When you need to transition to a new doctor

orchidlily

So I've been thinking about how huge of a transition it is (both emotionally and medically) when your supportive doctor/specialist etc resigns and you need to find a new one.

Has anyone else experienced this? What has the transition been like getting to know/trusting your new doctor? What red flags or green flags do you look for when starting to get to know a new doctor?

emsarah

This is hard! Mine went on maternity leave so I'm without a good one... If there's a local Facebook group where people can share recommendations for GPs who are sympathetic that helps a lot.

Dot

@orchidlily I had to do this last year after my doctor retired. I went to a different doctor at the same clinic each time (not CFS related issues) just by who was available to see me.
1st doctor, not wearing his mask properly and sloppy diagnosis.
2nd doctor, fine (just needed a script) but didn't particularly click and prefer a woman
3rd doctor, fine but focussing on mums and small children and about to go on maternity leave
4th doctor gold. Listens, respectful, kind, clearly evidence based and straight talking. I've had three consultations with her so far, and like her better each time.

orchidlily

@emsarah that's a good idea about a local fb group. I think I remember seeing a broad one for all of Australia.

@Dot that's great to hear you found a supportive, evidence based doctor! Interesting how it took 4 tries. I've only tried 2 and I'm still seeing the second one but still not sure if I'm fully comfortable with her.

Daffy_Dave

It's always scary changing doctors - I haven't had to do it for a long while, and am grateful. Sympathies for the work you had to put in for your recent change @Dot , but much credit to you for doing it

In case useful, @orchidlily - here's a link to a Facebook group for Australian doctors:
Good Australian Doctors for ME/CFS/FM/EDS/POTS/Hashimotos - https://www.facebook.com/groups/287952358017187/

orchidlily

@daffy_dave thank you! Yes that's the one I was thinking of but wasn't sure if my foggy brain was right