Doc Roulette

A discussion I read yesterday about doctors and medical care got me to thinking about my own batch of doctors and whether or not I could do away with more of them.

My most important doc is probably my neuromuscular diseases specialist. After taking an antibiotic prescribed by a doc not versed in MG and ending up in University hospital in crisis, I don't think I would want to do without this one. Keep.

My pulmonary doc is probably second on the list. Breathing is kind of important. Due to multiple respiratory issues (moderate, persistent asthma, so far benign spots on my lungs, and moderate to severe sleep apnea) my insurance will only pay for stuff like my C-Pap, nebulizer, and multiple, pricey asthma meds if they are prescribed by a pulmonologist. Keep.

My PCP is probably the next most important doc. He is very good about keeping up with what all my other doctors do. He is a preferred provider and can do my blood work without it costing me an arm and two legs. Keep!

My gastroenterologist would come next. With the history of bleeding ulcers, GERD, and pre-cancerous colon polyps, I think seeing him once a year is pretty reasonable. Keep.

My GYN is still pretty important, even though I had a total hysterectomy years ago. Because I have no family history of breast cancer, I choose to take HRT to help protect my heart and bones (as well as keep me fit to live with). According to him, precancerous cells can occasionally reoccur in tissue surrounding the cervix, even after said cervix has been removed. I can live with one visit a year. Keep.

Without my chiropractor, I would be screaming. I could live without him, but I might not want to! KEEP!

Otolaryngologist is a keeper on an as-needed basis. I am a singer. This guy has the equipment to look at my vocal cords. Hearing and balance doc is still on tap if my 30 year on and off dizziness decides to come back. I think I can get my PCP to prescribe my Epi-Pen. No real need to go to the allergy doc. He can't do a thing about the food allergies. Arthritis doc? Jury still out. I do want to protect my joints as much as possible. This has gotten fairly severe in a fairly short time.

In this litigious society, a lot of PCP's and Family docs are afraid to tackle anything but the basics. At least around here. I can't say that I blame them. Insurance requirements also play a part in making doc decisions.

I guess my top six stay. At least for now. :P