Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Tuesday, November 02, 2010 macattack asks

Q: I am considering that it may be time to seek out another migraine specialist . . .

How do you "shop" for another doctor? How do you do this without insulting your current provider?

 

I've been struggling with this for about a year now. I know that nothing changes quickly with migraine treatment - every med change you make takes a few months before you can know for sure if it's working... at the same time, I guess I don't feel like I am getting the attention I need to try and bring down the count of my migraines. I am willing to travel to another state, but before I do something like that, I want to know that it would be worth my time and expense.

Answer This
Answers (1)
Nancy Harris Bonk, Health Guide
11/ 3/10 2:07pm

Hi macattack,

 

Most doctors are open to second opinions, especially if the patient isn't seeing a reduction in their Migraine frequency. Although you  may have a good doctor, it's important to note that neurologists aren't necessarily Migraine and headache specialists. Take a look at the article Migraine and Headache Specialists - What's So Special? If you need help finding a Migraine specialist, check our listing of Patient Recommended Migraine and Headache Specialists.

 

Having a honest conversation with your provider, explaining that you would like another set of eyes to look at you may be in order. Here is one way to look at seeing another doctor: let's say you're shopping for clothes. You go to the closest department store to shop. The sales associates don't listen when you tell them what fabrics are comfortable for you, what styles you're looking for, or what colors you look best in.

 

The next time you shop for clothes, are you going to go back to that store? I doubt it. You work hard for your money, and you expect sales people to meet your needs. In a way, healthcare services aren't entirely different. Those of us who have insurance work hard, pay high premiums, or both for that insurance. Some of us have none and pay out-of-pocket for care. In either case, we've worked hard for that care, and we deserve "good customer service." Take a look at our article Patients as Consumers - Managing Healthcare and the Healthcare System for more information.

 

I say make the call and go for it, check our list and let me know what you think.

 

Nancy

 

Reply
Answer This

Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (4351) >
By macattack— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 11/02/10