Question:
Anyone have problems with their PCP documenting things?

I have been very frustrated with my PCP. She was in total support of me having the surgery, but now is being a pain with writing the letter. She doesnt want to write that I have lots of problems with my knees and back since SHE never saw me about them specifically. My ortho doc is no longer around so I cant get those records. But why is she being difficult? Its not like I would run to her every time my knees or back hurt. I have torn cartilage in both and there is nothing she can do about it! I have also found that in looking back in her records, she didn't write much at all about the endless conversations we had about weight loss programs! Just frustrated. Thanks.    — emilyfink (posted on March 15, 2002)

March 15, 2002
Yes! I can definitely relate to you on this one. Not just my PCP but also my Pulmunologist (sleep apnea) and my Psychiatrist (depression) have been just awful in trying to get paperwork processed for my Social Security Disability claim. I realize that I may not receive sympathy from many who don't like the idea of government assistance....just remember...if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all! SSDI is based on your work credits. When I was still able to work I always worked very hard. I miss working. (Sorry, different subject) I know that doctors are very busy and that paperwork, especially from any government program, takes up a lot of their time, but I also know they have specific people on staff in their offices for this. It took me nearly 3 months to get records from my Pulmonologist's office. When I looked them over I couldn't believe he had hardly written a word!!! Vitals and either "patient is doing well" or "patient is not doing well" are about it. So I typed up my own summary of my medical history for the past 15 years or so and I'm giving each doctor a copy. Perhaps that's what you could try. Good luck to you, I understand your frustration! - Anna
   — Anna L.

March 15, 2002
I can totally understand. My PCP is also in support of WLS but she won't write a second letter for my insurance company. I needed a letter stating that I had tried Xenical and that she told me to stop because it wasn't working. SHE lost the page that had that information and now won't write a letter because she believes that I decided to stop on my own. It's really frustrating and I know I am one of hundreds of patients but I really need my PCP and her staff to keep good notes just like we all need and deserve! We're with you!
   — jenn2002