**ed off right now I could just spit! As far as I am concerned the neuro/psych consult was a waste of time as was this appointment and perhaps I will just give it all up...why not, as I said to the psychiatrist over and over..."I am at the end of my rope and I have nowhere left to turn" and he just kept asking if I was going to do harm to myself or anyone else??? what the heck does he care...I guess as long as I am not feeling lonely he feels his job is done I guess eh?
Rena
I am going out for a steak supper starting with a White Russian and then maybe I will have a White Russian for an appetizer and for dessert! I will elaborate more either later tonight or tomorrow morning but I figure why go all the way to the hospital to talk to a bunch of strangers when I have a support group right here that at least knows my story and I know will always be here??
ppss Ada...I will drop you a line later ok?
Here is the info on the Alberta Health & Wellness MS Drug Coverage Program.
www .ab .bluecross .ca/ dbl/ pdfs /ahwdbl_sec2. pdf
A couple of things to note regarding eligibility criteria:
- patients must have had at least two MS attacks in the previous two years
(Rena, I can't recall what you've told us about your history of attacks; would you fit this criteria?)
and also,
- patient cannot have "active, severe depression" unless a waiver is provided by the attending psychologist/psychiatrist
(I can see the reason for this if the patient wanted to go with beta interferon treatment, but not sure why this would matter if going with Copaxone? In any event, it doesn't sound like you've been diagnosed with 'severe' depression, so I wouldn't think this should be a barrier for you)
Of course in order to qualify for coverage of these meds, you first need a neurologist who is willing to prescribe them, and bring forward an application for coverage on you behalf. Of course this point gets to the very heart of your concern.
I thought this information might also be useful to you as you figure out what to do next.
Did evil neuro ever respond to you in writing citing the reason why she is not prescribing DMD's for you?
www .ab .bluecross .ca/ dbl/ pdfs /ahwdbl_sec2. pdf
A couple of things to note regarding eligibility criteria:
- patients must have had at least two MS attacks in the previous two years
(Rena, I can't recall what you've told us about your history of attacks; would you fit this criteria?)
and also,
- patient cannot have "active, severe depression" unless a waiver is provided by the attending psychologist/psychiatrist
(I can see the reason for this if the patient wanted to go with beta interferon treatment, but not sure why this would matter if going with Copaxone? In any event, it doesn't sound like you've been diagnosed with 'severe' depression, so I wouldn't think this should be a barrier for you)
Of course in order to qualify for coverage of these meds, you first need a neurologist who is willing to prescribe them, and bring forward an application for coverage on you behalf. Of course this point gets to the very heart of your concern.
I thought this information might also be useful to you as you figure out what to do next.
Did evil neuro ever respond to you in writing citing the reason why she is not prescribing DMD's for you?
I decided to write a letter to my psychologist that diagnosed me as being depressed after a full day + 3 hours of testing in comparison to the 10 minutes that the psychiatrist spent with me mostly asking about my Raeder's Syndrome! Following is what I wrote to her:
Well I took your advice and went to see a Psychiatrist at the University of Alberta Hospital's Psychiatry ward. I was seen by a therapist to begin with and then was seen by a Psychiatrist.
The gist of the visit was that the Therapist took down all of my information and told me that other than perhaps offering me group therapy and a medication there probably wasn't much they could do to help me. Then I was seen by the Psychiatrist who focused on my anger at not being able to get a Neurologist that would care for me and follow up on my MS and did not seem to want to relate any of my symptoms of depression to MS. The only symptom of MS that he related to was the pain in my legs, not even mentioning my cognitive difficulties, my vision difficulties or the numbness and tingling that I regularly experience and I was shuffled from the office rather quickly so I was unable to question why he hadn't taken any of those symptoms into account. As a matter of fact he was hesitant to diagnose me with depression as much as he was anxious to tag me as being angry. I had mentioned the diagnosis of Raeder's Syndrome to the therapist and apparently this was intriguing to the Psychiatrist because he kept asking me questions about it and if I felt that stress increased the symptoms. I don't really think that Raeder's Syndrome on it's own is a relevant topic and I felt he wasted a lot of time trying to learn about it from me. He offered me the option of attending a group therapy session which as he and the therapist put it "may make you feel less lonely" and a prescription for anti-depressants (Celexa, 1 tablet daily) although he seemed to think that my problem was more anger and frustration than depression.
I don't know if I should search out further assistance at my own cost or not considering the small amount of concern that this Doctor displayed. I don't feel confident taking the medication that this doctor prescribed because I don't feel that he really understands the complexity of my situation as he only spoke to me for about 10 minutes. I don't recall the name of the Psychiatrist but the first name of the Therapist was ****.
Dr. S, I took your diagnosis of depression very seriously and after all the testing that you have done to come to this conclusion it is a very real possibility I would think. However, the Psychiatrist has stated that he feels that perhaps I am more "angry than depressed". Why then would he prescribe the antidepressants and do you think I am over-reacting by not taking these meds that were prescribed on the basis of a 10 minute meeting? Your opinion is very important to me and I would appreciate it if you could give me your opinion on this. I don't know that going to a "group therapy" session where no one else has MS is going to do me any good...perhaps it would make me less lonely but then so would a knitting club, right? She mentioned the MS Society of Canada and I told her of the response I had from the Vice President of the MS Society in which I was told that possibly I was "Doctor Shopping" and that perhaps I was "wasting precious healthcare dollars...I don't have a lot of faith in the society any longer and will not be pursuing any assistance from them.
I would also appreciate it if you could possibly write a summation of my test results as I am having difficulty remembering what it was that you said. This would be valuable to me should I decide to search out further assistance with this struggle I am trying to deal with. I understand that you asked me to call you should I need any information but it is difficult for me to do things orally and I can't seem to be as competent orally as when I type it out on the computer. I hope you understand.
Sincerely,
So, I figure that she is the one that diagnosed depression to begin with and I would like to have her opinion as to whether or not she thinks I can do better by seeing someone privately...not paid for by our provincial system. I have already checked and hubby's health insurance does not cover a psychiatrist. I will let you know if I hear from her...of course I am not going to hold my breath...gee...for some reason I am getting an attitude about anyone in a white coat...perhaps I should have told the psychiatrist that while he was sitting there in one looking very full of himself! hehe
Rena
Well I took your advice and went to see a Psychiatrist at the University of Alberta Hospital's Psychiatry ward. I was seen by a therapist to begin with and then was seen by a Psychiatrist.
The gist of the visit was that the Therapist took down all of my information and told me that other than perhaps offering me group therapy and a medication there probably wasn't much they could do to help me. Then I was seen by the Psychiatrist who focused on my anger at not being able to get a Neurologist that would care for me and follow up on my MS and did not seem to want to relate any of my symptoms of depression to MS. The only symptom of MS that he related to was the pain in my legs, not even mentioning my cognitive difficulties, my vision difficulties or the numbness and tingling that I regularly experience and I was shuffled from the office rather quickly so I was unable to question why he hadn't taken any of those symptoms into account. As a matter of fact he was hesitant to diagnose me with depression as much as he was anxious to tag me as being angry. I had mentioned the diagnosis of Raeder's Syndrome to the therapist and apparently this was intriguing to the Psychiatrist because he kept asking me questions about it and if I felt that stress increased the symptoms. I don't really think that Raeder's Syndrome on it's own is a relevant topic and I felt he wasted a lot of time trying to learn about it from me. He offered me the option of attending a group therapy session which as he and the therapist put it "may make you feel less lonely" and a prescription for anti-depressants (Celexa, 1 tablet daily) although he seemed to think that my problem was more anger and frustration than depression.
I don't know if I should search out further assistance at my own cost or not considering the small amount of concern that this Doctor displayed. I don't feel confident taking the medication that this doctor prescribed because I don't feel that he really understands the complexity of my situation as he only spoke to me for about 10 minutes. I don't recall the name of the Psychiatrist but the first name of the Therapist was ****.
