PM Apt Update

Hello HW Family,

I went to see the PM Dr today and (like you all said), I was apparently worried for nothing.  It looks like his receptionist doesn't always reflect the doctor's views.

Anyway, I discussed the cane use and he agreed (even sent me to PT for a cane lesson) and the PT did the lesson free!!!  I did call back and leave a message with PM to let them know I followed the directions regarding PT, but that he wouldn't be seeing a report because they were so kind to show me without charge.  I honestly didn't know it took a lesson to use a cane, but I was WRONG.  I was doing it all wrong!

All meds were renewed without question.  He also had his staff copy all the documents on the Nerve Ablation that insurance denied (after the fact) and will then schedule to complete the last area when we get approval from insurance.  He even told me why he stopped last time and it was apparently documented that my pain level was too high to continue.  I'm not sure it that was BP going crazy or what, but I'm glad he documented so well.  He was great when we discussed the new diagnoses that I have been given since seeing him and also great about the placard for the car.  Apparently he was concerned about the tag office accepting it from him...no problem of course.  Also, there was no drug test (to pay for at $1000.00 a test) yea!!!!

I have to admit that I was worried for nothing on this one.  He even approved for me to begin the voltaren gel for my hands until I can ge in with the reumy and the lidocane patches for my back that I have on hand from an old prescription and will write for new ones if they help.  We don't even have a follow-up for three months....just med refills every thirty days.

I really appreciate all the kind words and words of wisdom so many of you provided.  I followed your suggestions and asked about when they really want me to call and also took a list of all meds, strengths and prescribers along with a list of questions.  I gave them one copy for their record and kept one for myself so I knew what to ask.  Your suggestions really paid off!!  I feel so much better now that this one is over!!!

Thank you all for your support!~! 

Hi, Retiredmom,
I'm so glad it went so well for you. Seems like this doc is a "keeper", although maybe his staff could use a little more educating (or compassion).

You know, I think that the staff a doctor hires can generally be reflective of their style, etc., but sometimes I don't think they have a clue about what staff are saying over the phone - and how very confusing, upsetting, etc, that can be for us patients. Sadly, many of the medical receptionists don't have a lot of training, but sometimes may think they're nurses when they're not (I'm not trying to offend any receptionists - because a good one can make a huge difference, too!). And overall I think the offices get so busy that people lose track of what they're saying and doing in the moment - often trying to multi-task. Oh, I'm going off on a tangent - sorry!

I'm just glad it went so well for you!

PaLady

Retired, I'm so glad to hear your appointment went so well and that you actually like your doctor.  That is always a big plus!

You stated that your insurance company denied the nerve ablation after the fact.  I was scheduled for mine in March but had to reschedule it for April 12th due to my husbands work schedule, I want him there for it.  The PM office asked me to sign a waiver because a pre-cert hadn't been completed yet.  I told them that I didn't want to have the procedure until the pre-cert was received.  Hopefully it will be completed before my appt.  I hope you didn't get stuck with the entire cost of the procedure.

My PM has never done a drug test on me though it is stated in my contract that they may do so.  I must have not set off any signals as a seeker.