How long for a complete itinerary?

My experience was that each trip, initially scheduled for 1-3 days, would extend by several days to a week, depending on what was ordered after each consultation.

Oh gosh, so impossible to book travel. We live 12+ hours away.

Usually, the closer you get to the appointment day, the more the schedule fills in. You can always phone the primary desk to get a better understanding of the schedule. I am not sure which Mayo Clinic you are traveling to. I can speak for Rochester in that, particularly if they know you have traveled a long way, they will accommodate you with priority. The hotels there are very flexible provided you let them know at check-in that your schedule is fluid. That city runs on Mayo and they will make all efforts to help make your stay comfortable.
Not really worth the travel? I can assure you this is not the case. You will find none better. People travel from all corners of the world for treatment at Mayo. The facility has mastered the art of patient care. Biopsy or lab work is done immediately, in minutes, not days. Doctors and staff work as a team and meet together to discuss each case. The facilities work toward one goal, patient first.
I myself am a patient, not an employee. I travel from two states away for care and would not think of having anything major being done anywhere else. I wish you and your son the best.

I appreciate that insight! I should have mentioned we are traveling to the Rochester location. He’s already had so much bloodwork/labs run I suppose that’s what I meant by “not worth the travel” if nothing much else would occur beyond that. IMO he also needs GI, hematology, and possibly even rheumatology on board. Just based on what we already know but can’t solve. But I certainly understand what you are saying! They are considered the best for good reason!

@summermaples
Sometimes additional tests and appointments are not made till after the first appointment. The Internal Medicine provider will decided what is needed based on the initial appointment and reviewing of medical records submitted. Some additional appointments might be added prior to first visit. They will try to scheduled everything during your 1st trip to Mayo if possible.

Are you driving or flying to Rochester?

@summermaples
Until your internal medicine doctor and other doctors you are scheduled to see do your exams and review lab test they are not going to know who else to referr you to and what additional tests/labs they want done. Most of the time after our appointment you will go to their scheduling desk and they will set up your additional test or appts. and print you out an updated intenary.

I have been a patient at Mayo Jacksonville and many times during an appt. I will be told want another lab test done, or xray, etc. Sometimes I am told to go to the lab or xray then or schedule next day, etc.

Ok so it sounds like our travel has to stay open on the back end. I was hoping not to drive 12+ hours each way but seems that might be how it works out. Thank you!

I had intended to fly since we are 12+ hours away driving (he’s no longer able to drive, it will just be me traveling with him). When our local doctor described the process she explained a full itinerary would be set for us ahead of time, but seems that isn’t the case. I appreciate your input!

Hi @summermaples I have a couple of thoughts:

You could call the internal medicine department and ask if they have any idea of how long your visit “could” take. Sometimes, they have a pretty good idea.

Also, yours is a situation where Mayo Clinic Concierge can help. They can make your travel arrangements. When they make your airline reservations they will also be able to change your flights easily, if needed.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/minnesota/concierge-services

Thank you! Great suggestions!