I had an appointment today with a new GP. I honestly thought that it would be another waste of time but have come out feeling as if I have, just maybe, been listened to!!!!

I started off by telling him about the eye pain and watering that I have been experiencing for some time and that I was hoping for a referral to an eye clinic. He is actually going to contact my optician firstly but wants to find out all underlying, possible issues, before referring me to the eye clinic. He said that if the optician does say that they had no reason for concern at the time of my visit, this doesn't mean he is going to leave it without a referral. I feel that he wants the referral to be with some history and information behind it so its dealt with appropriately. Although he still seems very negative regarding women and AS, at least he is listening and is going along the arthritis link. He has sent me for a list of blood tests first and wants to see me in another two weeks for the results. He agrees that I need a referral to a Rheumatologist - hooray!!!!!! He has asked that, upon my return to him, that I write up exactly whats been happening as he is a big believer in record keeping, and although he says that he may only skim read in my presence, he will be having a look after I have gone and arranging some referrals.

Thank god, at last, 5 years, 3 GPs and 1 Consultant later, I just might be winning!!!!!

Oh and I forgot, he actually said that Consultants nowadays only specialise in their areas so reluctantly will they ever read between the lines!!!!

Hello there,

Sounds like a keeper for a doctor, hopefully that turns out to be the case. Any doctor that takes time to listen is a big check on the Good in my book.

When I moved to Cleveland, Ohio my first rheumy did not care to listen... so after he tried taking me off my meds that were working, I found new doctor that "worked with me", listened and sought to continue me on azulfadine... even though at time was not considered a "med for AS". He was great doctor...

Take care,

Tim

Wow, great! Glad you got a good hearing. Hope the referrals go ahead OK and quickly. I'm having to wait another 3 months to see a rheumie, but at least I have the referral now.

Cemc - I feel like a weight has been lifted! I went in there with such a negative attitude, thinking it was going to be another waste of time and was so wrong!! I showed him the photo of my swollen finger aswell and he is linking it all.

Thank god I have three weeks before my appointment to write my essay!!!

Glad you have your referral. So tedious isn't it? What part of the UK do you live in?