On Friday I will be seeing a new doctor for meds. This will be my forth meds doc (one kinda dropped me, one moved 100 miles away, the last one was simply not qualified)........

For any of you out there who have had to change docs - do you find this very stressful before you meet the new person???

I do. I think part of it is it usually takes about two months to see a new doctor (their waiting list is that long)... So if this doctor sucks - then you are screwed for 8-16 weeks.

[paynful]

I do find going to the doctors stressful. Especially, a new doctor! I know it sounds ridiculous, but mostly I get stressed about finding my way there... the right street, parking, which building, and even walking into the waiting room. Like if I get lost, my world will end. However, once I am there... not so much.

You have to keep in mind that while they are evaluating you, they are NOT judging you (at least not if they are good at their job). They are YOUR objective opionion... that you are paying for. They might have a waiting list, but you are their client. They work for you.

If you are concerned about her/him being a right fit for you, then don't put all your eggs in one basket. Make appointments else where as back up. You can always cancel them if it works out with your primary appointment (just don't forget to cancel if they charge you for missing it.. stupid insurance).

...If you are comfortable, ask the receptionist if they like working there. SOMETIMES, you can get an idea of what you are walking into.

I wish you the best of luck. It isn't easy, but it could change your world if you let it.

[gayleggg]

I'm always uncomfortable with a new doctor of any kind. Not long ago I was sent to a hematogist but when I got the I found out he wasn't just a hemotogist he was also an oncologist. Scared the **** out of me. It still makes me nervous to see him. So far they haven't found any cancer but I know that is what they are looking for. Talk about scared of a doctor.

I think it is only natural for you to be anxious, but once you get there hopefully he will be nice and can help you when others didn't. Wishing you well.

[Frankbtl]

Hi UM, no personal experience to answer from SORRY. But it sounds like you've not had the best of luck with your doctors (!) It's got to be stressful almost starting at the beginning again, trying to get a "feeling" of someone new, or not knowing what to expect, having to go over things you'd already told the other doctors, having to come to trusting (or doubting/questioning things with..) them.
Then again.......BRIGHT SIDE!!.....the last one was not qualified?!!!!......assuming this one is then that's GOT TO BE a bonus!!!!
But sometimes trying different approaches can help. Of course it can take time to find out what really works for you, but if you've got/had some different approaches then sometimes you're going to know better yourself what is really doesn't help and what might just be a maybe.
As a "safety net" though do you know people who could recommend different doctors e.g. if they have a particular doctor they have found to be really good (although different people will have different opinions on the same doctor, it's often good to get some personal insight). Then maybe use them as a back-up plan. At least then if your doctor isn't the kind you'd like you're less likely to wait around and end up with another one just as bad or worse.
But for now, maybe go into your appointment explaining what you would like in their approach, what you're looking for and then maybe they've got something to work with in hitting some of your needs.
Although again, GOT TO BE better than the last one!! Surely!!
Best wishes
Alison

[Fuzzybear]

not had the best of experiences with doctors as some may know wishing you luck

[SeekerOfLife]

Hi UM. Sorry you are feeling stressed out about the new doc. I pretty much do not like doctors because I do not trust them. As far as therapists, I like most of them. But it tears me up when the agency switches me to a new one. My first took a job in another city. My second--don't know what happened to her. My third also took a job in another city. My current T. is wonderful. But due to others leaving, I am a bit anxious she will leave too. So i kind of understand your anxiety.