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Visit to National Jewish Health in Denver, CO
I have read that some people on this site are interested in the value of visiting National Jewish Health in Denver, CO. I spent 6 clinical days there in October. I had consults with 5 physicians. That was decided by my pulmonologist and presented to me with a schedule. I am 84 years old and went alone although most people had a family member or friend with them. I was busy for at least 5 hours every day with testing and consults. I had two procedures requiring anesthesia, both at the same time. I stayed at a hotel as there are no inpatient facilities and traveled back and forth using Uber.
I am new to treatment and still have a lot of questions. I will continue with my pulmonologist in Scottsdale where I live. I could return for scheduled consults there if I choose. I also could have my pulmonologist or any other physician there as my primary.
The Infectious Disease physician was very thorough and suggested I nebulize with Aerobika. The pulmonologist said I only needed to use the flutter device for now. I have been doing that but find
I then have mucus for hours after use, so I am probably going to try nebulizing .
I can keep in touch with the physicians there using MyChart.
I just called up NJH and told the very helpful person on the line that I wanted to arrange a visit. It took about 6 weeks from then until I stepped off the plane.
I'll be happy to answer any questions. No question is not a good one.
Roz
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@mtinderscott2626
On antibiotic therapy from 9/24/23-2/4/24.
I go to Mayo Jacksonville and love my doctor, but have previously stated there seem to be “gaps” in my treatment. I have gone to Mayo for almost six years and have never been tested for acid reflux, have no idea of the number of bacterial colonies, and the list goes on. If you have the opportunity, go to NJH. Do not hesitate. It is the gold standard. Apparently they will tell you exactly where you stand, what you need to do to keep yourself healthy, how, when and if to take antibiotics, and so much more. Good luck!
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1 Reaction@kathyjjb the pulmonologist hasn't increased to 7%. Currently, only using 3%.
I have been with NJH for 3 years now and this is the place to go for complete testing and treatment.
@mtinderscott2626 My local pulmonologist and NJH ID doctor stressed I should use 7% versus 3%. I have heard some are on 3% due to tolerance.
@sma2 It sounds like you were not told information about all to do? What do you think, in the big picture of things, added up to all that you said happened? I, and we all, are disheartened when we hear experiences like this. So sorry for all you have suffered in all ways.
Barbara
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1 Reaction@mtinderscott2626 It appears from all I have been reading and hearing on the Mayo threads, and due to my experience at NJH, NJH does more tests to rule out other problems that might be contributing to the symptoms and BE.
I also think the Rochester Mayo may concentrate more on BE....but I am not sure of that.
NJH has concentrated on respiratory illnesses since the late 1800's. All my doctors in OKC had not recommended a specialty facility for BE but when I told them that I had made an appointment they all were highly in favor of the facility and my going.
My first visit was a bit over a week long and overall for me it was a seamless experience. I will say that in all medical things....be proactive...know who to call and when to call...... to understand all. Do not hesitate to call when in doubt or need information to make it a good experience to help yourself and...... they in the process.
Barbara
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1 Reaction@blm1007blm1007 Thank you! This is very helpful.
Thanks for sharing, Roz. I am scheduled for my visit to NJH this April. You used Uber instead of renting a car... do you still recommend that? I am looking for a moderately priced hotel. Are there restaurants and hotels within walking distance of NJH? Did you take an Uber from the airport or a taxi? Any other helpful information you can share to help me prepare?
When you schedule a visit to NJH they give you a corporate code to rent a car at Enterprise and you can rent a basic car for about 30$. Also the hospital has a cafeteria and you can eat breakfast or lunch for a very reasonable price.