Help in making a decision please!

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-20-2003
Help in making a decision please!
5
Wed, 01-26-2005 - 11:32pm

I am a previous poster who has been MIA for a while now.  ANyway, I have a question. I just received a letter today from my Endocrinologist that says as of March 1st he is closing his practice, ahhhhh!!!  This really stinks as he is the only one in town. He did supply a list of Endos who are taking new patiens, however the closest one is a good 45 minutes away.  He also supplied a list of about 6 Primary Care Physicians, all of which are in our city.


So my question-----I was first diagnosed in Nov of 03 and after about 6 months, my levels were within normal and have been since. I currently go to see my Endo every 3 months and he checks my levels at that time.  Again, everything has been fine, in fact about 6-7 months ago, he lowered my dosage of Synthroid from 150 mcg to 137 mcg.  Nothing major, but every little bit is a improvement.  Anyway, I am struggling if I go ahead and start seeing a new Endo, or if I just go ahead and see a Primary Care Physician since my hypothyroidism seems to be under control?  Obviously, the most convienent would be to see a Prim. Care Phys. since I don't have an ENdo in my area anymore, however I also like the point of having someone who specializes in this area, ahhh!


I do get to see my Endo one more time the first week of Feb, so I do plan on asking him at the time what he would suggest, but thought I could also get some feedback from you guys!


TIA!


Laura



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iVillage Member
Registered: 11-09-2001
Thu, 01-27-2005 - 8:01am
Hi Laura - I vote for a new endo. Everything may be on an even keel with you now, and that's great. But if you should need more expert care at some point in the future, that would be a diffcult time to start looking for a new endo. At least it's only an inconvenience once every 3 months!! Just my 2 cents. Good to see you again! Cathy :)
iVillage Member
Registered: 05-19-2004
Thu, 01-27-2005 - 9:02am

When you see your endo one last time ask if he could maybe write out what you need tested. Not just your tsh..but your free t4 and free t3 also.

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-22-2004
Thu, 01-27-2005 - 9:59am


Hi Laura!

Is there any way to get more information about the docs on your list? My HMO had bios of the Endos and GPs online, so I searched until I found an endo who trained in hormones and specialized in thyroid. There is also a parent's support network online in my area and I posted to that board for recommendations... a couple of people recommended their PCP. Because it depends on the person, doesn't it? We all know there are endos out there who don't seem to have a clue about current diagnosis/treatment... there are PCPs who don't either (and they are less likely to as they couldn't possibly keep current on everything their patients might have...); but sometimes you just luck out and find someone who has had experience and is really well informed... then it's worth the drive for sure!

OK, good luck,
Take care,
Dee.

ps. so glad you've been well!!!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-20-2003
Fri, 02-04-2005 - 12:09am

Thanks everyone for posting.


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iVillage Member
Registered: 11-09-2001
Fri, 02-04-2005 - 9:00pm
Laura - that's amazing!! So you're all set. Very cool! Cathy :)