Rheumatologist telephone appointment

[Rosina1871]

First since May 2021. He did the most talking! I mentioned I was slowly tapering at 0,5mg every three to four weeks and he agreed it was a good idea. Said my bloods were good, CRP and ESR but he always checks for more than that to look for signs of a problem. However I didn’t get chance to ask what he meant as he kept on talking. When I asked if I could ask one more question, he replied well just one!.

Having another blood test end of Feb. I should feel happy with the outcome but wish he had let me take more control of the conversation. Perhaps I’m being unfair as I know how busy they are

[piglette]

And they say a doctor should spend 90% of their time listening.

[Rosina1871 in reply to piglette]

Thanks piglette

[Blearyeyed]

You aren't being unfair , if you feel like you still have questions that you didn't get to ask , despite politely trying to do it it is disappointing and frustrating.Especially so if those were the questions that might have helped you to understand your condition better and could have helped you to make more practical choices to progress.

I know they are busy , especially at the moment , but many of them acted in exactly the same way Pre Covid and it isn't an excuse.

Its one of those professional flaws in many doctors in my experience and often the ones with the most experience and seniority can be the worst. They want to use their consultation to get whatever empirical information they are interested in rather than understanding the appointment isn't just for their benefit , its for yours , and they should be giving you adequate time to ask the questions you need answered as well.

Sometimes , I find a quick call to the Rheumatology Nurse on their patient line can help afterwards as they can answer many questions , or they are in a good position to go and ask a doctor your query and bring back a response. Never be scared to email a Consultants Secretary with a question either , they will often get a response for you and explain something you missed well , especially as their Consultants are often more scared of their Personal Assistants than anyone else!

[Rosina1871 in reply to Blearyeyed]

Thank you

[Longtimer in reply to Rosina1871]

Maybe when the conversation starts say, I have made notes of questions to ask....it will let him know you have some!....good luck....

[Rosina1871]

Thanks for the tip. It was difficult to get a word in at the beginning.

[Sharitone]

Mine asks 'What is the thing that is bothering you most?' Ie., don't try sneaking in another one! But I guess if everyone runs over their half hour, he'll miss his lunch.

[Rosina1871]

I would have been pleased with half an hour. It was the fact that 85% of the conversation was his 🤣🤣

[MamaBeagle]

It's said that people talk a lot to hide their anxiety.....mmm. Use that to your advantage next time👍