Rheum visit on the 22nd-should I ask for fresh bloods?

[MiloCollie]

Dear learned friends. I’m not monitored by anyone and just sort my pred out myself. I read that I should have regular bloods, psychological support and maybe the odd review 😂😂 as if!! For my upcoming face to face with rheumy do you think I should have some fresh bloods taken. I’ve not had the standard set since April but had all his specialist ones in July. I’m sure if I asked my gp they’d say yes. Thanks.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

You can ask, but as has been commented on here recently they may not be able - - there is a shortage of blood testing bottles /tubes due to COVID and many surgeries are only conducting emergency/urgent blood tests. See link - healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[MiloCollie in reply to DorsetLady]

Yes I saw that. Good point. Leave them for someone with a greater need. Thanks. X

[2013mayo]

Hi, I too do not have any regular blood test, in fact I can’t remember the last time I had any bloods taken. My rheumatologist was exceptionally good to begin with, he would phone me quite often and made several appt to see him, even throughout the beginning of the pandemic, but now nothing, if it wasn’t for this forum I’d be lost, thank goodness everyone here are able to help.

Take care

Xx

[MiloCollie in reply to 2013mayo]

Thanks 😜

[MrsNails]

Hi, just for Clarity they are currently only doing ‘Clinically Essential’ Blood Tests.

I’ve just come back from having my MTX Bloods done & they were turning people away who’d just randomly turned up with no Blood Forms or Appointments.

If your Consultant thinks you need repeats he will order them for you.

Kind Regards

MrsN

[piglette in reply to MrsNails]

I don’t think my GP has ever ordered blood tests for me in six years. I order them and they check with the GP. I have given up as they don’t bother to look at them anyway it seems.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

"psychological support" - forgive me while I have a quick sarcastic snort!!! In an ideal world - yes, definitely. However ...

That's what the forum does really.

[MiloCollie in reply to PMRpro]

True. Thank god. More like thank you all. X

[Sophiestree in reply to PMRpro]

hilarious 😂

[Meggsy]

Since diagnosis I have had a blood test once a year and dexa scan 2 yearly. I think that is the standard in Aus unless there are other complications.