Dr. S, I took your diagnosis of depression very seriously and after all the testing that you have done to come to this conclusion it is a very real possibility I would think. However, the Psychiatrist has stated that he feels that perhaps I am more "angry than depressed". Why then would he prescribe the antidepressants and do you think I am over-reacting by not taking these meds that were prescribed on the basis of a 10 minute meeting? Your opinion is very important to me and I would appreciate it if you could give me your opinion on this. I don't know that going to a "group therapy" session where no one else has MS is going to do me any good...perhaps it would make me less lonely but then so would a knitting club, right? She mentioned the MS Society of Canada and I told her of the response I had from the Vice President of the MS Society in which I was told that possibly I was "Doctor Shopping" and that perhaps I was "wasting precious healthcare dollars...I don't have a lot of faith in the society any longer and will not be pursuing any assistance from them.
I would also appreciate it if you could possibly write a summation of my test results as I am having difficulty remembering what it was that you said. This would be valuable to me should I decide to search out further assistance with this struggle I am trying to deal with. I understand that you asked me to call you should I need any information but it is difficult for me to do things orally and I can't seem to be as competent orally as when I type it out on the computer. I hope you understand.
Sincerely,
So, I figure that she is the one that diagnosed depression to begin with and I would like to have her opinion as to whether or not she thinks I can do better by seeing someone privately...not paid for by our provincial system. I have already checked and hubby's health insurance does not cover a psychiatrist. I will let you know if I hear from her...of course I am not going to hold my breath...gee...for some reason I am getting an attitude about anyone in a white coat...perhaps I should have told the psychiatrist that while he was sitting there in one looking very full of himself! hehe
Rena
RENA,
SWEETIE, I KEEP GOING AND STAY POSITIVE, I NEED TO SHOW MY CHILDREN THAT LIFE HAS TO GO ON REGARDLESS OF WHAT HAPPENS.MY CHILDREN ARE MY INSPIRATION,THEY REALLY KEEP ME GOING.
MY CHILDREN HAVE BEEN A BIG HELP WITH DEALING WITH THESE DISEASES.
I WON'T LET EITHER DISEASE GET ME,THEY ARE BOTH CHRONIC,BUT TREATABLE WITH MEDS.
YOU HANG IN THERE.
MY OFFER STANDS IF YOU JUST NEED A WEEK OF REST.
YOU ARE ENTITLED TO THE BEST HEALTH CARE AS THE OTHER CANADIANS, YOU HAVE BEEN STUCK IN THE REALM OF NASTY DRS. WITH BAD ATTITUDES.THESE DRS. HAVE FORGOTTEN THEIR OATH.
RENA,
WHEN I SEEN MY PAIN DR THIS MORNING, WE HAD ALONG TALK AND HE ASK HOW DO I DO IT EACH DAY,SOME DAYS ARE A STRUGGLE,THEN HE LAUGHED AND SAID MY HUMOR AND HIGH SPIRITEDNESS DOES IT.WHICH IS TRUE.
I KEEP FIGHTING, GIRL YOU KEEP FIGHTING
GOTTA RUN,HAVE TO SEE MY MS SPECIALIST
HUGS AND PRAYERS
T-LYNN
SWEETIE, I KEEP GOING AND STAY POSITIVE, I NEED TO SHOW MY CHILDREN THAT LIFE HAS TO GO ON REGARDLESS OF WHAT HAPPENS.MY CHILDREN ARE MY INSPIRATION,THEY REALLY KEEP ME GOING.
MY CHILDREN HAVE BEEN A BIG HELP WITH DEALING WITH THESE DISEASES.
I WON'T LET EITHER DISEASE GET ME,THEY ARE BOTH CHRONIC,BUT TREATABLE WITH MEDS.
YOU HANG IN THERE.
MY OFFER STANDS IF YOU JUST NEED A WEEK OF REST.
YOU ARE ENTITLED TO THE BEST HEALTH CARE AS THE OTHER CANADIANS, YOU HAVE BEEN STUCK IN THE REALM OF NASTY DRS. WITH BAD ATTITUDES.THESE DRS. HAVE FORGOTTEN THEIR OATH.
RENA,
WHEN I SEEN MY PAIN DR THIS MORNING, WE HAD ALONG TALK AND HE ASK HOW DO I DO IT EACH DAY,SOME DAYS ARE A STRUGGLE,THEN HE LAUGHED AND SAID MY HUMOR AND HIGH SPIRITEDNESS DOES IT.WHICH IS TRUE.
I KEEP FIGHTING, GIRL YOU KEEP FIGHTING
GOTTA RUN,HAVE TO SEE MY MS SPECIALIST
HUGS AND PRAYERS
T-LYNN
HONEY...NOW YOU HAVE GONE AND MADE ME CRY!
I SINCERELY APPRECIATE YOUR OFFER OF YOUR HOME. A SHARE OF YOUR HUNKY NEURO AND SOME GOOD ITALIAN COOKING..YOU TRULY ARE A WONDERFUL PERSON TO OFFER THAT TO SOMEONE YOU ONLY KNOW ON THE INTERNET!
PLEASE DON'T GET THE WRONG IDEA HONEY...I DO APPRECIATE THE OFFER BUT I SIMPLY CAN'T RUN AWAY FROM MY ONGOING WAR AND I DON'T KNOW THAT I WOULD BE ABLE TO HANDLE A TRIP AWAY FROM HOME...I ALMOST DIDN'T MAKE IT WALKING THROUGH THE HOSPITAL YESTERDAY...IT IS SOOO HUGE AND WE COULDN'T FIND A WHEELCHAIR...
I AM GOING TO LEAN ON MY FRIENDS HERE AND I WILL CONTINUE FIGHTING BECAUSE I HAVE TO. NO ONE CAN DO IT FOR ME...I KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING IN MY BODY, I JUST NEED TO ENSURE THAT I HAVE THE SAME CARE THAT ALL OTHER CANADIANS ARE ENTITLED TO AND THAT I AM ENTITLED TO...OR SO I THOUGHT.
THE THOUGHT OF FILING COMPLAINTS WITH THE OMBUDSMAN AND CAPITAL HEALTH REALLY IS OVERWHELMING AND I DON'T WANT TO HAVE TO DO IT BUT AFTER I SEE THE GP ON OCTOBER 30TH, IF SHE DOESN'T CHANGE HER TUNE, I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE.
IT TERRIFIES ME TO THINK THAT THERE IS A POSSIBLITY THAT MY NEXT RELAPSE COULD SEND ME INTO THE REALM OF PPMS AND I CAN'T JUST SIT BY AN LET THAT POSSIBLY HAPPEN DUE TO A CHILDISH SPECIALIST THAT CAN'T LET THINGS GO AND FEELS SHE NEEDS TO PUNISH ME FOR SEEING ANOTHER DOCTOR!
T-LYNN...I DON'T KNOW HOW YOU HAVE MANAGED TO GET THROUGH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE AND STILL HAVE THE UPBEAT, POSITIVE ATTITUDE THAT YOU DISPLAY HERE...YOU ARE STRONGER THAN MOST AND I ADMIRE YOU FOR IT. THERE ARE MANY THAT HAVEN'T BEEN THROUGH HALF OF WHAT YOU HAVE ENDURED AND HAVE NOT MANAGED TO HOLD THEIR HEAD HALF AS HIGH AS YOU CAN HOLD YOURS HONEY! YOU SHOULD BE VERY PROUD OF YOURSELF AND KNOW THAT I HOLD YOU AS A ROLE MODEL IN THIS STRUGGLE CALLED LIFE. PLEASE STAY CLOSE AND KNOW THAT I AM WATCHING OVER YOU AS YOU ARE WATCHING OVER ME OK?
LOTS OF LOVE,
RENA
I SINCERELY APPRECIATE YOUR OFFER OF YOUR HOME. A SHARE OF YOUR HUNKY NEURO AND SOME GOOD ITALIAN COOKING..YOU TRULY ARE A WONDERFUL PERSON TO OFFER THAT TO SOMEONE YOU ONLY KNOW ON THE INTERNET!
