long wait to see neurologist
I have a new, tentative diagnosis of MS. My neuro-opthalmologist said that I meet criteria and they've found a few active demyelinating lesions on my MRIs that I am currently on steroids to manage. He has stressed to me that I need to be seen urgently my an MS neurologist so that I can start official treatment for it, because the steroids will only protect me from another attack for a few more weeks. The MS neurologist isn't able to get me in until March. I am overwhelmed and I feel like my health is not in my own control. Does anyone have any advice on how to get seen sooner or how to handle the unpredictable waiting period?
, my heart goes out to you. I think it sounds like your neuro-opthalmologist is pretty on top of things and doing all he can to get you the care you need in a timely fashion.
Unfortunately, a long wait for a initial intake appointment is not unusual. Frustrating? Heck, yes! Unusual? Sadly, no.
If you haven't done so already, I would see if your neuro-opthalmologist can put a call in for you, stating the importance of you getting in earlier. Sometimes, that works. Also, you can be asked to be put on a cancellation list at the neurologist's office and in that case, you would be called if another patient cancels an appointment and that slot opens up. This actually works for many of our members, but the short notice can be hard if you have a full time job or other obligations that are hard to move around. You can also see if your neuro-opthalmologist can refer you to another neurologist in your area (and in your insurance network).
I know this must be incredibly frustrating and probably nerve wracking for you. Please know you are not alone in this. It's hard to feel like you're stuck in a holding pattern when all you want to do is get some answers and get started on treatment! And feel free to ask more questions here or just vent if you need to.
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
