My PCP also diagnosed PMR immediately and I was on 15mg of Prednisone within an hour or so of the consultation. Blood tests later confirmed the diagnosis. I tapered much like you describe and have been in full remission for a while now though am not complacent at all! . Where I live it is a very long journey to a rheumatologist plus a long waiting period for an appointment, but I felt no need to do that. I am lucky and grateful to have none of the complications many here have had and wish you all improving health and well-being.