New appointment: Staying until a diagnosis is found

Posted by manny47 @manny47, Jan 14 9:42am

I have to fly to Mayo. My dr here said I’d basically stay until they found out what was wrong. Mayo wants me to go to a dermatologist (I have neck flushing but I have so many other symptoms too like muscle pains, shortness of breath and chest pain) one day and a sweat test the next. Does that sound normal? I don’t have a dx as to what is going on (that’s why I’m going). I don’t want to waste a whole trip, air fare and hotel for 1 test. Thoughts?

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Laurie, Volunteer Mentor | @roch | Jan 14 10:15am

@manny47
Mayo is a great clinic to help find answers to complex cases. It sounds like you have talked to an appointment coordinator who set up a dermatology appointment and testing.

After your initial appointment, testing and assessment, additional appointments in other departments may be arranged. Your dermatologist will be your main provider and will quarterback any additional needs. Whether or not you will be seen in by other specialties while there will depend on recommendation of provider and availability of appointments. Knowing people travel long distance to visit Mayo, they will try to accommodate additional appointments if possible.

Here are a few discussions that may help as you prepare for your appointment:
- Your Tips on How to Get Off to the Best Start with a New Specialist
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/your-tips-on-how-to-get-off-to-the-best-start-with-a-new-specialist/
- First Visit to Mayo Clinic: How do appointments work? What to expect?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/new-internal-med-patient/
- Mayo Clinic Patient Portal: How do I find it? Do you use it?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-portal/
What location is your appointment at?

delphiniums | @delphiniums | Feb 4 3:23pm

Mayo doctors do truly do their best to squeeze in any other relevant tests and diagnostics while you're visiting, especially if you're from out of state. The specialists can also talk to you via Zoom later on, if reports or other findings come up once you're home.

I'd suggest planning at least 2-3 days out here and see what they can get done. A lot of hotels near Mayo Campuses are flexible if you talk to the front desk and say you're a patient. They may let you leave early without the usual fees, or help you extend your stay at a discount.