Another Doctor

Justin's Oncologist in Iowa City wants Justin to establish a relationship with a family practice doctor here in town, to handle the small things that come along. He also told us to have that doctor refer Justin to an endocrinologist for his thyroid. (This is because of Justin's insurance--it has to be started in our county and referred out). I chose a doctor that we met in the ER during the months that Justin was having seizures. She showed interest in Justin, which we liked. She is not taking new patients, but made an exception when we asked her--she was excited to have him.

Yesterday I went with Justin to his appointment. They did a comprehensive medical history, a mini physical, and set up a CT scan for next week. A nurse came in to take blood, and she got it on the first try! I was happy and told her she was amazing! Justin doesn't seem to mind much, but it drives me crazy when they have to poke him with needles over and over. I hate seeing my kid have to go through that, even if it is harder on me than him...

We will go back for results in a month. Evidently after that appointment, his doctor will send the results to an endocrinologist. Then we will set up an appointment to see him. She hinted that he would probably want to do surgery to take the thyroid out. But since Justin has cancer and that AVM in his brain, they may refer him back to Iowa City for the surgery. Round and round we go.

I have a feeling this is how it will be for all of us if we get national health care, and it is scary. We spend hours and hours chasing ourselves in circles. There is so much waste this way, double doctors, double time, double opinions, etc. It would be SO much easier if Justin's doc just referred him the the doctor of his choosing based on Justin's situation. Duh.

And that is my rant for the day. I feel better.