Do you know Dr. Koh at Guthrie? Have Appointment Tips?

[Aquarielle]

     Is anyone familiar with Dr.Koh, a neurologist at Robert Packer Hospital, aka Guthrie Sayre, in Pennsylvania? My first appointment with him is this week, at which I'm to be evaluated for possible MS. He comes highly recommended by two of my doctors, who have sent other patients to him. However, I'm still a bit nervous due to a less-than-stellar appointment with the other neurologist I went to; I've read about the negative experiences of other site members, so I know mine is one of many.

     Also, if anyone has tips on making the most of an appointment and what subjects/questions to avoid, I'd be Very appreciative of them! I've read back about eight pages and found some very helpful suggestions, such as:
1) Start with your first symptoms and end with current symptoms
2) Avoid discussion of emotions and worries
3) Don't suggest that you may have a specific illness

[Aquarielle]

    Thank you so much for your helpful ideas! I followed your advice, and I'm especially glad that you recommended bringing a list of symptoms and a way to organize it. I was so stressed, really struggling with whether to even bring a short list because my Former gastroenterologist was a real jerk about it.

    When I asked the neurologist if he minded my referring to the list, occasionally, he replied "Yes, it's good, it's very important to have all the information!" which was a Huge relief! I thought he was great, and he typed up everything I said-- it really irks me when doctors hardly type up anything.

    In the future, I'll remember your suggestions about how best to title my posts :) I hope you're doing as well as can be expected (as I put it) and thank you again!

[essdipity]

Hi and welcome.

Am not familiar with your doctor, and probably others here can't help either. It's a big world. However, I wish you had headed your post with something about preparing for a neuro visit, because that will get you many more responses.

The 3 ideas for an initial visit are a good start. I would add that you should concentrate (at least while talking to him or her) on only your most bothersome symptoms, maybe 3 or so. Take a written timeline of all that's possibly relevant, and keep this to a max of 2 pages. One is better. Just facts--what happened when, what you did about it, if anything, what tests you've had.

Also, take with you copies of any MRIs and any other test reports. This will save you time and avoid unneccessary repetitions.

While you're there, take note of whether or not you get a thorough neuro examination. This should take at least 30 minutes, and to me at least is an indicator of how interested the neuro is in what you describe. A few perfunctory tests means you're being blown off.

If at all possible, have your spouse or someone else close to you go with you to the appointment. That person will help you remember what was said and done. It can all get pretty confusing at the beginning.

Finally, read up in our Health Pages (at the right). Lots of good suggestions there.

Best of luck,
ess