Friend's hubby called me to come over Saturday morning. His call to oncologist last week for visit due to pain and continued lymphodema swelling was denied by receptionist who said: she is scheduled for tests and visit with doc in March. He didn't persist. I would have. Many aren't trained to recognize severity of or changes in symptoms.
Docs don't always know how their "front desk" staff handle patient calls. Encouraged friends to tell oncologist when they next see him and ask how to get "beyond" a dismissal like that.
Instead they saw pcp who put her on antibiotic as "a precaution for cellulitis".
Saturday, bright red rash had spread to most of her breast and down her affected arm. There was also a secretion from the arm. We went to hospital er and saw an internist who immediately said: cellulitits and deliberated about possible hospitalization before deciding to add another antibiotic, Doxycycline. Although her arm was hot to the touch, she had no temp.
I told him that request for appt. to oncologist last week...same hospital affiliation... was denied and could he please call the oncologist for appt to get my friend in next week. He agreed to fax the oncologist. He said we should see a change in few days and if not, intravenous would be required.
As all here know, waits in ER hospitals are long....ours 4 hrs. Docs don't always know what or how their "front desk" staff handle patient calls.
Thankfully, yesterday afternoon, the bright redness was reduced and the there didn't seem to be more spread. Took some "painters tape" that could be applied to check for additional spread. Hoping for a call from oncologist's office for appt.
Friends and I so appreciate the many posts, sharing of experiences and suggestions you have offered. Just wanted to share this and encourage all patients to speak up and keep seeking help and answers for serious chronic conditions. Best to all.
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