Yesterday's post (also published as late as this one.... sorry..... life, y'know?!) laid out a nightmare scenario. The comments pointed out that I have good insurance, a connected network of physicians, friends with the ability provide specific advice, and the mental acuity to handle it all.
And none of that meant anything at all, until this morning.
The triage nurse called and we have an appointment! She explained why we wait until Tuesday; it's medically appropriate. She apologized for my having to call so often, adding that my calls did, in fact, move us to the top of the list. They are overwhelmed; nine of the doctors in the practise have recently resigned.
Lesson One: We are lucky to have Medicare coverage and a local hospital with an excellent Emergency Department. Still, there was a slight delay in registration until the insurance goes through. If it were denied, would they ask for cash up front?
Lesson Two: Our network of connected physicians seems to be shrinking every day. It's easier to make more money near Phoenix than it is here in Southern Arizona. That's how we lost our wonderful primary care doctor; more money, fewer patients, more time for everyone. Most everyone we know travels to the Mayo Clinic. Records are being requested now.
Lesson Three: We have great friends, and between them they know everyone. The father of a friend of a friend's son, a specialist in the area, provided a script for me to use. I read the text message into the ear of message taker. She asked me to repeat it back, to be sure I get it right.
Lesson Four: There is absolutely nothing wrong with being the strongest advocate imaginable. I led with worry and fear and concern. I never blamed the message taker. But I damn well let them know how unbelievably pissed off I was that nothing was being done to fix the problem. I reminded them that I'd called before, and that I would be calling back in a few hours. I did all this with good humor and ferocity.
It's a lot easier to think rationally once a plan is in place. If your red flags went off at the simultaneous departure of nine colleagues, so did mine. I'll do a little digging. Pain is well controlled without anything more than OTC remedies. Showered and fed and loved, patient and spouse are doing just fine.
The sun came up and we were here to see it. By definition, it's a good day.
This is much better news for you than yesterday's post. Keeping on calling worked out, I am glad the triage nurse finally called you.
ReplyDeleteSO much better news! Thanks for caring.
Deletea/b
Some welcome improvement over yesterday, that is good news. One question, does Mayo in Scottsdale still take Medicare? Hope the patient continues to improve.
ReplyDeleteFrom the Mayo Clonic web site, just now:
DeleteYes, Mayo Clinic is a participating Medicare facility in Arizona, in Florida, in Rochester, Minnesota, and at all Mayo Clinic Health System locations. We accept original or traditional Medicare (Parts A, B, and D), as well as supplements. We do not accept noncontracted Medicare Advantage Plans.
Thank you, Little Cheese.
Deletea/b
I hope you don't mind if I answer Jim - to the best of my knowledge although I haven't checked lately, Mayo Clinic DOES take traditional Medicare and a supplement, but does NOT take Medicare Advantage. My sister with traditional Medicare has been able to go to Mayo.
ReplyDeleteThank you, that's what I thought as well, but appreciate the confirmation.
DeleteI don't ever mind people talking to one another, Carol! Medicare was all they asked about on the intake form.
Deletea/b
The doctor shortage is going to be a constant as we all get older. Glad you had the means to make things happen. Here's to good health!
ReplyDeleteAnd if H-1B visas cost $100,000 we'll be a medical wasteland.
Deletea/b