PLEASE DON'T GET THE WRONG IDEA HONEY...I DO APPRECIATE THE OFFER BUT I SIMPLY CAN'T RUN AWAY FROM MY ONGOING WAR AND I DON'T KNOW THAT I WOULD BE ABLE TO HANDLE A TRIP AWAY FROM HOME...I ALMOST DIDN'T MAKE IT WALKING THROUGH THE HOSPITAL YESTERDAY...IT IS SOOO HUGE AND WE COULDN'T FIND A WHEELCHAIR...
I AM GOING TO LEAN ON MY FRIENDS HERE AND I WILL CONTINUE FIGHTING BECAUSE I HAVE TO. NO ONE CAN DO IT FOR ME...I KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING IN MY BODY, I JUST NEED TO ENSURE THAT I HAVE THE SAME CARE THAT ALL OTHER CANADIANS ARE ENTITLED TO AND THAT I AM ENTITLED TO...OR SO I THOUGHT.
THE THOUGHT OF FILING COMPLAINTS WITH THE OMBUDSMAN AND CAPITAL HEALTH REALLY IS OVERWHELMING AND I DON'T WANT TO HAVE TO DO IT BUT AFTER I SEE THE GP ON OCTOBER 30TH, IF SHE DOESN'T CHANGE HER TUNE, I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE.
IT TERRIFIES ME TO THINK THAT THERE IS A POSSIBLITY THAT MY NEXT RELAPSE COULD SEND ME INTO THE REALM OF PPMS AND I CAN'T JUST SIT BY AN LET THAT POSSIBLY HAPPEN DUE TO A CHILDISH SPECIALIST THAT CAN'T LET THINGS GO AND FEELS SHE NEEDS TO PUNISH ME FOR SEEING ANOTHER DOCTOR!
T-LYNN...I DON'T KNOW HOW YOU HAVE MANAGED TO GET THROUGH EVERYTHING YOU HAVE AND STILL HAVE THE UPBEAT, POSITIVE ATTITUDE THAT YOU DISPLAY HERE...YOU ARE STRONGER THAN MOST AND I ADMIRE YOU FOR IT. THERE ARE MANY THAT HAVEN'T BEEN THROUGH HALF OF WHAT YOU HAVE ENDURED AND HAVE NOT MANAGED TO HOLD THEIR HEAD HALF AS HIGH AS YOU CAN HOLD YOURS HONEY! YOU SHOULD BE VERY PROUD OF YOURSELF AND KNOW THAT I HOLD YOU AS A ROLE MODEL IN THIS STRUGGLE CALLED LIFE. PLEASE STAY CLOSE AND KNOW THAT I AM WATCHING OVER YOU AS YOU ARE WATCHING OVER ME OK?
LOTS OF LOVE,
RENA
RENA ,
SWEETIE I WISH YOU COULD COME TO THE STATES,I HAVE A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE AND I COULD GET YOU INTO MY NEURO AT A WHIM ( HE'S A HUNK TO).
YOU COULD STAY AS LONG AS NEEDED.
CAN I COME TO CANADA AND DO SOME B U T T KICKEN FOR YA.I'D DO IT IN A HEART BEAT.EVEN WITH MY LEG BRACES!!!!!
SWEETIE, I'D EVEN FLY YOU HERE, IF IT MEANT YOU GETTING QUALITY CARE.
I HAVE SAT AND CRIED FOR YOU, I AM REALLY HONKED OFF,BEYOND THAT POINT WITH YOUR SITUATION AND HOW YOU HAVE BEEN MISTREATED AND ABUSED BY A HEALTH SYSTEM.
YOUR SUCH A VERY KIND HEARTED SOUL THAT HAS GOTTEN ME THROUGH SO MUCH IN THE LAST YEAR.ALL MY MS ATTACKS,THE BREAK-IN AND MY TRAGIC HOUSE FIRE.
THE HECK YOU HAVE ENDURED AND YOU TOOK THE TIME TO GET ME THROUGH ONE OF THE MOST EMOTIONAL TIMES IN MY LIFE I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED.
IF YOU JUST WANT A VACATION FROM IT ALL YOU JUST SAY THE WORD,I WILL HAVE YOU FLOWN HERE FOR A VISIT AND SOME REST,LAUGHTER AND SOME GOOD ITALIAN COOKING,HECK MAYBE I'D EVEN DRINK A WHITE RUSSIAN.
YOU JUST SAY THE WORD AND ITS DONE.BUT I DON'T HAVE A ROOM LIKE MOKI'S.SOMETIMES A PRIVATE GET AWAY HELPS SO PLEASE CONSIDER IT.
I HAVE A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR!!!!!! AND 2 WONDERFUL KIDS AT HOME.
I WENT THROUGH A ROUGH TIME AFTER MY 2 BACK SURGERIES IN 1998 AND 1999 AND A INTERNET FRIEND FROM ANOTHER FORUM OFFERRED TO FLY ME TO HER HOUSE AND I DID IT,IT WAS THE BEST HELP IN THE WORLD.
IT DIDN'T SOLVE THE MEDICAL ASPECT,BUT MIND AND SOUL IT DID.
I'M APPAULED AT THE TREATMENT YOU HAVE RECEIVED,YOU SO DESERVE SO MUCH BETTER AND MORE.
FOR NOW I CAN SEND YOU HUGS AND PRAYERS AND KNOW I AM HERE FOR YOU.
KEEP VENTING YOUR ANGER,DON'T HOLD IT IN,WE ARE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP,YOUR FRIEND AND YOU HAVE BECOME A CYBER SISTER.
YOU HAVE GIVEN SO MANY HERE STRENGTH,LOVE AND CARE,WE SO MUCH APPRECIATE IT.
HUGS
T-LYNN
SWEETIE I WISH YOU COULD COME TO THE STATES,I HAVE A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE AND I COULD GET YOU INTO MY NEURO AT A WHIM ( HE'S A HUNK TO).
YOU COULD STAY AS LONG AS NEEDED.
CAN I COME TO CANADA AND DO SOME B U T T KICKEN FOR YA.I'D DO IT IN A HEART BEAT.EVEN WITH MY LEG BRACES!!!!!
SWEETIE, I'D EVEN FLY YOU HERE, IF IT MEANT YOU GETTING QUALITY CARE.
I HAVE SAT AND CRIED FOR YOU, I AM REALLY HONKED OFF,BEYOND THAT POINT WITH YOUR SITUATION AND HOW YOU HAVE BEEN MISTREATED AND ABUSED BY A HEALTH SYSTEM.
YOUR SUCH A VERY KIND HEARTED SOUL THAT HAS GOTTEN ME THROUGH SO MUCH IN THE LAST YEAR.ALL MY MS ATTACKS,THE BREAK-IN AND MY TRAGIC HOUSE FIRE.
THE HECK YOU HAVE ENDURED AND YOU TOOK THE TIME TO GET ME THROUGH ONE OF THE MOST EMOTIONAL TIMES IN MY LIFE I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED.
IF YOU JUST WANT A VACATION FROM IT ALL YOU JUST SAY THE WORD,I WILL HAVE YOU FLOWN HERE FOR A VISIT AND SOME REST,LAUGHTER AND SOME GOOD ITALIAN COOKING,HECK MAYBE I'D EVEN DRINK A WHITE RUSSIAN.
YOU JUST SAY THE WORD AND ITS DONE.BUT I DON'T HAVE A ROOM LIKE MOKI'S.SOMETIMES A PRIVATE GET AWAY HELPS SO PLEASE CONSIDER IT.
I HAVE A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR!!!!!! AND 2 WONDERFUL KIDS AT HOME.
