My 3 mo X ray - Discs tilted all over the place

[Katie]

Dear Lord Steve, I feel sick for you. I can't believe they play with people's lives like this. Actually, I do believe it, as they are doing similar stuff with me at the appeal level.

I've often been worried that someone is reading these posts and started to watch every thing I said, but these forums are the only place to really talk to people who understand. So I tell my tales and hope for the best.

I wish I had some words of wisdom to offer, but all I can do is wish you well, and tell you that I understand your frustration. This system sucks. I wish they taught compassion and ethics in medical school as well as how to cut.

[JKDE302]

After all the nice things you say about Dr B you would think he would just fix this problem for you..I hope after he looks at the CT scan and new x rays he will do the right thing...

[Cindylou]

I'm sorry Steve. Yeah, I hear you. You definitely don't want someone with less than impressive credentials to touch your neck! I don't have any pearls of wisdom either, except just wishing you resolution and pain relief as quickly as possible.

[dshobbies]

What a snooty bunch of snivelling quimbies. Some doctors just act like three year olds and I suppose as long as others are willing to grovel at their feet, they can get away with it.

I have never heard of all this psychological testing just to have a very necessary back surgery. It would seem to me that they're looking to skew the results of their successes by hand picking their patients instead of simply doing the best job possible. I guess that's one way to build a reputation!

Doesn't matter - their refusal to see you is unfortunate and I'm sorry. I'm sure Dr. R will do a fantastic job for you. Perhaps your aunt will treat you like a little puppy and you won't want to return home

I know you're angry but shake it off and just get on with whatever comes next. Easier said than done perhaps but screw it, TBI isn't worth your aggravation anymore.

Please keep us posted - hey - why don't you sell your story to the soaps only don't change the names to protect the innocent. Good luck Steve,

Dale

[steve55]

Well, I'm very pleased with dr b's efforts thus far. Dr Regan's deal is simply tough to beat, I guess cause insurance is covering the fusion part. Even if dr b was able to go from $18k to $10k, I still feel I need a local doctor to follow up with in case problems develop. Also, I've since learned that radiology facilities require a us based prescription for x rays and mri's etc. Dr Regan is well qualified and it's easier to go see him if post op issues occur.


Thanks for the well wishes everyone.

[sahuaro]

Steve:
I've been following what has become your saga and am so sorry you have been put through the mill. Just want you to know that Dr. Regan did my surgery and I know you will be in good hands.
So, now that that's settled, hopefully you can focus on finally feeling better.

[fuzzy]

Thank you Steve for sharing your continued story. It really helps me and others.

I do feel you are on the right track with your concern about local follow up care. I myself have no problem getting follow up imaging studies ordered as my GP does is all for me. When I need xray or MRI, he writes order (and I pay, lol). But in a more complex case like yours its obviously more then just the studies but getting looked after without having to deal with email, long distance etc. The *only* reason I feel comfortable with Germany is that I grew up there as a kid and speak the language. Also have family there. The only thing I still have to contend with is the stressful travel there, especially if there were problems.