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JLyn69 Asked May 2021

Considering a change in geriatrician, advice?

Sibling absolutely cannot stand doctor who tested and presented ("dumped") diagnosis of Alzheimer's and does not want to go back to her, ever. I can understand the feeling - unexpected bad news presented bluntly. Lots of thou shalt nots with no apparent regard for mental health of the patient or how the two of us were to make all this work 'yesterday', then exited the room - 'another patient waiting - see you in two months.' I was blindsided by all of it. To dr's credit, yes there was bad news to convey and no sugar-coating, but her bedside manner gets a grade of F double minus. Trying to get sibling moved has gone on for months as we deal with one issue after another, so I'm realizing the thou shalt not's may be to simply cover the doctor in case of problems.


Question to ask: must we stay with that doctor or can we change to another? Same city, different health care organization. Mum has used the one I have in mind and she and I are both well pleased. I honestly don't know what the first doctor could do to help, if anything so don't see a reason to stay with her unless I'm missing something.

JoAnn29 May 2021
Who got the diagnosis of ALZ, sister or Mom?

It all depends on the persons secondary insurance and Medicare. Not all doctors take Medicare. So you need to make sure the doctor you have in mind takes Medicare and the secondary insurance.

Then there are Medicare Advantages. Medicare has contracted out to these companies. Because of this, MAs have networks you must stay within. Old doctor may be in their network, new one may not be.

So, no problem in changing over if your insurances are excepted by new doctor.

Isthisrealyreal May 2021
Of course you can change doctors.

I wouldn't go back to someone that delivers life altering diagnosis and acts like she just ordered fast food. What happens when you are in real need of medical help? Not much if she is your doctor.

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BarbBrooklyn May 2021
Make sure the new doctor accepts sister's insurance.

Why do you think this is a problem?

vegaslady May 2021
So change doctors. What's the hang up in doing so?

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