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Having trouble getting seen by a new Rheumatologist

Posted , 4 users are following.

n97870
n97870

I was diagnosed with RA 10 years ago and had a great doctor.  Unfortunately about 5 years ago I was laid off and had trouble finding work.  I was able to get some medicine to manage my RA since relocating to Tennessee.  I finally have a job that provides insurance and wanted to get back into treatment but none of the Rheumatologists in my area will see me unless I provide my medical records from my previous Rheumatologist.  I have now been trying since July and have not received  them let alone a call or email back.  I have now tried to send my request through certified mail with no luck.  

There has always been the looming possiblity of Lupus and now there are more signs that I have it.  I have tried to get a referral from my PCP but they have stated they won't accept that either.   

Any suggestions for how to further approach this would be greatly appreciated.  

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • Guest
    Guest n97870

    Posted

    That really sucks, so much for Obamacare huh? I can't imagine doctors not accepting a patient without prior records, (I believe you!) it's just our medical system has become so messed up now, it's terrifying. Sounds like you may have to get a lawyer or some kind of legal help. Usually if a Primary Care Dr. asks for records from another doctor they will transfer them. 

  • Gloria814
    Gloria814 n97870

    Posted

      That is awful for you, completely unacceptable.    Do you know if your previous rheumatologist is still in practice and located in the same place?    You are entitled to your own medical records.  Often you have to pay for them or if they send them directly to a doctor sometimes no fee.   But you don't know what doctor to send them to as yet.  Wish your PCP could help you get in for an appt to someone he knows.      Maybe you should try to travel a farther distance to see a specialist if your insurance allows it and then perhaps transfer back closer to home.  Not ideal of course.   Other thought --has your PCP done the necessary blood tests for RA that could be given / sent to the rheumatologist you choose

    Best of luck-- keep us posted on how this was resolved for you

  • Guest
    Guest n97870

    Posted

    Maybe you could go to your primary doctor and he could give you a new diagnose of RA and maybe then he can refer you on his findings!
    • Guest
      Guest

      Posted

      I just googled TN Medical Board and came up with a link for filing a complaint. I don't think I can put the url here but if you google that you will see it. File on them and see if you can get some action

  • n97870
    n97870

    Posted

    Thank you for your recommendations.  I'm going to my PCP tomorrow and see if he can help.  If not I'll see if I can either get legal help or file a complaint

    • Guest
      Guest n97870

      Posted

      Keep us posted on what happens. Who knows someone else may have this same problem! Good luck and hope everything goes well for you my friend.
  • n97870
    n97870

    Posted

    Finally got an appointment with a Rheumotologist thanks to a push from my PCP.  Still no word or records back from my old doc despite them receiving the request for the via certified mail in mid december.  But it's something.  Thanks  for all of your help.  

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