I WENT THROUGH A ROUGH TIME AFTER MY 2 BACK SURGERIES IN 1998 AND 1999 AND A INTERNET FRIEND FROM ANOTHER FORUM OFFERRED TO FLY ME TO HER HOUSE AND I DID IT,IT WAS THE BEST HELP IN THE WORLD.
IT DIDN'T SOLVE THE MEDICAL ASPECT,BUT MIND AND SOUL IT DID.
I'M APPAULED AT THE TREATMENT YOU HAVE RECEIVED,YOU SO DESERVE SO MUCH BETTER AND MORE.
FOR NOW I CAN SEND YOU HUGS AND PRAYERS AND KNOW I AM HERE FOR YOU.
KEEP VENTING YOUR ANGER,DON'T HOLD IT IN,WE ARE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP,YOUR FRIEND AND YOU HAVE BECOME A CYBER SISTER.
YOU HAVE GIVEN SO MANY HERE STRENGTH,LOVE AND CARE,WE SO MUCH APPRECIATE IT.
HUGS
T-LYNN
Looks like time for Ada and I to put on our chain mail and come and slay your nasty head pain before it comes back full force! Battle stations, Ada!
It looks like db has some great information for you; I hope that they are truly as concerned and caring as they state!
If you do see the psychiatrist again, try what's known as the broken record technique. Continue bringing the conversation back to what the true issues are. You're not getting treatment for a disease that you've been diagnosed with, and that studies show that this disease continues to do damage, and needs to be treated.
You can have several tracks on this record, about your pain, your vision, the fact that depression can come from the MS, and your depression is a symptom, not the major issue. That your depression and anger need to be fully evaluated before you're medicated. That your "whole picture" needs to be seen, not one section of it.
I suppose that would work with the GP, too. Maybe even have copies of the information that she's refused to consider, and then you can note "Doctor refused to consider information vital to my health".
I'm just glad you have your hubby there to hold you and share your disgust and want to just haul you off to the lake so you can take a vacation from it all for a while.
You gather your reserves and start thinking about "Voicing a Concern about your Care".
Sending you much love, several hugs, and hopes that the pain retreats.
Hugs,
Kathy
It looks like db has some great information for you; I hope that they are truly as concerned and caring as they state!
If you do see the psychiatrist again, try what's known as the broken record technique. Continue bringing the conversation back to what the true issues are. You're not getting treatment for a disease that you've been diagnosed with, and that studies show that this disease continues to do damage, and needs to be treated.
You can have several tracks on this record, about your pain, your vision, the fact that depression can come from the MS, and your depression is a symptom, not the major issue. That your depression and anger need to be fully evaluated before you're medicated. That your "whole picture" needs to be seen, not one section of it.
I suppose that would work with the GP, too. Maybe even have copies of the information that she's refused to consider, and then you can note "Doctor refused to consider information vital to my health".
I'm just glad you have your hubby there to hold you and share your disgust and want to just haul you off to the lake so you can take a vacation from it all for a while.
You gather your reserves and start thinking about "Voicing a Concern about your Care".
Sending you much love, several hugs, and hopes that the pain retreats.
Hugs,
Kathy
I am going to start a few letters today and see where I get...my objective isn't to be a pain in the butt...I just want the treatment I am entitled to and they do say that the squeaky wheel gets the grease...let's see just how squeaky I can get!
Hugs,
Rena
Hugs,
Rena
Thank you so much for getting this information for me my dear...I really wasn't sure where to start although I did just recently get the address for Alberta Health Services. I will be starting some letters today and I have the time to ensure that I do them properly and will pass them by a few members here before sending them.
Again db...thank you for giving me this assistance...you are a wonderful person with a good head on your shoulders and everyone can use a friend like you!
Lots of Hugs,
Rena
Again db...thank you for giving me this assistance...you are a wonderful person with a good head on your shoulders and everyone can use a friend like you!
Lots of Hugs,
Rena
Hopefully after you rest a day or two you will muster the energy to follow-up on the infomation DV has provided. You should be getting treatment for your MS and the accompanying symptoms and if you have to be a pain in the rear to get it, so be it.
My best, Lulu
My best, Lulu
Here is the info on how to get help from Capital Health with a concern about your medical care:
www .capitalhealth .ca/ AboutUs/ ContactUs /patientrelations /default .htm
"Patient Relations is available to support the relationship between the health-care team and the patients, families, and clients that access Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area programs and services. Because your feedback matters, the organization provides individuals with the opportunity to express compliments and voice concerns through Patient Relations.
Voicing a Concern about Your Care
Good communication with your care team is important at all times, especially if you have a concern. Most concerns are best resolved by talking with your care team; however, others within Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area are also available to help you. For help with a concern, please take the following steps:
Because your care team knows you best, first discuss your concern with your team. You may also ask the manager of the program or service to help you with your concern.
If your concern is unresolved after completing step one, please contact Patient Relations at:
Telephone: 780-482-8080
Fax: 780-482-8500
Mailing Address:
Mail Slot 57, 11111 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5K 0L4
Email: Online Concern Form
When you communicate your concern, please provide your name and a daytime phone number. It is Patient Relation's process to connect with you personally to discuss your concern.
A coordinator will call you within three business days of your first contact with Patient Relations to discuss the concern with you in more detail and to explain the review process.
Once the appropriate consents are granted, a coordinator will begin the review process. This may include collecting information from the health record and discussing the concern with the appropriate staff.
Your coordinator will be in contact with you throughout the review and will ensure your concern is followed up in a fair way.
Is there a time limit for expressing a concern?
No. Patient Relations reviews concerns when they are received. However, it is best to bring your concern forward quickly, so we can address it in the best possible way.
Will things become worse for me if I raise a concern?
No. Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area is committed to addressing all concerns in a fair and objective manner. Your feedback is important to the organization, and concerns are seen as opportunities to improve services.
If completing step two does not resolve your concern, please contact the Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area Deputy Patient Concerns Officer at:
Telephone: 780-482-8988
8440-112 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2B7
The role of the Deputy Patient Concerns Officer is to ensure that the patient concerns resolution process has been followed.
If you have a question or concern about the fairness of how your concern was handled by the Deputy Patient Concerns Officer, you may contact the Alberta Ombudsman Office at:
Telephone: 780-427-2756
Fax: 780-427-2759
2800, 10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 5C3
An online complaint form is available at: www.ombudsman.ab.ca
Alberta Health and Wellness has recently released a booklet entitled, "Resolving Concerns within Alberta's Health System." This information is for those receiving health services, including family members. It outlines contact information for service providers and organizations for resolving concerns within the health care system.
Privacy & Confidentiality:
Alberta Health Services protects the privacy of individuals receiving health care in accordance with the Health Information Act. To properly review and resolve concerns, we work with the patient, or an authorized representative (usually a close family member), to gather and share information about the care or services received.
Health Advice and Information
If you require health advice or information, you may contact Health Link Alberta at 780-408-LINK (5465) anytime — 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you're calling from outside the Edmonton area, call toll free 1-866-408-LINK (5465)."
www .capitalhealth .ca/ AboutUs/ ContactUs /patientrelations /default .htm
"Patient Relations is available to support the relationship between the health-care team and the patients, families, and clients that access Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area programs and services. Because your feedback matters, the organization provides individuals with the opportunity to express compliments and voice concerns through Patient Relations.
Voicing a Concern about Your Care
Good communication with your care team is important at all times, especially if you have a concern. Most concerns are best resolved by talking with your care team; however, others within Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area are also available to help you. For help with a concern, please take the following steps:
Because your care team knows you best, first discuss your concern with your team. You may also ask the manager of the program or service to help you with your concern.
If your concern is unresolved after completing step one, please contact Patient Relations at:
Telephone: 780-482-8080
Fax: 780-482-8500
Mailing Address:
Mail Slot 57, 11111 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5K 0L4
Email: Online Concern Form
When you communicate your concern, please provide your name and a daytime phone number. It is Patient Relation's process to connect with you personally to discuss your concern.
