It can never hurt to get a second opinion. Especially when it comes to our health. After my thyroidectomy in 2009, I realized an Endocrinologist was going part of my life as long as we both shall live. Having my thyroid levels checked has become routine. The last few times I’ve gone, I felt like it might be time to do some research and see what another Endo had to say. One of the lessons I have learned through this journey is that I am the biggest advocate for my health. It is my responsibility to make sure I am receiving the best healthcare available.
I found another Endo and they had a 3 month wait. That was fine because I still had an upcoming appointment with my current Endo. The question was whether I should tell him I was going to see another Endo or not say anything. How uncomfortable. I went and decided not to say anything. Then I found myself being really nice to him because I felt bad. What is up with that?! I also started questioning why I had made the other appointment because my current Endo is very good.
I went to the other Endo today. I really liked her. She listened and took notes. I felt heard and she made a good first impression. But this was our first appointment. Was she just putting on a good first appointment impression? Would she seem to care as much the second time?
I was proud of myself for taking action and going to get a secENDO opinion. I need to follow up and send her my latest scans and lab results. Regardless if I go back to her again or not, she told me I was welcome to send her results for review.
YES YES YES! This is exactly what I have been going through. My current endo is specializing in diabetes and focuses on that aspect without answering questions about thyroid cancer follow up. My primary has tested me and I am not diabetic. Unfortunately there are not a lot of options in my town, but I continue to look. Sometimes I think some doctors want you to fit in their “comfort zone” of specialty and don’t know what to do with patients that don’t fit. Keep fighting for yourself because when you do that you fight for all of us.