CVD
Hi,my name is Linda. No Dr.ever told me that I had hard failure,PH or recently early kidney disease. I found our reading my patient portal. Heart failure and PH was diagnosed in 2020..unknowingly to me and heart failure 2018. It started with SVT,then it turned into A-fib,then cardiomahley and on. I'm on diuretics, blood pressure meds.Amiodarone,Cymbalta, and others. I also been on a low sodium,low cholesterol, and low fat diet and I've incorporated The Mediterranean Diet into it. I've lost 54 lbs.so far.I've gone through 3 cardiologist and now on my 4th. Finding out I have PH I got a pulmonologist who I can't see until March. Now I need to find a nephrologist for my kidney disease. I need both hips and knees replaced and cataracts removed. I feel like I'm not getting the care I need. Do you feel that I need an advocate. I'm 71 yrs.old and live alone. I'm a widow also. I have no help. My relative live in several states. My younger brother is deceasd.. My mother also and my father is 92 living in a mall apt.in Utah.
Ombudsman is a great idea, or looking for your area Agency on the Agency. I have United Healthcare (medicare advantage program) and am fortunate as they have a terrific advocacy program- who have helped me obtain the responses needed from medical provider. Good Luck!...... (these forums offer a good deal of information too)
Hi Linda,
It is scary to learn of your diagnosis through your patient portal. And it's also not easy to be your own advocate while navigating all the symptoms that come with cardiovascular disease, or any chronic illness. And you have your share of them. Yet, it is so important that your team of doctors can communicate with you and each other to provide the care you need. You might want to check to see if your state has a senior citizens office that offers an ombudsman service. Your doctor or hospital may also have a social worker who can help set you up with a professional advocate. Your insurance company might also have a similar resource. I wish you all the best. Kathy (Team member)
