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Knowing too much

Posted , 14 users are following.

richard07199
richard07199

Since this is a new topic (for me at least), I didn’t know whether to tack it onto someone else’s discussion or open a new thread.  So here I am.

It seems to me that most of the people who participate regularly in this group probably know at least as much, and probably more, about PMR than your everyday general practitioner.  For me this group has been a great source of practical knowledge.  I have studied as much as I can about the condition on the internet, and even have a copy of Zuckerman and Inglefinger’s book “Coping With Prednisone” on my bookshelf.

I will be seeing a new GP next month.  My question is:  How do I interact with this new MD without coming across as a know-it-all?  I don’t want to appear as intimidating.  I’m going there for help.

For instance, it’s a good chance that your everyday MD has not read the 2017 Mayo Clinic study that knocks over a number of sacred cows concerning PMR treatment...I have (thanks Elaine).

So, bottom line, how do I handle this first meeting?  I’m sure many of you have faced the same situation.  What is your experience?

2 likes, 26 replies

26 Replies

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  • Anhaga
    Anhaga richard07199

    Posted

    I have found the best way is to ask the opinion of the doctor.  Not "This is what I want to do" but, "What do you think about this method?" 

    • richard07199
      richard07199 Anhaga

      Posted

      Thank you, Anhaga.  Well said.  Deference to the new GP is the proper approach in this situation.
    • ptolemy
      ptolemy richard07199

      Posted

      GPs in general like patients to be servile, cap touching, thanks doctor!! 
    • EileenH
      EileenH ptolemy

      Posted

      Aye - well I ain't pulling any forelocks to anybody!!

    • Anhaga
      Anhaga richard07199

      Posted

      It's really just a polite way to get them on your side.  I don't think it's servile at all.  And we can go on our own sweet way if they are not on board with what you want (and intend) to do.  At least it worked with my doctor.  She was so ill informed that when she saw PMR/GCA at the top of the printout it took her a moment to realize GCA was giant cell arteritis!  So all in all I think she's happy to have a well-informed patient. 

    • ptolemy
      ptolemy Anhaga

      Posted

      Lucky you having a sensible doctor.
    • Anhaga
      Anhaga ptolemy

      Posted

      She's okay.  She diagnosed me and her treatment for PMR has, for the most part, been sensible, but she's been very casual about things, not really ever addressing any other concerns I have, just saying "I'm not worried about that".  Last visit, in early spring, she said she didn't need to see me for a year.  Excuse me?  I'm still taking pred!  Maybe not every three months, but I do think a year is a long time....

    • ptolemy
      ptolemy Anhaga

      Posted

      Mine did not see me for two years!
    • Anhaga
      Anhaga ptolemy

      Posted

      No doctor for two years?  How did you get your pred?
    • ptolemy
      ptolemy

      Posted

      I should say that my surgery allows on line repeat prescriptions which is great. I was not ordering re the black market! 
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