I have and have had many things associated with RA: Horrible neck and back pain with DDD; joint pain in shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, knees, legs, and feet; Baker's cyst in knee; osteoporosis; elevated RF; anemia; swelling in face, stomach, hands, legs, and feet; all of my internal organs affected; stabbing, burning pains in my hands, legs, and feet; pains in eyes; high blood pressure/rapid pulse; high serum cholesterol, high serum sodium, high serum fibrinogen, high serum calcium, high serum protein, high Sed Rate/CRP; low IgG and IgA, high protein in urine; 26% plasma cells in bone marrow; kidney cysts/lesion; lesions in lungs; chest pain/heart problems; chronic fatigue; and numerous other symptoms, but doctors refuse to even acknowledge RA. They are obviously being paid huge year-end bonuses by the HMO to keep costs down by not diagnosing anything that requires treatment and numerous visits. My maternal grandmother was not diagnosed with RA until her late 60's after all of her internal organs were damaged and she had to walk with a walker.
Q: Why do HMO-contracted doctors refuse to diagnose RA?
I'm Canadian and don't know an awful lot about the medical system in the US, including HMOs. However, getting diagnosed with RA can be a bit of a crapshoot - e.g., some doctors refuse to diagnose RA if your blood tests are negative, but approximately 20% of people living with RA are what is called seronegative, i.e., have a negative RA factor. Seeing several doctors before you get your diagnosis is unfortunately fairly normal. All I can suggest is that you keep pushing, see different doctors and trust yourself. You mention a number of symptoms that may indicate things other than RA - has your primary care physician sent you only to rheumatologists or to other specialists, as well?
Sorry about your current situation. I love my HMO and my doctors and HMO have been the best care I have ever received.
A lot of it deals with the doctor and not the HMO.
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