[OneDown]

Hello,
I recently got referred to a PDoc who specializes in BP at Columbia University and setup a one-time consult on my diagnosis and med regiment (I recently started hearing voices again during a depressive episode, but unlike previous episodes the voice did not go away when my mood stabilized back to normal again). My question is, how do I tell my primary PDoc that I'm interested in this consult to see what the Dr recommends as far as diagnosis and medication?

I've been with my current PDoc for seven years and I really like her and don't want to offend her. I think she is great, I just want to see what this consult can add to my understanding and diagnosis and what med recommendations come out of it.

Any suggestions?

[SunAngel]

I would say exactly what you said in your post.

Just tell her. Second opinions are pretty standard. It won't offend her. Heck, my pdoc actually sent me for a 2nd opinion to be sure he wasn't missing anything.

[SunnyD]

This sounds like a great opportunity. She might be very positive about it.

[Hydrophobic1212]

I'd do just what you said in your post. I really would. I think it'd help a lot.

I am going to be telling my pdoc at my next appointment that I want a re-evaluation of sorts. He told me it's possible it might not be BP for me so I'm going to ask him if it's possible to check into other possibilities.

But yes. Just tell them that you want a second opinion. If you've known them for a few years, I'm sure they won't be offended. Their job is to help you and if you think that you want a different opinion to help you feel better, they should understand that.

Good luck!