posted
I know we can't discuss these things in the public forum - I recently switched my LLMD - the first one was very aggressive, thorough and ordered so much intricate blood work. But, she wasn't very aggressive with the ABX. The new one is much more aggressive with ABX but doesn't seem to rely on blood work so much....just kinda goes with how I feel...I feel that she may be overlooking many things "that stop people from getting better" as Dr. H says. She is super confident that she can get people better, but I'm not super sure as of yet.... I just started reading Dr. H's new book- he seems to really know what he is talking about, from all facets - both clinical and lab wise. I didn't hear all amazing things about him either and I know he is super expensive. I am worried that I may not get better because of the things that my current doctor will overlook. Can ppl be so kind as to PM me with messages about their experience with Dr. H so I can decide if he is someone I should at least try to see? I would soooo appreciate it - thank you!
Posts: 47 | From new york | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
One thing you should be aware of -- if you do actually live in New York that limits what lab testing can be done. For example -- a New York doc cannot order tests from Fry Lab and maybe Galaxy Lab as well. Those are some of the newest tests for babesia and bartonella.
The reality is that I do not think there is one best doctor for everyone. And often it is better to have an LLMD and also an herbalist or alternative (ACAM) doc. LLMD's just do not have the time to address every potential treatment option in my opinion. And also almost every doc has their own favorite med combos.
If you have found a real LLMD then my suggestion is give them 6 months. Then if you are not making progress get a 2nd opinion. It takes time to establish a partnership relationship with a doc.
Often the LLMD's who write books are so overbooked they have less time to spend with actual patients and you might be better off seeing someone who is not so well known. Some top LLMD's have many PA's and you may hardly ever see the actual doc.
If you are the type of person who likes to direct their own treatment and do their own research, then often a lesser known doc who can spend more time with you might be a better option.
In my opinion, the most important thing for an LLMD is how long they have been practicing and the number of patients they have seen.
If you are a very complex patient then it becomes very important as to how easy it is to get an appointment with the doc on an emergency basis if needed and how well the office staff responds to questions and issues. And also if you are traveling can you afford to see an out of town or out of state doc monthly and can you even do that physically based on how sick you are.
Intuition and experience take priority over testing anyday in my opinion. Any test is subject to interpretation and there are just so many things that can't even be tested for. It is much more important to have a doc who will treat clinically than one who relies primarily on tests.
Good luck.
Bea Seibert
Posts: 7306 | From Martinsville,VA,USA | Registered: Oct 2004
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Abxnomore
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 18936
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He is one of the best among a select few, especially on the east coast. His approach is totally comprehensive relying on medications, herbals and supplements. Perhaps, you might want to read his new book to give you greater insight into his approach.
Posts: 5191 | From Lyme Zone | Registered: Jan 2009
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