It was most informative to read your perspective.
You said:
"Let it stand or fall, not based on who said it, but what was actually said."
I think this is a core point, and one which we all need to keep in mind.
Your Userid didn't help; maybe some 'expected' more, and as had been said, in different words, we DO expect more from our physicians. Your Userid also identified you as a target for frustrations. (I chose mine as a 'disclaimer', !
You are not alone in having multiple Userids. When "Guest" postings were permitted, everyone could post 'attacks' and retain their anonymity. I am also guilty of that, regret it, and am very lucky that the apology was accepted and the issue tossed over the hill. And it is so ironic, that up to that point, I had posted numerous times that 'attacks" need to be voiced via PMs. We are still learning, regardless of age. We are all in different 'places' at different times.
Even though my internist (nor anyone else) did not identify my apnea for far too long, I need to take responsibility for that also, I did not know of such an ailment, and my verbalized complaints to her were not grouped in one visit, else I'm certain she would have come up with that diagnosis. I DO think the fact that I held my breath, etc., could have been picked up.
There ARE certain members of this forum who we can usually rely on to give us facts. These facts are even questioned, by some that aren't really 'doubting', but have the need to argue, for argument's sake. We try to let those posts die on their own. I know that we are fortunate and grateful for the varied expertise here. Also, those who question without malice are important 'questioners' for us all, for they force further detail by their wanting to know more.
Those of us without medical training continually put 'disclaimers' on our posts, for those who do not 'know us', or are new to this forum. I believe it should be understood that everything IS an OPINION. We all have them, and they can be backed up by individual EXPERIENCES. I could bet that even with all of your schooling, studying, training, that you have found that your years of experience may have altered some of those teachings. I know that my doc continues to learn through her patients. That part is called the 'practice of medicine', something which cannot be taught in schools.
Your 'availability' to us here may be a reason why we feel so free to ask/attack. I haven't attacked you that I know of, but I have others, in disguise (as others have, but that doesn't lessen the error). As you correctly said, it is out of frustration, tiredness, where we happen to be that day, etc. Nature of the beast called "Human Nature". You are wise to recognize that.
Your post gave me additional insight to the medical profession.
I've been with my internist for approximately 15 years; she knows me better than I know myself! Unfortunately, our appts. are now limited to 20 minutes! That means I go in with a list of written questions to save time; she does her very best, and I know for certain that she truly cares about ME as a person, in addition to being a patient. Luckily, I have a choice of who I see in all matters concerning my health, and I rely on her recommendations. They don't always work out, but they're pretty much on the money.
I find it sad, especially here in PA, that physicians's hands are tied in so many ways. My doc doesn't really make that much money, considering the high cost of insurance HERE due to too liberal decisions from lawsuits. She spends untold hours doing things we aren't aware (of). I received a call from my neuro at 7:30 p.m. with results of my MRI and Dexa scan. Why? she doesn't have TIME during office hours.
I need to take up this space to commend the physicians who are dedicated to their patients and their needs. I also need to give thanks to the pharmacists who are so willing and available to provide assistance when asked. I have learned much through their advice and counseling.
Thank you for your insight and honesty.
I have to repeat something here: " Let it stand or fall, not based on who said it, but what was actually said. "
That is something everyone, in or out of this forum needs to continue practicing. Many people don't 'listen' to what has been said or written, but INTERPRET it to mean something else, and react offensively. That's a problem of communication, which again, is "human nature", but it can be learned and changed, if one wants - if they recognize it.
Again, I've written another book.
I agree, we do need more emoticons! "Hugs" is another one we could use!
Thank you, be well, and continue to help us out here.
John - I really like your idea, but for some of us, our bumpers aren't that large! .JohnMudie wrote:Maybe we need bumper stickers which say I got OSA, what do you got?"
"Scoliosis, Apnea, OCD, ADD, Clinical Depression, Gerd, Hi Cholesterol, Back pain, and husband has PD" I offered to trade ailments with him, but he refused! (due to the apnea) And my offer was out of love, because I know could be in store for him. My "consolation prize is that I probably have the lowest blood pressure of most around. (91/51) Yeah, I was in that movie, "The Walking Dead"
Kathleen
