<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

I don't intend on encouraging an advesarial relationship between patients
and their doctors.  Patients need to be on good terms with their doctors.
This kind of extreme pressure --written documentation of request for
testing-- is only necessary in extreme circumstances.  And example of an
extreme circumstance would be a very ill patient being refused tests who has
no option to change doctors, etc.  While there may be a few doctors out
there who simply refuse to order tests for reasons of ignorance, stubborn
pride, philosophical ideas, etc.  I believe most doctors want to help
people.  After all, doctors don't go through the ordeal & expense of medical
school so they can neglect & hurt people!

I believe the most common reason doctors refuse to order requested tests is
that they are under pressure from their employers or insurance companies to
cut costs.  When doctors aren't aware of the many symptoms & the vast
prevalence of CD or (any other underdiagnosed condition such as
hypothyroidism), they are likely to consider testing an unnecessary expense.
  If that is what you're working with, you may have to use a written request
to expedite the process.

I had a couple of thought provoking responses to my original post.

One respondant wrote,  "No doctor in his right mind would sign that
document!"  Probably not, but getting him to sign is not the goal.  Getting
him to order the tests is.  Most doctors would capitulate & order the
requested tests if presented with a written request.  This is just a little
trick to press the issue.  To add even more weight to your request, bring an
adult with you to the office visit to witness your request.

Another respondant wrote,  "I get anything I want from my doctor."  My
response is that I do too because I have good health care insurance.  Those
who are members of cost conscious HMOs & health plans may need to resort to
extreme measures to get what they want.

Valerie in Tacoma

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