Sign up to save your choice
Close
I'm in a really good place in my life to get tested now, financially and mentally. I know I need a doctor to order the test through the genetics lab...
My question is, does it matter what kind of doctor I look for? Is a general Family Practice doctor fine just for ordering the test?
Would love to hear from people who have already gone through this process.
Hi Noni,
Usually a GP doctor is fine. Do you have one you trust?
You can also usually call the genetics department directly should you wish to cut out the middle-man.
Matt
In reply to NoniUnfortunately I don't have a primary physician already, so I've been looking at bios of doctors near my house that are part of the same medical group as the laboratories. They have the most information available online on things like what types of health insurance they accept.
I don't think there's an actual genetics department down here with doctors that specialize in this sort of thing, other than the laboratories and they won't let me order the test myself.
But thankyou Matt! That helps a lot. :) Going to try and make an appointment by the end of the week. I kinda wish looking up doctors was as easy as looking up new restaurants to try. There is just so little information available online.
Haha If only!
It seems like you are doing some good research anyway, which is great. Have you thought about perhaps asking people in the area what they think of their doctor? If that is possible for you to do it might help when making a decision.
Matt
In reply to NoniI don't really know many people in the area...
However, I did discover while researching doctors that one of the medical groups has a Patient Representative, who you can call or e-mail. Her job is to connect patients with the right doctors. She checks things like insurance and if the doctor is accepting new patients. E-mailing took a ton of stress out of the process. I didn't bring up HD yet, because I would like to get to know my doctor a bit before mentioning it, but I have a problem with my jaw popping/grinding that really needs to be looked at so that's okay.
Waiting to hear back, but feeling much better. :)
Excellent detective work Noni! :)
Good idea to test the doc out too before bringing up HD. I hope everything goes smoothly!
Matt
In reply to NoniHey Noni,
Where are you located in the U.S.? Depending on that I/someone might be able to recommend someone.
-BJ
Oh goodness, sorry this is a bit of a late response...I'm in Oregon.
I've actually got a doctor's appointment today to get my jaw looked at, and I'm going to bring up testing then. If that doesn't work out I'll keep looking, but fingers crossed... :)
In reply to BJMy doctor is really great, but she has not been able to figure out how to do the test anonymously. She found a local genetics counselor I can talk to, but I wouldn't be able to afford it unless I used health insurance.
Sooo....I've sent an e-mail to a genetics center in Portland to see if they can test anonymously. But at the same time I'm also getting a quote on Long Term Care Insurance. It's absolutely necessary to get if I have to test regularly. I'm young so hopefully it won't be too expensive.
Hi Noni,
It is unfortunate that your local doctor didn't have much knowledge on testing anonymously. But it seems once again you are preparing yourself well for any future possibilities by checking out the options available to you.
Will you go ahead with testing now, should you find a place where you can do so anonymously?
Matt
In reply to NoniSounds good Noni. Is the anonymity vital for you or are you comfortable being tested the regular way?
The testing process can really feel like a marathon sometimes! :)
Matt
In reply to NoniI would much rather test regularly than not know at all. :) I finally made the call to an insurance provider yesterday...waiting for a call back. It took a while to work up the nerve, but I was starting to get depressed with it hanging over my head. >_>
It's true, there are just so many steps. o_o A lot of "Hurry up and wait!" XD
Insurance is all approved and in place!
I've got an appointment at a genetics clinic with a counselor November 5th. :) I have to pay for the consultation out of pocket, but if they take any blood work they said insurance will cover that. It feels kind of far away still, but it's really only a month and a half. And I've waited this long so what's a little more. It's been over a year now since I found out my biological mother was diagnosed. Man, time flies. o_o
Hi Noni!
Glad to hear there has been positive progress and that everything is in place. You have done well to ensure things are going ahead.
Still certain about wanting to know?
Matt
In reply to NoniGlad to hear you are certain about everything Noni... and that you will have a ton of friends and family to support you no matter the result, that is important.
We will be here to listen and support you too!
Take care,
Matt
