Inability to get GP to do t3 tests.

[Bears010]

Had bloods done today (still no request for t3) GP said Portsmouth PCT don't support these tests as they are not necessary (!) So today I rang the PCT and all of the people I spoke to said the same 'that's nonsense'. This includes the manager of the lab! She also told me that my results were available now. So how come my GP says it takes a minimum of 10 days? So as I have a work occupational health meeting in the morning I went to surgery to get them. Apparently I can't see/have them before the doc so will have to go back after 2pm tomorrow but he may not have got to them by then.

What the hell do I have to do to get treatment. If my TSH T4 are within range he will not refer me to endo. Even though A&E have recommended it.

Only just managing to function, certainly not fit for work. My job is on the line now and so is my house as I am down to half pay. That will help with my stress won't it!

[shaws Administrator]

I suggest you email [e-mail] for a list of private doctors. There may be one near you.

[Heloise]

Bears, there have been a few who have had the system work for them and possibly going private if you can afford it may work. It's a shame that many have gone with self-treatment which is probably a last resort but if your case is not complex with other issues involved, I personally don't think it's out of the question.

[ladytelita]

I know our lab plays up loads. A recent test for thyroid showed my tsh within range so they didn't bother to check t4. My GP did insist though and I had another lot taken to be checked. They've been very slow though. It's now arrived back at the surgery but I can't have the result as the doctor hasn't looked at it. *sigh* I wonder what they'll do if it's still low after the tsh came back 'normal'.....

Go back to your GP and tell them what the lab said to you, including names if possible. Maybe he'll do it. And if the A&E dept have recommended it then I would say so. If he refuses ask for a second opinion.

[liz1952]

Change doctor NOW...x

[Bears010 in reply to liz1952]

Hi Liz

I'm in the process but it takes time! Just finding one who doesn't consider me 'out of area' is proving difficult. I have sent off for private FT3 test (cant afford more as am now on half pay at work due time off). My work ohs doc agrees I need increase in levo, and has given me letter to ask for proper testing and a referal, not holding my breath! If he ignores the hosp recommendations don't see this will help, but cant hurt. Will take ohs all blood results when I get them and see what he says.

[liz1952 in reply to Bears010]

This is just so unfair, you deserve much better treatment than this. Too many people - including GP's unfortunately - don't take Thyroid issues seriously enough, it's just so so wrong. Good luck! You've got us..x

[Bears010 in reply to liz1952]

Thank you Liz

Have signed on with new gp today, waiting for initial consult. In meantime have ordered private ft3 test and have had unofficial mineral hair test that said I was severly deficient in glutathion (which you need to convert t4 to t3) so hopefully will have all my ducks in a neat little row ready for inspection thanks to everyone here. It's so good to not feel so alone any more.

X

[liz1952 in reply to Bears010]

Good luck - and give them hell, ha ha ha ha. Update at some time x