Thanks for your input.
I have noticed that some test panels don't always have all the elements. My MCHC was in my CBC WITH AUTO DIFFERENTIAL
I have multiple issues (multifocal lung cancer, interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and a cardiac stent) with multiple Specialists at Mayo, so management of blood testing is a challenge. And these medical issues impact each other. Even my osteoporosis drug matters. The Endocrinologist has me staying long term on a specific medication because it has anti-bone tumor properties and I have cancer!
I use my Primary now to be sure I maintain a schedule for basic blood testing to identify anything going abnormal. And I need a credible base line of values because I know I may be given unusual medications in the future.
I am 90 miles from Mayo so I need local Primary for little things. But he obviously does not have the depth to manage complex situations. I have suggested to Mayo that for patients like me with complicated related conditions, there should be someone who does a high level review. Doctors need to think strategically because one thing can delay treatment of another. As an example, locally I discovered I had coronary blockage at same time as a CT scan showed probable cancer. I knew that the blood thinning medication required by a stent would delay any biopsy or surgery for 6 to 12 months. I was on the table and when they called out blockage, I reminded Cardiologist about my lung issue. They understood and put me on medication. I had lung cancer surgery 3 weeks later. I would not have wanted to wait on that!!!