Update - frustrating Healthcare system
I had my GP appt yesterday - establishing with a new provider due to insurance changes (gotta love it). They put me in as a wellness visit so RA was out the window. I was redirected every time I brought up RA and was rescheduled in 3 months for regular follow up and to discuss RA “if you still have concerns”. I was told there’s no point in getting RA labs without discussing symptoms that would have to wait.
Newest labs show iron deficiency anemia and elevated WBCs (leukocytes), which I think are likely RA related. Does anyone here typically see anemia and elevated WBCs?
My flare was temporarily dampened by the steroids but ramping back up.
Plan is to contact my GP and request another appointment ASAP strictly for joint pain. The hoops are ridiculous but I should have started this process months ago.
Onward!
I always take the official notes from my last doctor to start a new one. That will sometimes at least restart the conversation. I know once I had to ask, So are you suggesting I should sue Dr ??? for giving me an incorrect diagnosis? That at least stopped the conversation. Then for fun oh great, I will call you as the lead witness. Followed by I'm gonna be rich, I'm gonna be rich, I'm gonna be rich. You should hear how fast we start talking about chronic disease after that. Just saying. 😀 ............... rick That is one of the best responses I’ve ever heard! Mind if I borrow that as needed?!😂 That almost makes me want to be in that situation again!
I’m trying hard to see this as a learning experience. I’ve had so many patients with autoimmune disease and gave wanted to do more to advocate for them. This is giving me an even deeper perspective and appreciation for what so many go through.
Thank you for your support and excellent humor!
, ugh. I am so sorry your appointment wasn't very productive. Those insurance changes are something else, aren't they? I've had three insurance changes in the last 2 years, so I know what a pain it can be!
Also, in regards to your question about anemia; it can be an issue for everyone and definitely for people with RA. Here's some information on the topic that you might find interesting -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/anemia-chronic-disease.
I think Rick offered some good advice and I do hope your GP is able to get you another appointment asap. And I hope the doctor LISTENS to you this time!
Good luck!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.Thank you for the link and the support! Unfortunately I know my experience is all too common. If I can’t get in quickly and/or am not heard, I will go to a different provider and will continue until I get someone who is willing to listen and be an advocate. I spent too many years falsely believing doctors knew better than I did about my own health and feeling like my needs were a burden better not shared. Fortunately I’m well past that. 😁
It’s just so therapeutic to be able to vent here and get positive feedback from those who get it. Thank you again!
Sometimes you've got to learn how to play the insurance game. Does your insurance cover UrgentCare visits? If so, go there and complain like the dickens about the swelling and pain. Or to the ER if UrgentCare isn't an option. This might open the door to getting in with a board certified rheumatologist sooner.
Will keep that in mind. I think I got the ball rolling now. Thank you!
Hi
. I saw that Erin provided some information on RA and anemia, so thought I would provide a little bit on the elevated white blood count. As noted in this article on the topic. elevated WBC is often an RA symptom, particularly with active RA: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19078065/. The researchers found that it is further exacerbated if the patient is on prednisone. (Note: don't mind the age of the article. Newer research hasn't altered the finding and this abstract explains it well) Also, it may be worth while to see if the GP has a cancellation call list you can get on. It means you may have to be ready to go quickly if they have a sudden opening, but may get you in faster. Hoping you get some answers and relief soon. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
