Changing Doctors


Changing Doctors

Being Alive; November 1993
Steve Palmer

I recently decided to change my doctor at Kaiser. I had a primary care physician whom I had been assigned to when I was enrolled. He was knowledgeable, friendly, understanding and a very good doctor. When I was diagnosed five months ago with HIV, he knew what tests to run and seemed informed about HIV. After reading a great deal and talking to other people, I decided he was not enough. My concerns were that I needed a doctor on the cutting edge of HIV because treatments and therapies seem to change so often. General practitioners tend to be conservative, they do not want to try new or controversial therapies, and often they do not have the time to keep up on one disease, especially one that seems to change daily.

I had some fears and concerns about changing my doctor. I had always thought that my doctor knew what was best for me and not to question that. I could be intimidated by his knowledge and authority. I was also concerned he might treat me poorly or rudely if I were to question his knowledge. I have since come to the conclusion that doctors do not necessarily know everything. I have to be comfortable and trusting of the ones I choose. Also, I cannot be concerned with his ego. After all, it is my life that is at stake here.

I decided to talk to a doctor at Kaiser's HIV clinic. I was informed that all it took was a written referral from my primary care doctor. I had a particular doctor that I wanted to see at the HIV clinic and was told that I could ask for a specific doctor, or give my top two or three choices, but that if they were booked, I would be assigned to another doctor in the clinic. I had been told by a number of people that all the doctors at the HIV clinic were good.

Well, I have just been to my primary care physician and for now I am staying with him. Come to find out, he is an infectious disease specialist. He thought I knew. Even though I am not changing doctors at this time, this whole process has helped me a great deal. I see that I cannot assume anything and must always ask questions no matter what they are. I am also well prepared for when I do need or want to change my doctor. My fears were unfounded, my stress level is down, and I am confident that I am getting the best care that I need. Taking charge of your life can sometimes be frightening, but it is well worth it.

(Steve Palmer is a member of People With Kaiser.)
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This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
©1993. AEGIS.