(((((wisewoman))))) . . . i believe you are 100% correct about treating the whole person. i don't trust any healthcare provider who doesn't follow the biopsychosocial medical model. i've had so many appointments with so many providers. however, i've only had two counselors willing to address my spiritual needs (after i mentioned my spiritual longings). i'd love to find a family physician who followed the biopsychosocial model AND would ask me about spiritual stuff.

i am very scared going to every medical appointment. i feel powerless. however, since the birth of my son, i've been learning to say, "NO!" to doctors. some medical procedures that i don't feel are necessary for my son, i refuse for my son.

i have been fortunate that my pain issues have been addressed. i can't imagine being in your shoes. ((((((((((wisewoman)))))))

i find that when you have pulmonary or cardiac issues, those specialists docs usually use a multidisciplinary approach to treat. i think it's sad more docs don't treat the whole person.

something simple as my sleep apnea being not treated may increase the likelihood i'll have cardiac problems (which everyone on my mom's side of the family has). thank goodness i had a psychiatrist refer me to the sleep clinic (of course, he was stupid and gave me tons of sleep meds too).

there is no perfect healthcare provider. we need to empower ourselves to be our own advocate. we need to ask questions. i think it's especially important to ask questions and get a referral or second opinion when a doctor is prescribing something that possibly masks symptoms of some other major problem.

i'm sorry for rambling.

wisewoman . . . are you willing and able to keep looking for healthcare providers to address your needs??? do you have providers who follow the biopsychosocial model?