How to Change Doctors
So, you think you found “the one,” but are wondering “now what?” A “breakup” with your current doctor is best done strategically, regardless of your reasons for leaving. If you have been with this doc for some time, he or she no doubt has a lengthy chart that will be very valuable to your new doctor, as well as MRI reports and other tests that will show what your history has been. If you feel the need to tell your doctor exactly how you feel about him or her, I guess it is your choice – I just have never had a great outcome from telling incompetent or mean people that they are incompetent or mean. Just saying.
Here are some steps that you will want to take to make your transition a smooth one: How to Change Doctors
What About Second Opinions?
One way to check out a new doc is to get a second opinion before (or instead of) making a switch. You may have a symptom that you feel might be better addressed by a specialist, like bladder incontinence (urologist), depression (psychiatrist, definitely!), or cognitive dysfuntion (maybe a neuropsychologist can help you figure out where your main problems are and troubleshoot some cognitive rehabilitation ideas). In this case, you would not be making a switch, just adding a member to the team.However, maybe you want to talk to a neurologist a little more open-minded about some of the newer therapies or complementary and alternative medicine, who you would want to take over as your main MS doctor. Maybe you just want to confirm that you are doing as good as you possibly can in terms of preventing progression or easing symptoms. Maybe you just want to see if you can find someone that treats you more like a partner in your care, rather than being annoyed at your questions and suggestions. Regardless of the reason, there really is no good reason NOT to get a second opinion. However, many of us find this awkward or difficult. Take a look at these articles to see how to make it all go smoothly:
The Bottom Line
So, take a good hard look at your doctor, the relationship you have with this individual and the quality of the care you are receiving, and search your heart. If you think this is the very best you can do - that you wouldn't change anything - then good for you. I wish you and your doc many happy years together. If, on the other hand, there is something "not quite right" that you try to put out of your head between visits or things that you don't mention to your doctor for one reason or another, maybe it's time to take a look around at options. You might be very glad you did.
