America needs... neurologists
2010-Aug-26, Thursday 10:04 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
mellowtiggerIf you know any youngsters with an interest in medicine, tell them that there's a profound need for specialists who can diagnose and treat neurological problems. Job security? Yeah, there's a field of study where you're sure to get a job after you finish your degree.
This morning, I had my 6-month followup with my neurologist. Zhey referred me to a sub-specialist in neuromuscular disorders. An assistant was arranging an appointment for me at the University of Minnesota until we were told that the first available time was in August 2011. No, that's not a typographical error. I'd have to wait a whole year to see the specialist! Moving along to "plan B". I will instead be visiting a doctor with the same Noran Neurological clinic that I've been using thus far. I'll get to see the new doctor in only 1 month, on September 20th.
This time, the neurologist told me that zhey noticed a weakness in my right foot that was not there 6 months ago. No surprise (to me) there. The loss of sensation is progressing farther too, as measured by pin pricks on my hands and feet. I have full bladder control and vision, though, so multiple sclerosis is still not the clear diagnosis. Hence, the referral to a sub-specialist in neuromuscular disorders.
Cool, eh? I might have something exotic!
Now back to hiatus.
This morning, I had my 6-month followup with my neurologist. Zhey referred me to a sub-specialist in neuromuscular disorders. An assistant was arranging an appointment for me at the University of Minnesota until we were told that the first available time was in August 2011. No, that's not a typographical error. I'd have to wait a whole year to see the specialist! Moving along to "plan B". I will instead be visiting a doctor with the same Noran Neurological clinic that I've been using thus far. I'll get to see the new doctor in only 1 month, on September 20th.
This time, the neurologist told me that zhey noticed a weakness in my right foot that was not there 6 months ago. No surprise (to me) there. The loss of sensation is progressing farther too, as measured by pin pricks on my hands and feet. I have full bladder control and vision, though, so multiple sclerosis is still not the clear diagnosis. Hence, the referral to a sub-specialist in neuromuscular disorders.
Cool, eh? I might have something exotic!
Now back to hiatus.
As someone with a special interest in medical school issues...
Date: 2010-Aug-26, Thursday 03:34 pm (UTC)The wait is not so much because of a lack of specialists, If you want to drop cash you could be seen tomorrow. But because of a lack of specialists you have access too.
It would be interesting to know what the wait is in Canada.
Re: As someone with a special interest in medical school issues...
Date: 2010-Aug-26, Thursday 03:55 pm (UTC)I hadn't thought of the money issue when I made the original post. Medical access is very much a function of finances. I'm sure that waving lots of money would help me to gain access to doctors. I can't afford that kind of attention, however, so I use a taxpayer-supported medical program. I get in the waiting queue like all the other poor schmucks. :)
I was initially told it would be 6 months before I could even see a neurologist the first time around. I took the initiative to find my current specialist who had an opening much sooner. I'm always on "Plan B", it seems.