@cacoon6 You don't need to contact Mayo ahead of your appointment unless you are sending something like imaging studies. I had to do that before getting an appointment. All the staff that I have encountered at Mayo are excellent and you don't need to try to introduce yourself ahead of time to get excellent care. You can make a list of questions to ask at your appointment and list your concerns so you don't forget while you are there. I understand the fears and concern over costs. Don't worry, when you go there as a patient who is interested in getting better, they will listen and also refer you to other specialists there because it is a team approach. For now, work on getting yourself organized with your information, questions, lists of medications, where to stay, etc. That will help diffuse some of the anxiety. I went through that too of being worried about being dismissed. I needed spine surgery and had been dismissed 5 times before I came to Mayo, and my experience there was wonderful. I got the help I needed and made a great recovery. Even though you might have detailed medical knowledge, discuss with your providers in simple language. I ran up against that before I came to Mayo and a nurse didn't pay attention to real symptoms connected to my spine problem and was very defensive every time I asked a question. You don't want to come across as a patient who diagnoses themselves and challenges opinions. Instead ask questions instead of telling them why you think it is what it is. If you feel anxious, write down your feelings and why. Do that just for you. It will help you process the feelings.