Need a good doctor but uninsured and taking synthroid for 15 yrs

Question

I have taken synthroid for 15 years, fairly high dosage I guess, and am uninsured. I am not penniless, just uninsured. My current doctor is an internist and his office has made me uncomfortable, and he does not do anything to make me feel comfortable. I need a doctor willing to treat me. I can pay for the necessary testing and office visit. I would like to be treated well by my doctor and his staff. I can't afford unlimited tests. I am down to my last few pills because I have put off going to see this doctor I don't like. It would be nice to see a doctor who could show genuine interest in me as a patient even though I am not  loaded with money or great insurance. I tried to get insurance a number of years ago, but because of other health issues since taking this drug, was turned down. The cost would be too great for me to bear. I am 60 and my husband is disabled although still working part time. I could use some help please.

ThyroidHunter · Accepted Answer

This is a post, thought, and email our Foundation receives daily, sometimes more than once a day. I think Barb135 and others on the thyroid Board may need to start a patient advocay site or organization. The situation is worldwide. I believe much of this "uncomfortableness" you feel and describe like so many, is the result of a lack of "understanding" and "education" at the med school level. But enough on that.

The National Thyroid Foundation has agreements with free clinics for free total TSH testing in 7 states, but many ask not to be listed due to the fact that during the last 3 years, they are overwhelmed. I you live within travel distance of Texas I can make a personal referral in Austin, and other cities of high quality General Practice Docs that will tackle a whole body's health, including the thyroid.

If not an easy drive or already in Texas, it's time to interview a referred GP. Call everyone in your friend circle, and find a fairly young general practice doc that someone likes. Give their office a call and ask to talk to the head nurse or PA/MA. Tell the truth and ask them if their doc is the type to take on a health issue and stay with it, or not. This will do a couple of things I think: 1. Earn Respect - not many do it and 2. You'll know the truth when you hear it. 

Before you go, make a WRITTEN list of your symptoms, and what you want to talk about. Do not leave the exam room until you are done. Ask questions, and get some understanding that you did not have before you came. That alone will be a big improvement over what you've been getting.

Hope this will help.

ThyroidHunter · Answer

If you will go to the foundations website at nationalthyroidfoundation.org, you will find my email address and send me an email for the referral. We are trying to narrow this down to Katy specific.

Best

Peaceable · Answer

Thanks. I only have a few pills left and so I hope to at least to make an appointment with someone. My current/former physician's office won't allow refills now without an appointment. I have read all the above suggestions. Thanks to all. I appreciate the comments.

ThyroidHunter · Answer

I will have my Doc give you a referral for Houston, I am in Austin but he knows many Docs in Houston, my surgeon is there as well.

Re-read Goolara and Barb135's messages, they are very strongly educated Board members and their thoughts are valuable.

You can reach me at this site, or at ***@**** .

Peaceable · Answer

Thanks for the help. I live around Houston TX, in Katy. Would be interested in your referrals around here for GPs , etc. It would be at least a place to start, since I am clueless right now as to who I might call or see. It is important to have staff members who are really caring, as we see more of them than the doctor himself!!!

Barb135 · Answer

ThyroidHunter made some very good suggestions, and I agree that the treatment we often get is due to lack of training at the med school level.  Until "old school" doctors quit teaching the same old treatments, we will continue to have poor treatment.  

If you can let us know where you are located, I'm sure we can help you find a doctor who can/will help you.  Most states/counties in the US have a Public Health Department, from which you can get treatment; many base fees on income.  In addition, most cities now have "walk in" clinics, and some of these have excellent doctors.  You don't have to have insurance to use them, but they will expect payment at the time of service, unless you can make other arrangements.  

As a last resort, maybe you could get one more script from this doctor to keep you going; is there any chance they would call in a script, and not make you have an office visit? In the meantime, begin your search for a doctor you like and who will care for you properly.

goolarra · Answer

I'd suggest you start a new thread, making sure to get your city and state in the headline and asking for recommendations.  If that doesn't generate any possibilities, I'd suggest pre-interviewing prospective doctors over the phone.  Your'll probably have to talk to a nurse.  There are a few key questions that indicate how good the doctor is with thyroid issues.  Also, I've found that if you explain your insurance situation (I'm in a similar one) and ask if the doctor can treat you on that basis, you often get some surprisingly candid answers.

Need a good doctor but uninsured and taking synthroid for 15 yrs

Dyes and Fillers used in Synthroid and Compounded Levothyroxine

Thyroid Maintenance in Florida

Anything serious from this ultrasound result?

Solid hypoechoic nodule on isthmus

Dyes and Fillers used in Synthroid and Compounded Levothyroxine

Thyroid Maintenance in Florida

Anything serious from this ultrasound result?

Solid hypoechoic nodule on isthmus

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