Coordinating healthcare professionals and ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding your healthcare is probably one of the most difficult parts of having a chronic illness.  I find that especially true when a new doctor is dropped into the mix. Will insurance cover the physician? Will the doctor understand the role the transplant has in my overall health? Does he respect that I am a well-informed patient?

Recently, I was referred to a new doctor and found that though my insurance covered his visits, he was not the doctor for me. He had no desire to call my nephrologist to discuss my case and ask questions about my immunosuppressive medications and treatment options. Though I brought up my lowered immune system several times as a deciding factor in my treatment, he told me not to worry. He also acted as if my questions were unimportant and insignificant. But boy did I worry! I knew from the things he was saying that he didn’t have a full understanding of how immunosuppression works or how treatment could effect my kidney transplant and possibly reduce my kidney function.

After worrying for a week, I realized I needed to change doctors. I spoke with my nephrologist who gave me some recommendations of physicians who were comfortable working in a team environment. Now my new doctor and my nephrologist talk often about my course of care and both are more than happy to have me ask questions.

The bottom line is that if you are uncomfortable with a healthcare professional, or you feel he or she doesn’t respect your needs and thoughts on your care, you have every right to change providers. Your health is about you! It took me a few days to realize that it was not the end of the world if I offended the doctor by leaving his practice. In the end, I want what’s best for me. You should too!