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How long does it take for referrals within Mayo?
Visiting Mayo Clinic | Last Active: Nov 5, 2021 | Replies (13)Comment receiving replies
Hi @naturegirl5
My starting point, or original doctor, at Mayo was the genetics doctor, and he was the one making the referrals. He referred me to Neurology. It was just a matter of him switching one referral from pain med to pain rehab.
Great minds think alike 🙂 -- I called Pain Medicine yesterday to ask why they denied my referral and what the difference was between Pain Medicine and Pain Rehabilitation. After talking to them I decided I don't care if I see either department on this trip, as I am seeking a diagnosis for a problem that I have had for 30 years. At this point I don't want more medicine or the pain rehab program, since that seems to be a program that weans you off pain meds, and I am not ready for that.
I've seen more neurologists than I can count since my pain problems started (including one at Mayo 30 years ago), and every single one has given me an EMG, told me me it was negative, and said my problem was not neurological. All have been extremely rude and disinterested. That's why I was reluctant to go to Mayo without some other appointments set up to at least justify the cost and the pain it will put me in to make the trip. (And that's part of what I wrote to the geneticist about, but he didn't answer). But I also called the Neurology department yesterday, and they said if I cancelled my appointment they couldn't guarantee I would get another one. So I decided I may as well go through it one more time and see if the neurologist can refer me to other departments/physicians while I am there. I'm taking one last shot at finding a physician curious enough about my physical problems to seek out answers. I thought the geneticist was that doctor, but it seems he is too busy to follow up with me. Maybe I can find another. Thanks.
Replies to "Hi @naturegirl5 My starting point, or original doctor, at Mayo was the genetics doctor, and he..."
Hello, @mnjayhawk
I agree with @colleenyoung that focusing on the Neurology appointment at Mayo is a good starting point. That appointment may lead to other referrals and appointments.
I've talked with people who have told me that their ongoing pain is debilitating and affects every part of their life. Your pain extends back so far in your life that of course you want to get answers and do something about it. I "hear" the frustration in your posts.
Pain Rehab clinics are multi-disciplinary where you work with physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other professionals. Since pain takes over your whole life it makes sense that no one approach will fit everyone.
Whether or not you decide to look into the Pain Rehab program at Mayo I hope the the neurologist will talk to you about options and treatments available to you.
Blessings,
Helen
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I completely agree with @roch's approach to get answers to your questions.
Jayhawk, focusing on your appointment with Neurology sounds like a good plan. It is entirely possible that the consultation may lead to other appointments during this first visit as deemed necessary. Learn about the experience of others in this discussion:
- What can I expect at an Evaluation Appointment at Mayo Clinic https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/evaluation-appts/
@rwinney can also tell you more about her experience with pain medicine and pain rehab referrals and self referral options that she explored at Mayo Clinic.