A coordinator will call you within three business days of your first contact with Patient Relations to discuss the concern with you in more detail and to explain the review process.
Once the appropriate consents are granted, a coordinator will begin the review process. This may include collecting information from the health record and discussing the concern with the appropriate staff.
Your coordinator will be in contact with you throughout the review and will ensure your concern is followed up in a fair way.
Is there a time limit for expressing a concern?
No. Patient Relations reviews concerns when they are received. However, it is best to bring your concern forward quickly, so we can address it in the best possible way.
Will things become worse for me if I raise a concern?
No. Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area is committed to addressing all concerns in a fair and objective manner. Your feedback is important to the organization, and concerns are seen as opportunities to improve services.
If completing step two does not resolve your concern, please contact the Alberta Health Services - Edmonton area Deputy Patient Concerns Officer at:
Telephone: 780-482-8988
8440-112 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2B7
The role of the Deputy Patient Concerns Officer is to ensure that the patient concerns resolution process has been followed.
If you have a question or concern about the fairness of how your concern was handled by the Deputy Patient Concerns Officer, you may contact the Alberta Ombudsman Office at:
Telephone: 780-427-2756
Fax: 780-427-2759
2800, 10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 5C3
An online complaint form is available at: www.ombudsman.ab.ca
Alberta Health and Wellness has recently released a booklet entitled, "Resolving Concerns within Alberta's Health System." This information is for those receiving health services, including family members. It outlines contact information for service providers and organizations for resolving concerns within the health care system.
Privacy & Confidentiality:
Alberta Health Services protects the privacy of individuals receiving health care in accordance with the Health Information Act. To properly review and resolve concerns, we work with the patient, or an authorized representative (usually a close family member), to gather and share information about the care or services received.
Health Advice and Information
If you require health advice or information, you may contact Health Link Alberta at 780-408-LINK (5465) anytime — 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you're calling from outside the Edmonton area, call toll free 1-866-408-LINK (5465)."
Rena,
I just don't know what to say, that hasn't already been said.
Your treatment was horrifying. Who knows how the interp even went from the nurse to the Dr. reference what you told her.
I don't understand this medical system at all, but I do see this for what it is, and I don't have a word to describe it because it's beyond cruel. It truly is.
You need to be treated for MS - You need to be treated for depression caused by MS.
You are not in good care, and I don't know what to say. All I can say is that I wish this were not happening to you, and it's painful. I'm sorry Rena.
Love,
Shell
I just don't know what to say, that hasn't already been said.
Your treatment was horrifying. Who knows how the interp even went from the nurse to the Dr. reference what you told her.
I don't understand this medical system at all, but I do see this for what it is, and I don't have a word to describe it because it's beyond cruel. It truly is.
You need to be treated for MS - You need to be treated for depression caused by MS.
You are not in good care, and I don't know what to say. All I can say is that I wish this were not happening to you, and it's painful. I'm sorry Rena.
Love,
Shell
Oh yeah...I forgot to tell you this. The therapist asked me if I had ever been seen at the MS Clinic there at the hospital. I explained that it was Dr. ****** that had diagnosed me back in 1993 and I had to go back to him in Feb. 2007 for the Raeder's Syndrome because the evil neuro wouldn't see me at that time. You should have seen the look on her face! It was like she had seen the light and she asked why I stopped seeing him after being diagnosed I said that I am quite sure you people here have heard of his manner and you would be quite understanding as to why I didn't want to be seen by him to which she responded, "yes, enough said."!!! So even the psychiatry department knows of what a tyrant my last neurologist was and nothing has been done about him...at least I know it's not just me that feels this way...not that I ever did think it was just me...his reputation is city wide and it's not good!
Sorry but I had to throw that one in..
Hugs,
Rena
Sorry but I had to throw that one in..
Hugs,
Rena
Well..I went our for supper last night and had 1 White Russian but the ice pick pain in my head was so unbearable I really didn't enjoy it at all :(...then my prime rib was sub-standard...hubbies and mom's were fine but mine was all fat and gristle and when I complained they looked at what the waitress took away and agreed and offered me a new piece (after the dinner was over) or a free dessert (no thanks). So we went to mom's and chatted for a while and then I came home and took an Oxy and went to bed cause the pain was so bad. Now I feel like my head is in a permanent fog and the pain is just sitting on the edge of my head waiting to attack with full force...my left side of my face is all numb and I just know that "the" pain is on it's way back :((
During the appointment yesterday about the only reference the "doctor" made to my MS was the pain in my legs. He didn't refer to the vision difficulties, balance issues, fatigue, cognitive issues...ANYTHING...only the pain in my legs. I was under the impression that "depression" can be a symptom of MS but he never, in any way, shape or form put the two together. I had told the therapist about the Raeder's syndrome and how I am not being treated for it either and I think that may have been a mistake because he kept going back to the pain from the Raeder's and kept asking questions about it...he had a whole pile of books behind his head...maybe I should have told him to look it up if he is that interested in it!
Perhaps he felt that because my (depression) anger is due to the lack of health care I am receiving he knows that it is a losing battle that I haven't a chance in h*ll of winning so why bother...who knows?
All I know is that I seem to have hit yet another brick wall and I am in pain and I am tired and I am not the one that said I was depressed in the first place and this was not my idea...I was advised to seek help by a psychologist after completeing all of those tests and it hasn't gotten me anywhere has it? Perhaps I should go back to the hospital today and just let this "psychiatrist" know that if I wasn't depressed yesterday...after seeing him and getting a nice pat on the head and a prescription for some anti-depressants that I am not so sure I need if I am "angry moreso than depressed"...I am feeling more than a little depressed AND angry today and really...where else can I go other than what db said...letter to ombudsman of capital health, letter to my MP, perhaps get a lawyer...
WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO DO THIS? I DON'T FEEL STRONG ENOUGH TO FIGHT THIS ANY LONGER AND WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO? I told the therapist that I feel like I am being punished for something I didn't do but that I am always made to feel as though it's all my own fault for not getting any help with this whole situation and that is a large part of my feeling depressed. It was never brought up again.
Hubby asked me to make an appoinment with the lying gp and I made one this morning but I can't see her until October 30th. He is going to go with me and we are going to ask one more time if she will refer me to a new Neurologist and if she says that she doesn't know any other neurologists we are going to tell her that we are going to start writing letters and that I am going to seek legal help. I will tell her AGAIN that I have offered her information in the past documenting the fact that "inactive" MS does not exist and she has turned her back on it time and again. I will remind her that when Dr. ***** said she would only see me at her discretion and that I was to deal directly through my gp that she very clearly stated that she didn't know anything about MS and although I offered her the documentation on how important the DMD's are she chose to ignore it and therefore I feel that I have no other option but to seek outside and legal assistance.
So...I guess until October 30th I will have lots of time to play in Moki's room and I am sure it will be much more beneficial than what that psychiatrist and his cohort had to offer...I told hubby that I would be better off joining an embroidery group or something of the sort and I would probably get more help than going to group that I saw yesterday that meets every Wednesday...the group they wanted me to join. I was told outright that none of the people have MS...so how would they even know what I am talking about?
Oh yeah...I forgot to tell you...the therapist asked me if I had ever looked into getting counselling from the MS Society?!! Well, I burst out laughing and she just looked at me very bewildered...I told her about the detailed letter I had written to the MS Society and the response I had received about "doctor shopping and wasting precious health care dollars" and she seemed quite shocked! I told her of the other conversations that I have had in the past about being black balled by the neurologists etc. and she made note of it but that subject was dropped pretty quickly.
So here I am...wasted yet another precious day of my hubby's vacation...he is not a happy camper whatsoever but he hasn't given up either so that is a good thing right? Again...I really appreciate all of your support and I will take a little bit from each post and tuck it away for future reference. In the meantime, I will just keep on going the best that I can I guess and if I hear from the psychiatrist I am going to tell him exactly what I think of his lack of interest in someone that he is getting paid to see regardless of what he does or doesn't do to help them. I am also going to tell him that he will be mentioned in the letter to the Ombudsman that I think I should probably start now...I have until October 30th to send it once the lying gp turns me down yet again.
