Dear Specialist

When you have a chronic illness you tend to see a ton of different doctors. With each new specialist you hope and pray that they are going to listen. The following is a letter I wish I could send each new specialist before I see them.

Dear Specialist,

Maybe I am your first patient of the day or maybe you've already had a busy day. Maybe you've seen cases like mine before or maybe I am puzzling to you. Maybe my symptoms are common to you or maybe you find them concerning. No matter what your answer is, you are the doctor I am hoping can give me a sliver of hope. You are the doctor I have waited days or sometimes even months to see. You are the doctor I am hoping sees beyond my chart. You are the doctor who I am hoping sees me. You are the doctor I am hoping hears me.

You might not know what's wrong and that's ok with me, but please listen. Please make me feel like you are on my side. Tell me you don't know the answer but tell me you are going to walk with me through this. Listen to my fears, don't just knock them down. Take a moment to realize that while my visit might last 20 minutes, my symptoms will follow me home. I know you are busy and I know you have patients waiting. I am not asking you to fix it all I am just asking you hear me, see my pain, and make me feel like I don't have to walk this alone.

Sincerely,

A Chronic Patient

What do you wish you could tell your new specialist before you see them? Feel free to leave a comment down below! And if you are currently looking for a new doctor make sure to check out my blog on how to find a great doctor here!

Disclaimer-

All information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider and/or your insurance provider for your specific situation. This blog does not offer medical advice.