First doctor visit

Broadway

I am a 35 year friend of my LO.  She has given me permission to speak on her behalf to doctors.  Tomorrow, she, her husband (who may also be having memory problems) have the first doctor appointment to address her loss of memory, anxiety, and “foggy days”;  I will be there as advocate.    There are a number of factors that “clutter” the appointment: she fears the doctor doesn’t like her; she thinks he’s cute, and she may flirt, not tell the truth; her husband is quiet, wouldn’t want to contradict or be forceful in reporting what he sees in LO's daily life; the doctor is known to be a “talker, chats a lot.  My goal is to have the doctor test her for memory loss.   Can a general practice physician administer the MMSE?  I’m sure you all have the experience to advise me on strategies that will move things forward during the appointment, not antagonize the doctor, and lead to a referral to a neurologist.  I’m convinced she will score mild to middle on the test.  Thank you!!

mommyandme (m&m)

I might try to get my concerns to the doctor prior to the visit with a concise email or a physical note so he/she can be fully aware.  I’d include observations you’ve had for both your friend and her husband. 

Good luck, they’re fortunate to have you. 

Broadway

Thank you!! Good idea.  I think I’ll try getting a physical note to the doctor ahead of our appointment.

mommyandme (m&m)

Let us know how it goes.

Iris L.

Can she sign the HIPPA consent?  There is more to an evaluation for dementia than the MMSE.  If you read about the diagnostic process, you will know better what questions to ask the doctor.  It is great of you to take this on for a friend!

Iris L.

caregiving daughter

I believe the internist or GP would be the clinician that would refer the patient to a neuro-psych doctor. The latter also would not diagnose but would clinically indicate "probable" dementia as well as possibility of the type. Note the specialist appointment would be extended in length.

Broadway

Thank you everyone!  I gave a letter to the doctor ahead of the appointment via his nurse, as you suggested, listing 3 specific memory incidents as well as LO anxieties regarding the doctor himself.  It worked wonders, I think.  Doctor was exceedingly kind, thorough, spent over an hour.  MMCE score was 21/30.  He prescribed blood tests for B12 and other reasons, and an MRI. Also set up a follow up appointment.  My LO was so relieved and happy that the doctor was “nice to me,” that the diagnosis itself was a minor detail.  I was relieved that this first step went well, and I now trust that the doctor will follow through.  Meanwhile, yes, I’ll get a copy of the consent form suggested above to augment the verbal consent form we already have in place.  Whew.  The journey now begins in earnest…teaching how to use a pill box is next!

mommyandme (m&m)

Broadway, so glad things went well thus far!  Keep in touch.