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Have you ever switched doctors for your PsA?

Have you ever had experience switching doctors for your PsA? What led to the decision? How did you prepare for a new doctor? Please share your experiences with us.

  1. How many doctors do you see?

    1. Yes..after 17 years with a wonderful rheumatologist insurance change required a dr change. Unfortunately, chances in that practice meant I had no continuity of care and a "dartboard " approach to meds. Now drive 4 hrs each way for a wonderful dr

      1. wow 4 hours is crazy. That takes up almost an entire day for you. It's said that it requires that for you to be able to see a wonderful dr. Vickie W., Team Member

    2. I am fortunate in that I receive my care at the local VA Medical Center. I've had the same rheumatologist for over ten years.

      1. , thank you so much for your kind words and empathy. I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling to get in with your current rheumatologist. It's all so stressful, isn't it? More so if you're flaring and your treatment isn't working. I'm really sad to hear that the Simponi Aria didn't work out for you. It can be so disheartening when this happens. I'm not sure if you've tried calling the rheumatology office, but sometimes calls seem to get a bit more attention than messages (that's if they answer the phone!). Hoping you can get seen soon. You also deserve good care and relief! Keep me posted and I will definitely do the same. Hugs! -Catherine, Community Moderator


      2. , your words to all of us in this community are always so warm and comforting.
        We'll be hopeful together for good rheumatology care!

    3. Tried to find new Rheumatologist after having enough gaslighting. However, in the clinic at our training hospital here, I was told I could not use any other Rheumatologist there as I "complained" that doctor would not accept previous diagnosis.

      1. Hi , thank you for taking the time to share here. It sounds like you've been through an awful lot with this. How terribly frustrating. I personally find the stance of the training hospital quite troubling too - one would hope something like that would not affect a patient's ability to see a different rheumatologist/seek a second opinion at the hospital. Are there any other rheumatologists in your area? How is your PsA at the moment? Please know that we're all here anytime you need support or a safe place to vent. Sending soft hugs! -Catherine, Community Moderator

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