Help with Barix x-post

Good Morning everyone, I need some suggestions regarding a rather unusual situation. One week post-op was the last time I saw my surgeon for a check up, and here's why. I'm originally from the suburbs of Philly, however, I'm a full-time student in Pittsburgh, about 6 hours away. That being said, I'm covered on my mother's insurance which only covers healthcare providers out in the greater Philly area. So, when I had my RNY it was done over my 3 week holiday break by a local surgeon. She saw me at 1 week to give me the o.k. to return to school, but everytime I have tried to schedule an appointment, I get hell from her scheduling assistant. I have painstakingly explained to her on more than one occasion that I am a full-time student who lives too far away to schedule a same day/week appointment. She does not seem to get this, because everytime I tell her I need at least 2 weeks to plan around class and exams, she gives serious attitude.

However, her attitude isn't my main concern. What I'm concerned about is being given a clean bill of health, and making sure that my labs are OK. In addition to all of this, my health insurance is about to run out becuase I graduate at the end of April and my new job doesn't begin until June.

Any suggestions on what I should do?

Circumvent the attitude.   Call the Dr. directly.   I believe Dr. P gives her # to her patients.   If you don't have it, maybe someone (Pam??) on here can give it to you.   If you've gotten your labs done it is easy enough to fax those in and have her leave you a message regarding them.   Ask for her email when you talk to her.  I'm beginning to think some of Barix' patients need to make YouTube videos to forward through email or set up Skype appts. and do them over the computer if they want to be "seen".   There should also be a practice nurse that could see you or talk to you.   I would definately (nicely) complain about the run around.   There are cir****tances where patients cannot bend THEIR schedules.   The doctoring shouldn't stop when the operation's bill gets paid by the insurance company.   

Just call Luda (dr. P.) on her cell phone and explain you situation.  She always answers.

Congrats on graduation coming up and the new job... did you get a job in back in the philly area?

I think you have handled yourself very well with what you are dealing with... either call Dr. P directly... or talk to her asst.... I know when I had an issue a few weeks ago Dr. Boe's asst got me apppointment when my husband and I could both be there... so, don't give up... if you have to... give them heck hehehe...

Thanks! I got a job in Pittsburgh, so I'm going to be staying here for a while. Although ultimately I want to move back to Bucks. I will keep persisting!

Take control of your healthcare, let her know that she is providing you with a barrier and it is making you uncomfortable.  As a medical practice Manager, I rely on feedback from patients, so you could speak to the manager.

They should support you in any way they can, you are the patient!

Exactly!  I will echo the words of K Rock and tell you that you are the patient and to ignore the attitude.  I am also in the medical field (a medical director).  The flow of the office runs on schedules, but without patients, there is no office.  Call them, tell them what you require and don't back down.  If you don't get satisfaction, call back and ask for the office manager.  You are woman, hear yourself ROAR and guaranteed, they will hear you!  Dr. P won't be happy when she hears of this... 

Shauna