Lots of Hugs and Thanks,
Rena
During the appointment yesterday about the only reference the "doctor" made to my MS was the pain in my legs. He didn't refer to the vision difficulties, balance issues, fatigue, cognitive issues...ANYTHING...only the pain in my legs. I was under the impression that "depression" can be a symptom of MS but he never, in any way, shape or form put the two together. I had told the therapist about the Raeder's syndrome and how I am not being treated for it either and I think that may have been a mistake because he kept going back to the pain from the Raeder's and kept asking questions about it...he had a whole pile of books behind his head...maybe I should have told him to look it up if he is that interested in it!
Perhaps he felt that because my (depression) anger is due to the lack of health care I am receiving he knows that it is a losing battle that I haven't a chance in h*ll of winning so why bother...who knows?
All I know is that I seem to have hit yet another brick wall and I am in pain and I am tired and I am not the one that said I was depressed in the first place and this was not my idea...I was advised to seek help by a psychologist after completeing all of those tests and it hasn't gotten me anywhere has it? Perhaps I should go back to the hospital today and just let this "psychiatrist" know that if I wasn't depressed yesterday...after seeing him and getting a nice pat on the head and a prescription for some anti-depressants that I am not so sure I need if I am "angry moreso than depressed"...I am feeling more than a little depressed AND angry today and really...where else can I go other than what db said...letter to ombudsman of capital health, letter to my MP, perhaps get a lawyer...
WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO DO THIS? I DON'T FEEL STRONG ENOUGH TO FIGHT THIS ANY LONGER AND WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO? I told the therapist that I feel like I am being punished for something I didn't do but that I am always made to feel as though it's all my own fault for not getting any help with this whole situation and that is a large part of my feeling depressed. It was never brought up again.
Hubby asked me to make an appoinment with the lying gp and I made one this morning but I can't see her until October 30th. He is going to go with me and we are going to ask one more time if she will refer me to a new Neurologist and if she says that she doesn't know any other neurologists we are going to tell her that we are going to start writing letters and that I am going to seek legal help. I will tell her AGAIN that I have offered her information in the past documenting the fact that "inactive" MS does not exist and she has turned her back on it time and again. I will remind her that when Dr. ***** said she would only see me at her discretion and that I was to deal directly through my gp that she very clearly stated that she didn't know anything about MS and although I offered her the documentation on how important the DMD's are she chose to ignore it and therefore I feel that I have no other option but to seek outside and legal assistance.
So...I guess until October 30th I will have lots of time to play in Moki's room and I am sure it will be much more beneficial than what that psychiatrist and his cohort had to offer...I told hubby that I would be better off joining an embroidery group or something of the sort and I would probably get more help than going to group that I saw yesterday that meets every Wednesday...the group they wanted me to join. I was told outright that none of the people have MS...so how would they even know what I am talking about?
Oh yeah...I forgot to tell you...the therapist asked me if I had ever looked into getting counselling from the MS Society?!! Well, I burst out laughing and she just looked at me very bewildered...I told her about the detailed letter I had written to the MS Society and the response I had received about "doctor shopping and wasting precious health care dollars" and she seemed quite shocked! I told her of the other conversations that I have had in the past about being black balled by the neurologists etc. and she made note of it but that subject was dropped pretty quickly.
So here I am...wasted yet another precious day of my hubby's vacation...he is not a happy camper whatsoever but he hasn't given up either so that is a good thing right? Again...I really appreciate all of your support and I will take a little bit from each post and tuck it away for future reference. In the meantime, I will just keep on going the best that I can I guess and if I hear from the psychiatrist I am going to tell him exactly what I think of his lack of interest in someone that he is getting paid to see regardless of what he does or doesn't do to help them. I am also going to tell him that he will be mentioned in the letter to the Ombudsman that I think I should probably start now...I have until October 30th to send it once the lying gp turns me down yet again.
Lots of Hugs and Thanks,
Rena
You should have a White Russian for your main course!!!! Probably do you a lot more good that that so-called doctor!!
Hugs & Prayers
Maggie
Hugs & Prayers
Maggie
RENA,
SWEETIE,
THIS HONKS ME OFF !!!!!!
WHAT AN UNEXCUSABLE IDIOT, HE HAD NO CONCERN FOR YOUR WELL BEING OR THE WILLINGNESS TO FURTHER EXPLORE THE ANGER YOU HAVE TOWARDS THE HEALTH CARE YOU HAVE RECEIVED.HECK WHO WOULDN'T BE PEEVED.
THE SHRINK ,IN MY OPINION DID NOT HAVE YOU IN HIS BEST INTEREST,HECK SENDING YOU TO A GROUP SESSION TO DISGUSS ANGER AND SO FORTH,IT WAS HIS JOB TO EXPLORE THE AVENUES FIRST.
HECK HOW DOES HE KNOW IF YOU WOULDN'T OF WENT DONKEY CONG ALL OVER THE PEOPLE IN THE GROUP SESSION.
THIS DR. DOESN'T DESERVE TO PRACTICE MEDICINE,HE WAS IRRESPONSIBLE IN YOUR CARE,DISMISSIVE AND VERY UNCARING ON YOUR STATE OF MIND.
I BEST STOP HERE----OH HOW THIS HONKS ME OFF , YOU DESERVE SO MUCH BETTER.
THIS IDIOT--YOU HAVE MS---THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ADDRESSED.
IF YOU PLAY IN MOKI'S NEW ROOM COULD YA PUT IT ON VIDEO AND POST IT FOR US .(LOL)
REMEMBER YOU HAVE THE BEST SUPPORT GROUP HERE,WE LOVE YA.
I WISH I COULD DO MORE FOR YA,I'M SENDING YA HUGS AND PRAYERS.
HAVE A WHITE RUSSIAN FOR ME,WITH MY MEDS, A FEW SIPS I'D BE UNDER THE TABLE OR A DANCING ON IT.
T-LYNN
SWEETIE,
THIS HONKS ME OFF !!!!!!
WHAT AN UNEXCUSABLE IDIOT, HE HAD NO CONCERN FOR YOUR WELL BEING OR THE WILLINGNESS TO FURTHER EXPLORE THE ANGER YOU HAVE TOWARDS THE HEALTH CARE YOU HAVE RECEIVED.HECK WHO WOULDN'T BE PEEVED.
THE SHRINK ,IN MY OPINION DID NOT HAVE YOU IN HIS BEST INTEREST,HECK SENDING YOU TO A GROUP SESSION TO DISGUSS ANGER AND SO FORTH,IT WAS HIS JOB TO EXPLORE THE AVENUES FIRST.
HECK HOW DOES HE KNOW IF YOU WOULDN'T OF WENT DONKEY CONG ALL OVER THE PEOPLE IN THE GROUP SESSION.
THIS DR. DOESN'T DESERVE TO PRACTICE MEDICINE,HE WAS IRRESPONSIBLE IN YOUR CARE,DISMISSIVE AND VERY UNCARING ON YOUR STATE OF MIND.
I BEST STOP HERE----OH HOW THIS HONKS ME OFF , YOU DESERVE SO MUCH BETTER.
THIS IDIOT--YOU HAVE MS---THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ADDRESSED.
IF YOU PLAY IN MOKI'S NEW ROOM COULD YA PUT IT ON VIDEO AND POST IT FOR US .(LOL)
REMEMBER YOU HAVE THE BEST SUPPORT GROUP HERE,WE LOVE YA.
I WISH I COULD DO MORE FOR YA,I'M SENDING YA HUGS AND PRAYERS.
HAVE A WHITE RUSSIAN FOR ME,WITH MY MEDS, A FEW SIPS I'D BE UNDER THE TABLE OR A DANCING ON IT.
