X-Posted from Main - I need help...

It's been a while since I posted, so I hope you don't mind me asking a quick question. I had surgery in January, I've done very well, had no complications and am very satisfied with the procedure. However, the support system that my Dr. offered prior to surgery differs VASTLY from the support system in place now. Currently, the support groups are nothing more than a question answer hour between pre and post op patients. To add insult to injury, every appointment I have had with my Dr has been canceled or changed, twice, within an hour of the appointment (while I was on my way to the office). I am very disappointed...my Dr. put so much focus of pre and post of support and care...and I cant even get an appointment with him! What are my recourses? Overall, the surgery was fine, but I want him to know and I mean SERIOUSLY know, that I am not happy. I have updated my Dr. Review and my profile to reflect my feelings...but there has to be something else...should I write and mail him a letter explaining how unhappy I am? I do NOT want to come off as angry and bitter, but I am angry...and upset... Also, any ideas on creating a support group of my own in my area? Thanks in advance! Brandy 425/201/195

Brandi- So sorry your post-op care has been less than desirable. I am glad you did not have any complications on top of it! Can you go back to your PCP for post-op checkups? You want to make sure to have good follow up care in case any complications do arrise down the line. Northern Illinois - I assume chicago area?? I am not from chicago, but I would think there are other clinics/surgeons in town that are familiar with the surgery. Maybe call and see if you can become one of their patients or at least attend support groups?? Hopefully someone from your area will be able to give you more information about the area and possible Dr.s. I would definalty try to get ahold of your doc and let him know what is going on. Maybe he is not communicating well with the office staff?? Good luck and I really hope you do find a place you are comfortable with for post-op support and care.

Brandy WOW how frustrating for you. I have not had my surgery but I do attend the monthly meeting here in Normal/Bloomington and I love it . I know its only once a month but I have already met some great people and look forward to hearing all the updates , any way I guess Im saying I know how improtant the meetings and having someone on your side is. Im having surgery done in Evanston and the doctor I see is always having supprort meetings I can get you more info if interested. Otherwise I done know if you call your hospital in your area and see what would be invoved with getting a support group established in your area. BEST OF LUCK . I also would call the doctors office they should know how you feel --AMY