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Originally Posted by sugahorse
Am I alone in my battle, or is there just no such thing as a decent pdoc? Either one that cares, one that knows the game, one that is available, just a nice person...? I'm having such a hard time finding one I can get on with. Running out of options in my city...
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Sugahorse, will your insurance pay for a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner? If your case isn't too difficult, with several complicating diagnoses in other body systems, then a PNP would probably be very able to fill your needs. They tend to have a more holistic view and be good communicators, plus they don't charge as much. Just an idea to help you broaden your search....
Quote:
Originally Posted by sugahorse
So, now I need to find my own. But it's important that my T and pdoc can talk, so I need my T to be part of the decision.
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What do you mean your T needs to be part of the decision? How will that work? Will she provide you with a list of names? Will she interview the person you choose to make sure she likes the person? I'm just not sure how your T will be part of your decision....
Quote:
Originally Posted by sugahorse
I would still make sure you understand why they prescribe what they do instead of what you would like to be prescribed. It doesn't do them any good to prescribe you something you aren't behind/might not take properly, etc.
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I agree. A decent doc will appreciate your trying to understand what it is you are putting into your body and its possible effects. Sugahorse, you said that sometimes you arrive knowing what you want them to prescribe and then get upset when choose something else. I think if you go in with an open mind, that would be helpful, but also the doc should be able to answer your questions thoroughly and explain why what you suggest is not the best option. I am working in a hospital now, and part of my job is to explain the meds to patients right before they are discharged. Yesterday, a patient had several questions about the meds he was being sent home with, and I was happy to answer them. Many patients don't ask any questions (well, they often feel like c**p so I certainly understand if they sit there just wanting me to shut up
). But I realized yesterday when the patient asked me meds questions, that I really appreciated it. It is his right to know all about what meds he is supposed to take and my responsibility to make sure he gets that information.
So please keep trying to find a pdoc who will explain his meds recommendations to you. You deserve that information, and your feedback helps the doctor make the best decisions for you.
When you do go see a new pdoc, be sure to tell him your current meds and if you like what any of them are doing for you, be sure to communicate that. Sometimes a new doc may want to start from scratch, so if you want to maintain a current med or keep it but tinker with it more, be sure to let him know. You don't want to throw the baby out with the bath water.