Hello, @gastrogirl, @colleenyoung.....great to hear from you. I was up til almost 4 this morning writing you, I read your note and felt so deeply your concerns, I had to get off some info to let you know this will be a good, non-stressful experience for you. You will be guided every step, with clear response to your questions and folks helping the whole time.

Yes, you see your consulting doctor first, I suppose one of the gastro physicians? I imagine the first appt will get the ball rolling as soon as the doctor gets a feel for your needs and issues. I was very surprised and pleased the doctors had my records in the computer sitting on the desk where he sat and as time goes along, the docs and I look together at test results and imaging on the monitor, him giving me clear understanding of the body and my issues. What a dream, to actually have a partner in this process.

That's been one reason I'm better, I'm not alone! First time in years, I have someone on my side, leading me and walking with me to find answers and help me live a better life. Wow! And, of course, stay with this website. You're so smart to begin here before your appt. You go into this with folks on your side, who understand where you are and how you're feeling. That's huge.....You're beginning several steps ahead!

Then, hold on as the testing begins. You'll be kept very busy with tests in imaging and bloodwork. They are great schedulers, experts at working things in order and not wasting your time. You may sit a bit between visits or tests, but not much. When I was on the campus last week, I had 4 consults and bloodwork all in one day. I was exhausted, but I'm 74, have way too many issues to keep the staff busy and chronic fatigue and pain anyway, so add a full day and I needed to rest a bit. It worked well and had a good day. I appreciate the way they work with me like that. Kept me from making multiple trips to the campus on different days.

The Clinic is on San Pablo, off J. Turner Butler Blvd, in the southside of Jax. I live in the southside so travel to Mayo is not bad at all. I make it from home to the clinic in about 20 minutes generally. I suppose you're driving your own car, and I have no idea your age or condition, but just fyi....the parking valet service at each building is wonderful. The valets are young men, very polite, great service. I use the valet every time I visit, since mobility is an issue and I use a walker. The fellows get it out for me, are very pleasant and helpful. Cost is $8 to park, I usually tip a couple of $$. And, if you have an appt and park at one building, then need to drive to another appt in another building, there is no additional charge. You let them know and keep the ticket for the next stop. I do give each of the fellows who brings me my car a $2 tip. That's fair....

Sounds like you're already on the way with the allergy appt. Is that for tests re gasto interaction? I also had allergy testing for a medication I must take to reverse the hormonal issues that affected my blood pressure up and down, kept my potassium levels very low for years, and such. I did fine and am taking the meds and these issues are well controlled currently.....it is a balancing act that requires staying on top of things and on what's happening with my body. If you have ongoing gastro issues, you may find the same for you. I'm thrilled they discovered the underlying problem and can treat it well.

I suspect you already have your room reservations, etc. Colleen gave you good links for info. A lot does depend on your age and physical condition, and if you're alone in Jax. You may enjoy going back to your room after a day at the Clinic and relaxing. Or, getting ready or prepping for the next day and testing. We can stay in touch and I'll be happy to give a few personal pointer if you want about things to do after you finish a day, but I suspect you'll be ready to rest some.

Hope this helps, my friend. Ask away and let me know your thoughts, questions. Also, be sure to put your questions on paper now so when you sit in front of the docs, some folks recommend a journal to keep your questions, symptoms, thoughts, in one place making it easy to keep a good record for yourself. It's also good for the emotions and soul.

Be well, call tomorrow if you so decide. I think it wise to make personal contact now. You'll get questions answered, problems solved before they occur and feel well prepared and secure in the trip.

Chat later.....blessings, elizabeth

They ck'd your insurance coverage before accepting you as a patient. I have medicare and united health care plan F. This year, Mayo is paid directly. They must have changed policy since past years I've rec'd the insurance cks and signed them over to the financial office. Or, deposited and paid mayo directly. Now, I just pay my account occasionally when it show, on patient portal, something is owing. If you like, you can set up monthly payments on the portal as the need arises. I could never afford this level of are. Never....blessed and thankful. God is good! elizabeth

I have been in Jacksonville with GI problems and other stuff done still no answers when do doctors start telling you something having last test tomorrow been here 3 weeks still no answers or anyone talking do they wait till last test