waiting long to see a doctor

[RubySlippers]

It's very simple to transfer your records to a new doc. The new doc will have a "canned" form requesting records from other docs. Usually you just put your name in the "patient name", and sign the form. This is something all docs who take new patients do all the time.

No worries there. But, I would make a consultation appt. first with the new doc. This gives you the opportinity to explain your issues and what type of care he/she will be providing, and you can ask them what they do when a patient needs to be seen right away - do they have any time set aside for emergency appts? Or, do they allow you to come in and wait for a break in between scheduled patients?.

This is also a time for the new doc to tell you what thier treatment plan would be, and a time for them to tell you they can't treat you. Those of us with chronic conditions sometimes have a hard time finding a doc willing to prescribe all the meds we need (I take methadone, percocet and a benzodiazepine just for pain...other stuff for depression, etc.)

I would start the search for a new doc today. Try the internet - there are many sites that actual patients rate the service, and make sure the doc is on the list of you ins.

Good luck

[wholegrain]

Thank you!!

[AuntNanc]

Sad to say that things are just not the same as they were when we were kids. I love my PCP. But, I run into the same situation... having to wait weeks for a non-emergency. More times than not, I am told that if I need to be seen right away, I will have to see the nurse pratitioner or go to the ER. I work in a group home and have to deal with many doctors on behalf of my clients... PCP's and specialists of every kind. It is frustratingly the same everywhere... country or city. Very few practices save spaces for emergency situations or will squeeze you in between appointments. I'm not saying you shouldn't change doctors, because I do understand your problem. But, before you make that leap from someone you like, check out the prospective new practice very thoroughly. Explain your situation. Find out what the general waiting period is for a non-emergency appointment and what happens when you have an emergency situation. From all of us who have to plan ahead to be sick, good luck!