LymeNet Flash: Difference between good LLMD and a not so good one?

This is topic Difference between good LLMD and a not so good one? in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

To visit this topic, use this URL:
https://flash.lymenet.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/1/47721

Posted by SAK (Member # 7387) on :

Hi there,

I need help to decide if I need to change my lyme doctor. I've been one year into treatment and I've never been worse.

So, what makes a great LLMD and a not so great one that warrants changing?

Thanks!

Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :

A good one is one who:

LISTENS

Involves the patient in the treatment decisions

Uses more than just one or two abx meds

Treats for all coinfections

Uses other tools in his/her arsenal [hormone testing, heavy metals, amino acids, yeast treatment]

Believes in YOU and your ability to get well!

Posted by minimonkey (Member # 8693) on :

Tutu said it perfectly!!!!

Posted by SAK (Member # 7387) on :

Thanks, this is helpful. My doctor fails in 2 of your points tutu.

First, my doc hasn't treated me for co-infections right off, even though I told him that I think I have babesia and bartonella one year ago. Only now am I getting treated for babs.

Second, he tells me that I may have permanent damage and may NEVER recover completely, even though I've had these sparks of feeling great during tx.

I don't like it, but I figure that's just to cover his butt...

Posted by imanurse (Member # 7022) on :

I think a good LLMD wants to identify issues with co-infections, not just treat.

I think a good LLMD does not try to hurry you off of your treatment and make you feel bad for not being well already.

A good LLMD has staff that act empathetic on the phone and returns your calls in a timely manner. If a patient discontinues treatment there, the LLMD or staff should call that patient and find out WHY??

A good LLMD attends tick borne related conferences and soaks in everything there is to know about the disease - and then implements the latest research if warranted.

A good LLMD also has the ability to express their opinion of what they feel would be the best choice, not just "whater you feel like".

A good LLMD is able to be reached for emergencies.

A good LLMD should be be able to write a compelling letter to support your disability application or insurance appeal if it truly is necessary.

A good LLMD should willing to individualize treatment for patients based upon their own medical condition, not based upon a canned standard therapy that is used for everyone.

A good LLMD does not do research on their patients without the patient's knowledge.

Posted by Aniek (Member # 5374) on :

SAK,

I personally don't think it's always right for an LLMD to say patients will be completely well again.

I had Lyme undiagnosed for 17 years. The one thing I don't trust my doctor on is when she says I will be pain free one day. I can't help but believe that in my 20 years of Lyme, it has done some damage to me that abx won't fix.

As part of fixing this, I've started working with an integrative medicine specialist to help assist my body's healing while I'm getting Lyme treatment.

Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :

quote:
Originally posted by SAK:
[Q] Thanks, this is helpful. My doctor fails in 2 of your points tutu.

First, my doc hasn't treated me for co-infections right off, even though I told him that I think I have babesia and bartonella one year ago. Only now am I getting treated for babs.

Second, he tells me that I may have permanent damage and may NEVER recover completely, even though I've had these sparks of feeling great during tx.

I don't like it, but I figure that's just to cover his butt... [/Q]

1. Did he test for Babs a year ago?

2. I think the key word is "may" in "may never recover completely". It is a fact that it is possible for these diseases to leave people with permanent damage.

He probably doesn't want you to get your hopes up too high, only to be completely crushed if there is anything permanent. That doesn't mean that there will be. You "may" also have a complete recovery.

If I may ask, who is your LLMD?

[Smile]

Ali

Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :

I think I really need help!

I completely missed "I don't like it, but I figure that's just to cover his butt" when I wrote my previous reply.

[bonk]

BTW- TuTu and Ima,
Great work! [Wink]

Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Aniek:
As part of fixing this, I've started working with an integrative medicine specialist to help assist my body's healing while I'm getting Lyme treatment.

That's why it's nice if your LLMD knows about some of the integrative stuff. Saves money, time, and trouble.

Posted by Aniek (Member # 5374) on :

Lymetoo,

My LLMD admits she doesn't know this, but she just brought an integrative specialist into her practice. I had already started working with another doctor though and I like him more than the one in my LLMD's office.

In my area, the integrative doctors who treat Lyme don't like to use abx.