Comments on: Hold the Mayo

By: Waiting Painfully « The Queen of Optimism

Waiting Painfully « The Queen of Optimism — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:18:34 +0000

[...] And the big one – NMO-IgG – Sent out to Mayo Clinic. I can’t afford to go there but my blood can. [...]

By: Aviva

Aviva — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:10:49 +0000

Bummer on your network only including local docs. When I first got sick — well, the first 6 months — I had a similar deal with a regional insurance company that didn’t cover anywhere outside the PNW. I promised myself and my family that when our insurance changed, I would seek advice at Jewish National or the Mayo Clinic.

My husband is convinced, however, that they won’t be able to do anything for me that local docs can’t. Plus, we’re both afraid that even if I do get a diagnosis, it won’t be any different than my current treatment, which is essentially treating symptoms as they develop.

And even though my insurance would cover my medical bills at those places, there’s the extra expense of travel, hotel, etc., that add up pretty quick.

So that’s why I haven’t gone anywhere, either.

By: queenofoptimism

queenofoptimism — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:21:22 +0000

Hi Aviva! Thank you so much as always. My insurance only covers providers in my network which is in my state. Funny enough, I work at JH as a grad student and it was dream to work there before my career took another turn. Neurologist #4 is at a highly regarded medical center near me and also named Top Doc in our local Metropolitan magazine. So we’ll see if he picks me. Thinking of you, too!!

By: queenofoptimism

queenofoptimism — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:17:46 +0000

So true, Jim. Thank you for you kind words and best wishes to you as well. You have a great list at your blog and I am definitely honored to be a part of your 50 Best Health Blogs as you narrow down your favorites. There are some really great ones out there. I’m glad to see Ask an MD, among others, made the list. Have a good one!

By: queenofoptimism

queenofoptimism — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:08:25 +0000

I believe Cleveland does something similar but also not covered by my insurance. I'll have to look in to their costs. Congratulations to you as well!! I was so giddy that I didn't mention that your blog, one of my faves is also a finalist!!!

By: queenofoptimism

queenofoptimism — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:05:58 +0000

Hi Ann, nice to meet you! Definitely shocking info. Doctor D has a great way of connecting people through the blogosphere. We're lucky to have him, huh? Best wishes to you.

By: Ann Gourieux

Ann Gourieux — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 06:18:16 +0000

Wow!!! That really shocks me about the Mayo Clinic. I guess it is all about the money. Sad news indeed.

BTW, I joined your blog on the recommendation of Dr. D.

By: WarmSocks

WarmSocks — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 04:51:03 +0000

I was wondering about someplace like Mayo where they get team together to discuss a single patient. Had no idea it was so expensive. Does Cleveland Clinic do the same thing?

Congratulations on your nomination & being named as a finalist!

By: Jim Purdy

Jim Purdy — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 04:49:24 +0000

Life is always an adventure, isn't it? Best wishes with your health care. The 50 Best Health Blogs

By: Aviva

Aviva — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 03:52:38 +0000

Congrats on being named a finalist! That’s huge!!

And *hughughug* on finding out that Plan B isn’t an option.

So if the Mayo Clinic isn’t covered by your insurance, are any of the other big ones? I’ve heard a lot more good things about Johns Hopkins than Mayo lately, although that might be because I’m focused on autoimmune diseases. Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Jewish National in Denver, and I’m sure there’s more, have similar styles to the Mayo Clinic as far as getting out of towners in for a multitude of tests and visits with varied specialists, who work together to figure out your diagnosis and treatment plan.

Thinking of you ….