Connect
Difficulty scheduling tests, finding/seeing specialist in your state?
I live in NM. Recently had two ischemic strokes, back to back (2 weeks apart). My PCP ordered a series of tests and referral to a neurologist. The tests could not be scheduled for 2-3 months owing to backlogs at hospitals/medical centers across the state (including ABQ and Santa Fe). Three different neurologist practices (also including ABQ and Santa Fe) refused the PCP's referral because "we have too many patients". My PCP and cardiologist have both recommended I try out of state.
While my situation may be considered anecdotal, my wife and I have run into a large number of people in similar straits, not just with neurology but also gastroenterology, cardiology, and other specialties.
Is getting in to see a specialist and/or getting tests scheduled/performed as difficult in the state where you live?
Can anyone shed some light on what is going on and whether the situation is likely to improve, either locally or throughout the US?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Just Want to Talk Support Group.
Connect
On November 20, 2024 I completed a video interview pulmonary interview about pancreatic cancer. I’m still they told me we wanted to two weeks before they would be able .November 20, 2024 I completed a video interview about pancreatic cancer. At that time, they said they would get back to me within one to two weeks to set appointments for further testing in Rochester I haven’t heard from anyone and I’m really getting nervous and feeling minor panic attacks. How long am I going to have to wait?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@drdoyle, I advise you to contact the central appointments office at Mayo Clinic in Rochester on Monday morning.
Phone number 507-538-3270
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday
They can look into the status of your appointments.
Do you have an account on the patient portal, called Patient Online Services?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsThank you for your advice. I will definitely call again tomorrow
I do have an account on the Patient Portal. We have been coming to Mayo for help over 40 years and this is the first time I’ve had problems. I’m grateful for your help.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsIt does seem like an anomoly. There were no messages on the portal either?
Let me know what you find out when you call tomorrow.
Hi Colleen, the only message I have received regarding this was from Jocelyn on December 3rd. Letting me know that testing is ordered and will call me when scheduled. All reports and pictures completed at university of Chicago have been received by Mayo I canceled my November 21 EUS appointment because Ashley told me it was very expensive and that my insurance wouldn’t pay for it twice and Mayo really wanted to do it there instead of at University Of Chicago. She also told me that I would hear back in one to two weeks. It’s been almost a month. I will definitely let you know I learn tomorrow
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionGood morning I took your advice and I did call the central appointment office at 7 o’clock this morning. I spoke to a girl there named I believe it was Gillian or Gillian. She listened to everything I had to say and did some research. Then she transferred me to a girl named Haley in the Gastro department Where I learned something really disturbing. Yes, my tests have been ordered. No, they’re not scheduled and it’s a 2 to 3 month wait! I wish I had been told that at the start of this I wouldn’t of wasted time I just would’ve gotten it taken care of University Of Chicago And be beside myself
Hi Colleen, I don’t know if I sent my last message to you or just out into the atmosphere. What I learned in my phone call this morning is that I’m on a waitlist of 2 to 3 months pancreatic cancer can’t wait that long. I wish I had known this when I first called in November
@drdoyle, I can imagine your concern about waiting 2-3 months. I'm surprised that this information wasn't shared earlier with you. Is there any chance of getting in earlier? Have you been able to get an earlier appointment in Chicago?
@colleenyoung I definitely should have been told about the 2 to 3 month wait during my video appointment on November 20th. Thankfully I am scheduled for the EUS on January 8 at University Of Chicago. The lack of communication and concern I experienced from Mayo employees makes me wonder if Mayo no longer hires the best and brightest in support staff but rather accepts any person willing to take up space there. Makes me sad to think that can happen at Mayo Clinic.