Changing consultants

[maria40]

I'm so glad that I changed rheumatologists last year. I've just had a really good and helpful telephone consultation with mine who is realistic about my never getting below 5mg and allowing me to control the pace of my reduction. I'd advise anyone who's unhappy with their consultant to go ahead and change.

[maria40]

P.S. Just wish I could do the same with my GP but there's no realistic option in the area.

[Coffeebeans in reply to maria40]

Sorry to hear that. I was going to add include GP in that. I've just changed mine after 4 years of hell with them to the point where I dreaded them calling me.

New surgery is amazing. Always polite and helpful. Seamless transition despite the repeat prescriptions and fortnightly bloods.

Shame there's no one else.but I would say it's worth the 3 mile drive.

[alvertta]

I changed this year. New rheumy is so responsive and available. A nice change.

[arvine]

Hello Maria40, I too am considering changing rheumy, I,ve been under her care well over 4 years, and although she has been very curt, rude at times, was able to cope with that until my last appointment in March with her, was pretty bad, can,t talk barely, can,t ask questions, just shuts me down and ignores my issues I try to tell her, can you tell me, how long have you been on pred, and what dose did your consultant start you at, I too am on 5 mgs now,

[maria40 in reply to arvine]

It is great to have a complete conversation with a consultant, indeed essential I would say. My previous one seemed to be talking past me and not understanding my questions. I've been taking pred for an incredible 21 years - most of it at 5mg but developed GCA 11 years ago and had to raise dose then and for a couple of flares more recently. That's why it's so good to have someone who understands that 5mg is my goal not getting to zero. He also asked quite a few questions about an upcoming hospital procedure , not his department but gynaecology, showing he's interested in the whole person.