@maggie1960 Ah, yes, the portal. It comes with good, it comes with not so good communication. Posting results are great, but I agree, it does lack personal connection, especially when patients are emotionally invested in their health and may have fear and/or anxiety over the unknown. It's unfortunate about the missed call. The good news is that what they've found so far is not worthy of emergency and it sounds like they are willing to discuss if you called back the nurse. Maybe it's not worth it as you are leaving that practice.

What I found was that most of my doctors (except my PCP which I was lucky to have, he's since retired) were focused on providing the facts and not so much bedside manor by relating to the patient's concern and worry. I was guilty of major worrying which added to symptoms and did me no good. It's difficult though and I do understand the frustration of finding a neurologist you like and connect with. Unfortunately, the waiting lists are inevitable. Might you request being put on a waiting list? Or check in daily to remind them that you are very interested in being seen earlier? Sometimes chatting it up with a nurse and building a rapport helps lead the way and gets your name and situation on the forefront.

As for pain, I'm sorry you're in so much. Gabapentin is a work in progress and can continue to be increased based on results, but does take time and patience. I was in your position with neuropathy where nothing helped the pain. What I can tell you from experience is that nerve medication is an important line of defense but is not end all. Extra Strength Tylenol may be able to pitch in a bit but honestly, some of your key components to pain management are continuing to be physically active as best you can, emotional and behavioral therapies to help you deal with your new conflicted feeling during this process, sleep hygiene and healthy eating habits, etc. I hate to say your doctor was right, but with neuropathy, there is no magical medication and quick fix and that's a tough pill to swallow. No pun intended. I wish I had learned the importance of self-management tools sooner.

You've got a lot changing and going on...give yourself grace along the way. What types of distraction do you have that can help take your mind off of pain? Do you have any hobbies that you enjoy?