looking for an re

AmyLynn156 · 02-18-2003, 11:52 PM

I live in Western NY on the border of PA. I am thinking that I should go to an RE instead of just a gyno. Does anyone have an opinion on this? Also does anyone know any reputable REs in this area?

Maureen77 · 02-19-2003, 02:18 AM

Have you checked the "Find a Doctor!" link at the top of the page?

I think an endo would be best, but a good GYN should also know the facts. I think it's most important to find a dr. willing to work with you until you come to a satisfactory dx and treatment protocol.

Have you seen the Newbie Starter Kit for information to arm yourself with?

I would go to the biggest teaching hospital you can find that is up on the latest research. Bite the bullet and travel a long distance if you have to. Sometimes they have websites with the studies their doctors do or PCOS information, then you know you've found a good one.

I wish you the very best of luck, do your reading and believe in yourself and your instincts!

AmyLynn156 · 02-19-2003, 06:17 PM

Thank you for the response and yes I went to the Find A Doctor section...I started there and the only docs anywhere near me are in NYC...that is about 8 hours from me! UGH!!

I will keep looking though...believe that!

AmyLynn156 · 02-21-2003, 03:39 PM

I think I found a Doctor! I am waiting to hear when my appointment will be. I am trying to get in with a Dr. Austin at the Cleveland Clinic. It is about 2 1/2 hours from my house but will definitely be worth it if she helps us bring home a little bundle sooner than later! My DH is very enthusiastic about seeing her to help us...that helps so much since I do not think I would drive there myself. Here's hoping....

kimmikat · 03-12-2003, 08:21 PM

This may be a little late, but I just read your post about finding a RE at Cleveland Clinic. Just wanted to give you some additional info, if the Cleveland Clinic is actually in Cleveland, OH. I actually see an RE at the University Hospitals (part of Case Western Reserve). He's the Chief of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at University MacDonald Women's Hospital. It is actually about a mile down the road from Cleveland Clinic.

He is listed on the PCOS website, that's how I found him. His office also houses the lab for the blood work & a nutrionist and ....ok, I'm gushing here, but I have never been more impressed with a Doctor's office. All of the Doctors in the practise are great and very well informed. This was the most complete process that I have been through. If you are interested in checking it out, the website is www.uhhs.com/fertility. I was also able to get an appointment within a week......something that I was not able to do when I tried to see someone at the Clinic.
If you have any other questions, just ask.... I'll check back.

kimmikat · 03-12-2003, 08:31 PM

Sorry! Just realized I didn't mention the RE's name. Dr Loret De Mola......yes, all of that is considered his 'last' name. He is also the Director of the In Vitro Program.

AmyLynn156 · 03-12-2003, 09:52 PM

Thank you Kim for suggesting this. I have an appointment scheduled with Dr. Austin at the Beachwood satellite of Cleveland Clinic for Friday 3/14/03. Did you see anyone at the clinic or just tried to make an appointment? What should I expect at the first visit? Thank you so much!

kimmikat · 03-12-2003, 10:08 PM

Hi!
No I was never able to see anyone at the Clinic, although I have heard great things (nothing specific to PCOS though). I had tried for several months to see a specific Endo that was recommended, but there was a six month wait....eeks! I found my current RE on the PCOS website and out of frustration, I called to see how soon someone could see me. I nearly fainted when they told me I could have an appointment with the head of the dept within a week.

In my case, the doctor & I went into his office for a history first. It really helped me to have a typed list of my history & symptoms. But, he had his own 'checklist' that we went through, very thoroughly. I was weighed, measured (I hate that

) and was also given a intra-vaginal ultra-sound to determine if any cysts were present. He told me that he suspected PCOS and probably hyperinsulinimia (history of diabetes and my symptoms), made an appointment w/his nutrionist, scheduled blood tests and went over possible treatments (depending on outcome of tests). Now, at this time my treatment does not really include any fertility issues as I am not ttc. I want to, but I guess I need a man in my life for that. And, as no one has volunteered........

I would assume that because of your distance that many of the 'extra stuff' like blood tests, etc. if not done that same day, could be done closer to home. It is my understanding that the Clinic works really well with people that live at a distance.
The clinic did a great job for an Uncle's liver transplant and my Daddy is actually having final testing tomorrow to be put on the list for a pancreas transplant (he's had type 1 diabetes for many years).
Beachwood is a very nice area.

Best wishes! And if you need anymore info on the area, let me know.

AmyLynn156 · 03-13-2003, 08:06 AM

Thank you soo much for your response! You have no idea how much better I feel now.
I know you will find someone to volunteer to help you ttc....I never thought it would happen and here I am now!!!
I also have heard wonderful things about Cleveland Clinic. My brother had shoulder surgery there and ever since then my dad has referred everyone there! You have to understand we really do not trust the drs here so my dad was so excited to hear that I listened and am going to cleveland clinic!!!
I am actually hoping this is a very in depth visit because up until now I have not had a very in depth one... my current Dr. just runs a lot of lab work! I want to be a little more agressive!
I will be thinking of your family and hoping the transplant goes well.
I will let you know how the visit goes...probably Monday since we are going to see DH's father this weekend!

kimmikat · 03-16-2003, 02:51 PM

Excellent!
Looking forward to hearing how things went for you during your visit.

AmyLynn156 · 03-16-2003, 05:50 PM

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Austin. She spent close to 1 1/2 hours with us. She explained everything very well and then gave us the options. She put everything out in front of us and told us that it is totally up to us what we do since it is our family we are trying to start! I would definitely recommend her to anyone in the area of Cleveland. The staff was very nice also!