The Relationship Between Me and My Neurologist

When it comes to medical providers, it is very important to find one that you are comfortable with. You should feel free to let them know what is going on, how you feel, if meds are working or not, or anything else related to why you see them. When there is a pleasant environment in the doctor-patient relationship, it is easier to let them know your thoughts.

How long have I been with my current provider?

I have been with my current provider for about the last eight years. I think it is great when you can stay with a provider for so long. I, for one, do not like starting over. I hate retelling my health history and answering the same questions over and over:

• What have you tried?
• How long were you on this?
• Were there any side effects?
• Have you noticed any new symptoms?
• Are you willing to try alternative therapies?
• Have you used Botox or would you like to try it?

My provider knows everything that I have been on. He is the one who has given me pretty much all of them. I do not have to re-explain anything because he sees it all on the chart.

How did I find him?

When I got out of the military, I was still using the military health system as a dependent. I was referred out to a civilian practice. That is where I first met my current provider. He was at a local hospital in my area. I saw him for about a year. I honestly do not know why I stopped using that clinic after that.

I then transitioned to the Veteran’s Affairs (VA) side of healthcare. I was given a new neurologist there. That provider retired a few years later. Guess what happened?!! The provider that I used to see was the new neurologist at my VA!!!

I was happy to get a provider that was familiar with my history. Yes, some things had been added, but he already knew me. Like I said earlier, I do not like starting over. I was so happy that he remembered me also.

How has our relationship been over the years?

As time has gone on, we have learned more about each other. He knows that I have children, and now, grandchildren. I remember when he was going on vacation because his first grandchild was being born.

I think I have been very fortunate when it comes to my current provider. He has always been willing to listen to my needs and input. If I ask about a medication, he is willing to give it a try. He is not pushy when I say that I want to stop this treatment because of side effects, or, if it is not helping. He will also ask what I would like to do. If a medicine can be increased/decreased, he has asked if I think the dose needs changing.

Some providers have that “God-complex.” Yes, they may have a doctorate, but, it is OUR body. We know when we have side effects. If something is not working, why continue it? I will bring the idea of new treatments to him, if I see something I feel will work for me. I am glad that he is not opposed to my ideas.

Would I switch providers?

Possibly. There may come a time when that happens. Currently though, I am happy, and my needs are met. I know he may retire one day, or, leave my current VA health system. I hope not. If he does, I would be forced to stay with whoever takes his place, or go back into the civilian healthcare market for neurology. I will cross that road if, and when, I get there. But for now, I am not looking for a change in neurologist.

How’s the relationship with your neurologist or migraine specialist?