find a new doctor

How I did it: I have a chronic pain condition that requires ongoing care from a physician.  The doctor I had seen for years took an extended leave of absence, forcing me to find another MD.  The first one accused me of selling my medications because I didn't bring the pill bottles with me to every checkup - what the ???  There aren't enough doctors to go around in my area so it's very hard to find one who will take new patients.  I had to pose as the lesbian lover of one of her existing patients in order to be seen by the next doctor.  On my first visit she told me, "I hate dealing with chronic pain patients!"  By that time I was desperate because I had to rely on someone to prescribe pain medications and to make referrals to other health care providers.  I was so discouraged and beaten down by then that I simply couldn't face starting with someone new.  Finally I got so damn tired of being dismissed, of not being listened to, of not having my questions answered, of having my medications cut back regardless of my pain levels, and of being denied access to other legitimate sources of pain relief such as trigger point injections.  I finally got my emotional strength back and knew I deserved better treatment than I was getting and that I was the only one who could bring about positive change.  I got a list of all doctors in my city who were accepting new patients and I started making phone calls.  It was a long process and it was very hard to remain optimistic but I persisted.  Finally I found a doctor who would take me on but I had to wait 3 months for my first appointment.  During that waiting period I almost gave up hope and came close to cancelling the appointment.  Thank goodness I didn't because my current doctor is easy to talk to, trained to deal with pain and medications, listens to me and answers questions, really wants to help me get better, and treats me with respect.

Lessons & tips: You deserve quality health care delivered by people who are well-trained and knowlegeable.  You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  If you aren't happy with your health care provider try telling them what needs aren't being met and see if things can improve.  If they can't, start looking for someone who can care for you the way you deserve to be cared for.

Resources: Ideally a friend, family member or co-worker can recommend their doctor.  I ended up looking on my Health Region's website for a list of doctors taking new patients and phoned until I found one.  Don't tell your old doctor that you are looking for his/her replacement until you have met with the new MD and made sure you can work with them.  Only then ask your old doctor to transfer your files.

Feb 11, 06:23PM PST | 2 comments | 6 cheers