Don't trust doctors.

[Jomomo]

What do you do when you feel your cardiologist isn't doing much? This is my 2nd doctor. I almost died taking warfarin last week. I had bleeding in my stomach muscles. The oncologist just books checkups when they have an available slot. Sometimes every 2 or 3 weeks. I entered the hospital with 3 blood clots in my lungs just 3 days after my cardiologist check-up. He didn't catch it even after I said something is wrong with me. I was scheduled to come back in 4 months. I feel like an old cow set out to pasture. How many doctors should I be seeing? What types? How can a doctor keep up with my health with such big gaps in visits? I'm labeled noncompliant because I complain and question people about my treatment. Doctors don't like me because I have the nerve to talk bad about my care with other doctors. I feel like my healthcare is sketchy, and I feel like I get the wrong drugs and I feel left on my own

[Merli0n]

Sorry to hear you're struggling. Maybe talk about it to a different medical person other than those treating you, that ignores that label of 'non compliant", someone friendly or professional who can advise you. Or take someone with you to your next visit, who remains calm, and can be your witness (for later discussion or complaint). Or maybe see if you can talk to any patient care worker external to your main gp.I can only comment generally, as I'm in UK, so it will be different here.

[springcross]

Hi Jomomo. Here in the UK we have a body called PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Services) who are usually found in local hospitals. Some of the things they do is assist with queries, complaints and give impartial advice etc. Is this something you have in the US?

[Hidden]

You should be seeing your primary care doctor. If I were you, 4 times a year. I would get referrals to specialist from my primary care physician. When you meet with your specialist explain that you require more frequent visits when put on new meds or on high risk meds like warfarin. If you haven't already, speak with a nutrients regarding your diet. That is a critical component of your healthcare. Too often it is ignored. If you can, daily exercise is required, even just walking.