T-LYNN
I don't mean to hijack Rena's post, but as a related aside, I'm often bemused that when a Canadian encounters shoddy service from health care providers, it so often seems to be automatically attributed to the Canadian health care system as a whole, aka universal health care, 'national health care', so-called 'socialized medicine', and other such misnomers.
There is no question that Rena's treatment has been deplorable and even apparently unethical. Yet, there are so many tales told on this board of incompetent/ lazy/insensitive/moronic/patronizing neuros, long wait lists, lost records, conflicting diagnoses, misinterpreted radiology reports, lost labs, etc etc etc. , tales told by patients from the UK, Australia, the US, and elsewhere. It would seem to me that medical incompetence, excessive bureaucracy, and malpractice knows no national boundaries. Pathetic, but true.
I make this last point (again, I know, I'm a broken record here) only because I do not want Rena to lose hope. I have had the exact opposite experience, at every turn, in the very same Canadian province. You all have heard my story: I couldn't ask for a better GP, and my bright, young, Saskatchewan-educated neurologist is following me appropriately and professionally. All my diagnostics have been done very quickly. I have an ophthalmologist and a neuro-opthamologist, both of whom will see me on short notice as needed. I do not need to go through my GP to see any of these specialists, only for the very first visit with each, by way of a formal referral, which my GP was always prompt in making. I am never made to wait for physician forms, for disability benefits, driver's medical, etc. All of the services ans supports that Rena needs so badly.
So I add this remark for Rena and any other countrymen/women who have had negative experiences. Please don't give up, excellent health care is out there, please keep looking till you find it.
I also make these comments so that our US counterparts understand that the universal principles of health care as laid out in the Canada Health Act need not be equated with poor care. With such an important election coming up for you, I truly hope that more affordable health care will be available to you in the coming years.
There is no question that Rena's treatment has been deplorable and even apparently unethical. Yet, there are so many tales told on this board of incompetent/ lazy/insensitive/moronic/patronizing neuros, long wait lists, lost records, conflicting diagnoses, misinterpreted radiology reports, lost labs, etc etc etc. , tales told by patients from the UK, Australia, the US, and elsewhere. It would seem to me that medical incompetence, excessive bureaucracy, and malpractice knows no national boundaries. Pathetic, but true.
I make this last point (again, I know, I'm a broken record here) only because I do not want Rena to lose hope. I have had the exact opposite experience, at every turn, in the very same Canadian province. You all have heard my story: I couldn't ask for a better GP, and my bright, young, Saskatchewan-educated neurologist is following me appropriately and professionally. All my diagnostics have been done very quickly. I have an ophthalmologist and a neuro-opthamologist, both of whom will see me on short notice as needed. I do not need to go through my GP to see any of these specialists, only for the very first visit with each, by way of a formal referral, which my GP was always prompt in making. I am never made to wait for physician forms, for disability benefits, driver's medical, etc. All of the services ans supports that Rena needs so badly.
So I add this remark for Rena and any other countrymen/women who have had negative experiences. Please don't give up, excellent health care is out there, please keep looking till you find it.
I also make these comments so that our US counterparts understand that the universal principles of health care as laid out in the Canada Health Act need not be equated with poor care. With such an important election coming up for you, I truly hope that more affordable health care will be available to you in the coming years.
Like Julie, I too was a registered social worker before going into HR (didn't know we had that in common, Julie!) and my reaction is the same. Rena, I am puzzled as to why you would be immediately referred to group, when it would seem a thorough assessment by this psychiatrist has yet to be conducted. Not to mention the fact that you were so quickly prescribed anti-depressants without any real attempt to understand the cause of your anger, and instead of an offer of assistance in navigating the system to get what you really need, which is DMD therapy and ongoing neurological follow up. It seems a health care advocate would be of much more help to you, at least more so than this particular psychiatrist.
Even the rationale for referring you to group, "so perhaps you don't feel so lonely" seems weak, and seems to indicate their shallow understanding of your situation. Group treatment CAN be very effective, when it's the right time, for the right reasons, and facilitated by a skilled therapist. Of course there is much value in the socializing aspect, however it is or SHOULD be about a lot more than not feeling lonely. Heck, you can join a bridge club or a knitting circle if it's just about being lonely.
Group treatment should be therapeutic, have specific treatment goals, should not simply consist of gripe sessions (excessive venting without a view towards forming solutions may actually be worse for one's mential health than keeping it bottled up inside---this has actually been studied!). When group treatment works well, participants gain greater self-awareness, insight and skills to navigate whatever cr*p is getting in their way in life.
I know I've mentioned this on previous occasions, but have you given any further consideration to seeking help from the Ombudsman's Office at Capital Health?Specifically to lodge a complaint regarding being denied DMD therapy and ongoing neurological follow up.
It seems so STRAIGHT FORWARD:
* you have RRMS
*there are drugs available which have been proven to reduce severity and frequency of relapses
*the provincial government obviously thinks these drugs are a good idea, since they are provided to all patients with RRMS in Alberta (and in most other provinces) at virtually
NO COST to the patient, provided the pt is followed regularly by a MS specialist, which you should be, since...
****YOU HAVE RRMS!****
OK, I know I'm not telling you anything you don't already know, I just have to hope that if you put it in these terms, as simply as that, to the Ombudsman, IN WRITING, that they could not possibly ignore a copmlaint of this seriousness.
If I missed something along the way, and you've already gone this route without success, I'm not sure what else to suggest other than to speak to a lawyer (hopefully you have kept all of the documentation regarding your pleas for help), write to your MLA, go to the media, or all of the above.
Take some deep breaths, try to get a good night's sleep if that's possible, and think about what avenues are available to you that you have not yet pursued. It is worth continuing to fight for.
db
Even the rationale for referring you to group, "so perhaps you don't feel so lonely" seems weak, and seems to indicate their shallow understanding of your situation. Group treatment CAN be very effective, when it's the right time, for the right reasons, and facilitated by a skilled therapist. Of course there is much value in the socializing aspect, however it is or SHOULD be about a lot more than not feeling lonely. Heck, you can join a bridge club or a knitting circle if it's just about being lonely.
Group treatment should be therapeutic, have specific treatment goals, should not simply consist of gripe sessions (excessive venting without a view towards forming solutions may actually be worse for one's mential health than keeping it bottled up inside---this has actually been studied!). When group treatment works well, participants gain greater self-awareness, insight and skills to navigate whatever cr*p is getting in their way in life.
I know I've mentioned this on previous occasions, but have you given any further consideration to seeking help from the Ombudsman's Office at Capital Health?Specifically to lodge a complaint regarding being denied DMD therapy and ongoing neurological follow up.
It seems so STRAIGHT FORWARD:
* you have RRMS
*there are drugs available which have been proven to reduce severity and frequency of relapses
*the provincial government obviously thinks these drugs are a good idea, since they are provided to all patients with RRMS in Alberta (and in most other provinces) at virtually
NO COST to the patient, provided the pt is followed regularly by a MS specialist, which you should be, since...
****YOU HAVE RRMS!****
OK, I know I'm not telling you anything you don't already know, I just have to hope that if you put it in these terms, as simply as that, to the Ombudsman, IN WRITING, that they could not possibly ignore a copmlaint of this seriousness.
If I missed something along the way, and you've already gone this route without success, I'm not sure what else to suggest other than to speak to a lawyer (hopefully you have kept all of the documentation regarding your pleas for help), write to your MLA, go to the media, or all of the above.
Take some deep breaths, try to get a good night's sleep if that's possible, and think about what avenues are available to you that you have not yet pursued. It is worth continuing to fight for.
db
Another outrageous example of (lack of) health care that you've been getting. I bet I could spit farther than you!
On the other hand, if you forget the source that suggested it, group therapy isn't such a bad thing. I was seeing a therapist for depression and stuff, and my insurance didn't cover many one-on-one sessions, so I got dumped in group therapy.
