Question:
Can I change surgeon?

I had my first appt. with the surgeon on Nov. and I had my entire pre requirement for the insurance by Dec.15. (Endocrinologist and Psychiatry). I had call several time since then and they had not sent the paper to the insurance for approval. They told me that went they hear from the insurance company that they will let me know. The staff sound annoyed at me and pretty much told me not to call and wait for them to call me. Would it be unethical to switch surgeon at this time and if I do it can I get a copy of my chart so I don't have to repeat what I had done so far. Any comment will be appreciated. Thank you, Ana    — Ana H. W. (posted on January 12, 2002)

January 12, 2002
Ana, </p> No , changing surgeon's right now wouldn't be "unethical" if you don't like the treatment you're receivign fidn a surgeon's office you do like. If you're partial to your surgeon, then bring the staff's behavior to your surgeon's attention. This is a MAJOR life change and you should be comfortable with the person's that will be there for you while you're making it. Good luck to you.
   — Elizabeth D.

January 12, 2002
Ana, I was uncomfortable with the treatment I was getting from my first choice of surgeons and switched. It turned out to be the best thing I ever did - for many reasons. If you want the entire sordid story, email me @ [email protected] and I will respond with all the details - I really don't want to post them for the world to see. Bottom line - if for any reason you aren't comfortable with your surgeon and his staff, find one who does "suit" you. Patty Butler
   — Patty_Butler

January 13, 2002
Ana, You should also know that your medical records are YOUR medical records. They do not belong to the physician. You have the right to get copies of them any time you want. Usually if you go to a new physician and sign a release form authorizing the previous doctor to send a copy to your new one, there is no charge. If you want them sent to you, they'll normally charge a fee for copying. When I left Kaiser, I had them send my records to my new PCP, which they did free. I also wanted a copy for myself and they charged me 10 cents a page, which I thought was reasonable. And, NO, it is not unethical to change doctors any time you feel uncomfortable with one you're seeing. Again, YOU pay them to work for you, not the other way around. Good luck whatever you decide.
   — garw