Posted by banga on March 6, 2005, at 9:23:42
In reply to How did you choose your Pdoc?, posted by MM on March 6, 2005, at 2:45:54
Do you have to get pre-approval to see them? Is that why it's tough to choose? Otherwise I was going to suggest making two appointments, go to the famous one first for an opinion--he/she may have more in-depth knowledge (though being published does not necessarily mean that they are better), may have some insights, but most likely is very busy and hard to get regular appointments in the long run. So do a consult. Have an appointment already set up with another pdoc--someone closer by and who may have a less busy schedule so they can accomodate your needs and perhaps semi-emergencies if they ever come up.That way you don't have to wait forever to see soemone again after you see the first guy. you can always cancel if you end up really liking the first one.
I think each person's priorities in their pdoc can change depending on what is going on. So ask yourself: what of his/her attributes are MOST important now?
If you consider your condition difficult to treat, expertise and cutting-edge knowledge is what I'd seek, even if for a one-time consult. If you are in a spot where you need to feel supported, you'd prioritize rapport
Or you may care less about rapport but need someone who you can see quick because you tend to have semi-emergencies--so you need someone less busy.For me, I chose the pdoc that was most open to my own suggestions and was willing to try unconventional combos. Previous to that I saw soemone who was very knowledgeable and VERY sympathetic, but she was unwilling to try any new med combos with me unless I agreed to partial hospitalization. And previous to her I saw someone fairly dry in personality but very knowledgeable, but I had seen him for quite a while and we were not getting anywhere so I simply needed a switch to get fresh ideas into the picture.
Again, Id start by going to the person most likely to give me the most expert advice (yes, hard to judge befoerhand who that might be), set up the meds with that person until I stabilize, and then switch to a pdoc closer to me and with a more flexible schedule--who can serve just as a check-in point. Even if you have to have the visits pre-approved, you could try saying that you are going to doc x for a one-time expert consult, but will be wanting to go to doc y in the long run.
poster:banga
thread:467231
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050304/msgs/467276.html