Hello, I am currently looking for a LLMD after positive Igenex results. I tried Dr.S in Duluth today and was informed that I would need a referal from my own doctor. But my own doctor probably won't do it. I was wondering if this was the case for all LLMD'S. Do they all require referrals?
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Yes, most GPs do not want to refer to LLMDs because they consider lyme no big deal and pretty much ignore it &/or are just plain ignorant of the importance of seeing an ILADS-educated LLMD rather than than the incompetent ID (Infectious Disease) doctors who follow strictly the error-ladened IDSA guidelines for diagnostics and treatment.
Talk to your lyme support group. If you have a GP who would not refer you, you probably need to find a new GP anyway, one who will be at least lyme friendly.
Also, be aware that very few insurance companies cover LLMDs. Therefore, most LLMDs don't / can't accept insurance. Be sure your guy does before trying to get a referral. If not covered, you do not need a referral.
I see that you live in Canada and are looking to get treatment from a doctor in the U.S. So, it would seem to me that would all be on your own, no insurance tie-in at all and you are free to see whomever you want if you are self-paying.
However, if you have a lyme-friendly GP on your insurance plan, they can offer good support such as ordering routine tests, even special diagnostics with specific instructions - and, maybe, even prescribing some medicines that may not be covered through a LLMD.
It's best to have a lyme-friendly GP who will be a good liaison.
If you don't have that, be very careful about sharing the name of your LLMD. Some doctors who are ignorant about lyme (and proud of it) have ruined the careers of some great LLMDs.
Again, your area lyme support groups can best guide you.
Find area lyme support groups -
Posted by cameron (Member # 28040) on :
Thanks. Yes I will pay cash to see a LLMD, no insurance. Will I still need a referral in this case?
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- If you are paying cash, and the LLMD is not in an insurance system, no referral is needed. Just call and make the appointment. -
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
But Keeb.. they told him he had to have a referral.
Cameron.. Do they know you're in Canada? That could make a big difference. They should know that the rules have changed then!
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Well, I sort of spaced out on that one. I see now that the sentence did refer back to the LLMD, I guess, who is wanting a GP's referral.
Cameron wrote: " . . . I tried Dr.S in Duluth today and was informed that I would need a referal from my own doctor. . . ."
TuTu has a point. Try again. If you let the LLMD know you are out of country, he may not need your GP's referral. I'm sure the LLMD would prefer you have a lyme-friendly GP, though, for support measures so do try to find one through your support group.
Also, let the LLMD know that you've tested positive through Igenex. They may be trying to weed out those who are more likely to have lyme vs. those who may not - if they are swamped. -