At first, I had a hard time fitting in, because the group had been going for a while, and they all knew each other. Pretty soon I was just loving the gentle little man that was the therapist/group leader. Not long after that I was going out to lunch with all the ladies at Mac's Deli after group and learning that I could fit into a diverse group of people.
I started feeling a lot better (Prozac played a part in that for a while), and move on. Then I lost my job due to health issues, hired a lawyer, lost, ran out of unemployment, lived on General Assistance ($353 a month or so), experienced more and more pain and stuff, and got depressed again, big surprise!
I saw a phychiatrist that tried all sorts of different meds that had nasty side effects so I quit taking them, so I was back in group therapy. The first one was a whine a gripe session a lot of the time, but it came with a nice free lunch! :o) Then I was told about a new group; a bunch of classes that you committed to attend for several weeks, for several hours a day.
It changed my life. I learned how to meditate, learned a little Tai Chi, learned about inter-personal effectiveness, radical acceptance (think Serenity Prayer Plus), and a whole bunch more. Hmm, maybe I should have posted this under "tell us something about yourself that we don't know".
The point I'm trying to make is that once you recover some from being royally p*ssed off and on, you might consider giving the group a try. And the medication; sometimes that's all that's needed to kick you out of a clinical depression/anxiety/anger trap. You have a million reasons to be angry and depressed and all that. You also have a few gazillion reasons to try to feel as well as you possibly can.
Like your hubby and puppy and niece and Ada and me and all the rest of the many, many people that love you very much and want the best for you.
Hmm, if you play in Moki's room, does the person that stays on the ceiling the longest get a yummy dessert as a reward? If so, I'm in!
Tons of love,
Kathy
On the other hand, if you forget the source that suggested it, group therapy isn't such a bad thing. I was seeing a therapist for depression and stuff, and my insurance didn't cover many one-on-one sessions, so I got dumped in group therapy.
At first, I had a hard time fitting in, because the group had been going for a while, and they all knew each other. Pretty soon I was just loving the gentle little man that was the therapist/group leader. Not long after that I was going out to lunch with all the ladies at Mac's Deli after group and learning that I could fit into a diverse group of people.
I started feeling a lot better (Prozac played a part in that for a while), and move on. Then I lost my job due to health issues, hired a lawyer, lost, ran out of unemployment, lived on General Assistance ($353 a month or so), experienced more and more pain and stuff, and got depressed again, big surprise!
I saw a phychiatrist that tried all sorts of different meds that had nasty side effects so I quit taking them, so I was back in group therapy. The first one was a whine a gripe session a lot of the time, but it came with a nice free lunch! :o) Then I was told about a new group; a bunch of classes that you committed to attend for several weeks, for several hours a day.
It changed my life. I learned how to meditate, learned a little Tai Chi, learned about inter-personal effectiveness, radical acceptance (think Serenity Prayer Plus), and a whole bunch more. Hmm, maybe I should have posted this under "tell us something about yourself that we don't know".
The point I'm trying to make is that once you recover some from being royally p*ssed off and on, you might consider giving the group a try. And the medication; sometimes that's all that's needed to kick you out of a clinical depression/anxiety/anger trap. You have a million reasons to be angry and depressed and all that. You also have a few gazillion reasons to try to feel as well as you possibly can.
Like your hubby and puppy and niece and Ada and me and all the rest of the many, many people that love you very much and want the best for you.
Hmm, if you play in Moki's room, does the person that stays on the ceiling the longest get a yummy dessert as a reward? If so, I'm in!
Tons of love,
Kathy
Gosh Rena,
That is pathetic that all they offer you is group therapy - you at least should be offered one-on-one sessions if they think you are all that mental!!! :-)
Seriously, this just ***** - you deserve something more than a pat on the head and this feeble attempt by them to fix you this way.
I really do get confused about the difficulties you Canadians encounter in getting help and then even more trouble getting competent medical help. Where do your doctors come from?
You have a 24/7 support group here that will do therapy with you whenever you need it. We even will give you a kick in the keister if you need it!
Hopefully the white Russians went down smoothly and will help you get some rest tonight. Come tomorrow its back to the routine and trying to find you some real help.
I'm so sorry that this psych thing has turned into such a dilemma for you.
We'll wait to hear the rest of the story when you feel up to it, ok?
Until then, keep your chin up!!!
lulu
That is pathetic that all they offer you is group therapy - you at least should be offered one-on-one sessions if they think you are all that mental!!! :-)
Seriously, this just ***** - you deserve something more than a pat on the head and this feeble attempt by them to fix you this way.
I really do get confused about the difficulties you Canadians encounter in getting help and then even more trouble getting competent medical help. Where do your doctors come from?
You have a 24/7 support group here that will do therapy with you whenever you need it. We even will give you a kick in the keister if you need it!
Hopefully the white Russians went down smoothly and will help you get some rest tonight. Come tomorrow its back to the routine and trying to find you some real help.
I'm so sorry that this psych thing has turned into such a dilemma for you.
We'll wait to hear the rest of the story when you feel up to it, ok?
Until then, keep your chin up!!!
lulu
Group therapy????? That's all they had to offer you?? I was a Social Worker in my past life, before going in HR, and there is a place for group therapy, but not until after you have had several individual sessions. Are you sure this guy was a psychiatrist? I am so sorry that all they had to offer you were drugs and group therapy. Is there anything else? You know, this was a first meeting. Most times they don't get into real therapy until the second session. What do you plan to do?
Love,
Julie
Love,
Julie
Honey I'm sorry this was a bust for you. Anger, they wonder why you are angry? Sheesh, how about all the **** that you have gone through these last couple of years? Group therapy for loneliness? What the heck? How about help in dealing with the boneheads that are causing the anger? How about the MS you have and that it can cause depression? How about getting you the DMD's so that you might feel better and then be able to go out and socialize?
Maybe I shouldn't be writing to you right now. My frame of mind is not the best for this. I am sorry Rena. My thoughts are with you hon.
So I'll leave you with this: I'm redecorating a room in my house. I'm putting in rubber walls and ceiling and floor and attaching velcro to it. Then I'm going to play bouncy bouncy in there and when I'm bored with that I'm going to put on a velcro suit and jump till I stick to the ceiling and then place bets on how long it takes me to drop. heehee Want to join me? It's better therapy then what they have planned for you.
Love ya
Hugs
Moki
Maybe I shouldn't be writing to you right now. My frame of mind is not the best for this. I am sorry Rena. My thoughts are with you hon.
So I'll leave you with this: I'm redecorating a room in my house. I'm putting in rubber walls and ceiling and floor and attaching velcro to it. Then I'm going to play bouncy bouncy in there and when I'm bored with that I'm going to put on a velcro suit and jump till I stick to the ceiling and then place bets on how long it takes me to drop. heehee Want to join me? It's better therapy then what they have planned for you.
Love ya
Hugs
Moki
Rena, I have to go now, but i will try to drop in tomorrow or later tonight.... but I just wanted to quickly say how much this annoyed and upset me. GRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!
Just so you know.... this wasn't how it was supposed to turn out!
got to run, be back tlaer
~Sunnytoday~
Just so you know.... this wasn't how it was supposed to turn out!
got to run, be back tlaer
~Sunnytoday~
I just don't understand why you can't get a break for the positive. It really pi**es me off too!!! I was so hoping you would see someone with understanding, that would help you.
You go girl, with the while russians!!!! Just be careful and don't fall on your bottom
...ha..ha....
I and everyone here understands what you are going through and how frustrating it is for you. We all wish we could fix it for you, but since we can't, we can at least be your safe place. You are very important here and everyone loves you.
I hope your night gets better. As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers
Love & Hugs,
doni
You go girl, with the while russians!!!! Just be careful and don't fall on your bottom
...ha..ha....
I and everyone here understands what you are going through and how frustrating it is for you. We all wish we could fix it for you, but since we can't, we can at least be your safe place. You are very important here and everyone loves you.
I hope your night gets better. As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers
Love & Hugs,
doni
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