@lookingforanswers1957

Well, at least you have a medical opinion now.

Did your doctor offer you any suggestions like some type of cognitive rehab or any other suggestions?

Teresa

He just wants me to continue with seeing my therapist and stay on my meds for now

@lookingforanswers1957

Do you not have insurance? If your doctor orders the MRI, it would be covered. Maybe your doctor doesn't believe you, so doesn't want to bother. Have you seen a neurologist? You may already have answered my questions. My neurologist asked me if I remembered any brain trauma, and I know I have. He's referring me to neuro specialist to look more closely at what all of the tests I've had might mean. I'm thankful for some doctors who listen to my questions and concerns. They don't just look at test results and prescribe another medication, but are caring enough to consider the psychological aspects of my medical issues. Thankfully, doctors are now being taught in medical school to treat the whole person, not just symptoms. Old school doctors were/are all knowing, unconcerned with the psychological and spiritual impact on our physical health.

A few months ago, I told my pcp how much I appreciated the fact that he never walks out of the exam room without asking if there's anything else I want to talk about. I'm working on getting the neurologist to pay attention to what I say. My pain specialist is an excellent listener. He knows how much that means to me.

I've learned that I can indirectly affect the care my doctors give me. I think ahead about what I want to talk about in my appointment, and have a written list in Evernote on my phone. I will let them know, as well, where I am with regard to my mental health. An old school doctor wouldn't be able to get rid of me fast enough if I brought up something like depression or suicidal thoughts. On the other hand, that would make a good doctor drop his/her agenda and sit up and pay attention.

Just sharing what I've observed over the past ten years. Maybe something I've said will be helpful.

I hope that your concerns are addressed satisfactorily. I encourage you to listen to your body and pursue your concerns.

Jim

Jim,
Thank you for the note. I have Christian Health Ministries health care sharing program. Unfortunately since it is not insurance what I have is considered a pre X so they won't cover an MRI for me and I can't afford to pay for it myself. Stinks but thats the way it is.

Thank you

@lookingforanswers1957

I agree, not having health insurance is terrible and I'm so sorry that you find yourself in this place. I'm not familiar with :Christian Health Ministries health care sharing program." Could you explain a little about that?

Teresa

Takes a while to find a team to help us. With some tenacity I now have healthcare in one network. I keep thinking positive. I realize I need to be more proactive and because I can no longer work does not mean I am low-life trash.

@parus Your words are an encouragement to so many of us!

Teresa

There is nothing about poor health that devalues the individual. I actually have come to believe that one of the main things that devalues an individual is believing that their value is greater than another. Your value to all of us comes through with many posts!

@lookingforanswers1957

I\'ve heard of that kind of insurance, and chose not to buy into it. I\'m glad to have Medicare and supplements. My wife hung on for quite awhile until she could get it because Oregon\'s Medicaid wouldn\'t be adequate. She finally got the surgeries she needed. I hope you can hang on until you qualify. I started getting it when I was 55 when I went on disability.
Jim