Is your doctor cutting back on "unnecessary" testing

[debodun]

When I went for my annual exam last week, the doctor didn't do an occult blood test or a urine analysis like usual. When I asked about it, she said that unless you have a specific complaint regarding these issues, they don't test those anymore. My feeling is that even if a patient isn't bothered with these conditions, they should be tested because it could reveal something not apparent. My exams end up like Medicare "wellness" visits - just a verbal interview.

 

[Pepper]

Could the reason have something to do w/money? Like the doc isn't paid enough or not at all? When I read my Medicare reports, seems doc asks a lot more than Medicare will pay, if anything.

 

[Lady]

Yes my yearly check up didnt happen this year , bloods and urine , Im on repeat Prescription and on one yearly they found my kidney was working proper on another I had High potassium level , so for that they changed one of my BP tablets .
So im at a loss as to why they not doing a check up .

 

[Jules]

Deb, can you offer to pay for it yourself?

 

[Raddragn]

Some of these tests you can do for yourself - the means to do so can be found online. I have been testing my urine and cholesterol for years. My Doctor stopped doing the cholesterol tests several years ago. Some tests you can do at home and others you send samples away - like the test for colon cancer.

 

[Judycat]

Tell them you use an opiate. They will take urine, blood, and test for anything else you may complain about.

 

[DaveA]

Not here. Had the same physical I've had for years, including the lab visit the day before my regular appointment. I have no complaints.

 

[Remy]

Last time I was in, which isn't often but probably about a year ago, they did do a UA. Perhaps if you really want one, next time complain of a little symptoms.

 

[debodun]

That's what happaned to my dad. He was losing weight and my mom took him to the doctor. The doc asked how he was feeling and my dad said say, "Fine," and was sent home without further tests. Six months later he passed from metastasized renal sarcoma.

 

[Remy]

That's what happaned to my dad. He was losing weight and my mom took him to the doctor. The doc asked how he was feeling and my dad said say, "Fine," and was sent home without further tests. Six months later he passed from metastasized renal sarcoma.

I'm so sorry. That is horrible. Unexplained weight loss should always be investigated further.

 

[debodun]

HMO....