Well, damn. My APN retired so I have to meet with her replacement, who is an MD

[Siwsan]

I've got accustomed to communicating with this particular APN. For the most part she listened to me. I have EXTREME white coat issues so every visit is a real stressor, no matter what it's for. I've had some REALLY BAD experiences with doctors, both personal and in my family.

This is just a follow up to blood tests taken during my annual visit so hopefully she will be OK with a 'get to know each other' visit so I can decide if I'm comfortable with her.

She's young. About 10 years of experience. Went to U of M Medical School. Looks to be relocating. So, we'll see.

[Walleye]

1. Good luck. I got the white coat syndrome too

[3catwoman3]

2. This relatively recently retired APN very much appreciates hearing...

...that you valued your nurse practitioner.

Too many people still think APNs are something "new," and are afraid to trust us. Pediatric nurse practitioners first appeared on the scene in 1965, so almost 60 years ago.

Nurses have been administering anesthesia since the Civil War.

I hope you can find a successor you are comfortable with.

[Siwsan]

5. She was great. Easy to talk to but also non nonsense

I was hoping I'd be reassigned to another APN but it doesn't look like this clinic has any more.

[ShazzieB]

11. My husband and I both greatly value our APN, too!

We've been seeing her for over 20 years now. My husband also sees the physician she works with, because he has more complicated health issues than I do, but we both agree that she is great!

Last time I saw her, I found out that she is now a DPN*, which I had not even heard of before. I feel very fortunate to call her my primary health care provider.

*https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_of_Nursing_Practice

[Rebl2]

3. I have to see

my nephrologist once a year and much prefer her nurse practitioner. I have had white coat issues since my 40’s. Started because my blood pressure started going up. It will be fine at home and be high at the doctors office. I am in my sixties and have found the younger doctors, for the most part, have been easy to get along with, kind and listen to my concerns.

[ggma]

4. I have my issues as well,

with doctors at the VA. They are a large part of my PTSD. So - I feel you, friend.

gg

[Siwsan]

6. My anxiety ramped up considerably because of the treatment and attitude at got while in the Navy

They had me on a medication that triggered anorexia and I lost about 30 lbs that I really couldn't spare. And it did nothing for my blood pressure. When the corpsman took it it was fine. When the doctor took it, it skyrocketed. They were taking blood every two weeks. They just wouldn't listen to me about the really bad situation that was driving a part of my anxiety. You probably guessed it was rampant sexual harassment.

I'm just one of those people who has had really bad luck with the medical profession. It's hard for me to trust them.

[ggma]

7. Goodness!

Are we related??

Harassed while in and after I got out; took me many years to find my awesome female and minority doctor. Really awesome. Was with her almost 20years. Had to give her up when I retired. Couldn't afford the copays.

Telemedicine has saved me a lot of anxiety. That an option for you?

gg

[Siwsan]

8. I'm going to look in to that.

I think they offer tele visits at this clinic.

[ggma]

9. Fingers crossed. Hope you can!

And - Hug your fur baby for me. Doesn't matter which one!

🐈
gg

[Siwsan]

10. I was just thinking about pulling out the sofa bed and stretching out to see if Carys will cuddle

She cuddles at night but I'm wondering if it's the time of day or the big bed that eases her nervousness.

I could use a nap, anyway. And I KNOW the boys would jump at the chance for a family snuggle puddle.