Managing a chronic condition while PCSing

[NomadicMama]

Hello ladies!  I'm hoping that somebody can point me in the right direction.  

We are returning the the States, from Germany, in about three months.  I am currently working with a German rheumatologist to determine what is going on with me.  I think it's likely rheumatoid arthritis, but autoimmune conditions can be tricky.  


Anyway, it can take time to booked into see a specialist like this and I do not want to wait any longer than absolutely necessary to see a rheumatologist  after our move.  Has anybody been able to book an appointment prior to changing your Tricare region?  

We we are likely returning to NoVA.  I've looked on line at Walter Reed's rheumatology page and they have a phone number listed.  I will call them later today to see what they suggest.

Any other ideas, suggestions or links?  Thanks!

[Dory1988]

I think that's a really good starting point. I know that here we can't schedule anything until you've been to admissions at this hospital and what not but maybe they have a way around that? It's worth a shot at least.

[meltoine]

When I was pregnant and moving they would not let me schedule an appointment with the OB until I changed my region :/

[NomadicMama]

Oct 30, 2014 6:58:42 GMT -5 meltoine said:

When I was pregnant and moving they would not let me schedule an appointment with the OB until I changed my region :/

This is my fear. I am really worried that I'm going to get stuck waiting months to be seen. The three months I've been experiencing these symptoms (plus the month I had shingles) is not something I want to repeat, especially since there will be a crap ton of stuff that needs to be done ASAP.

Military healthcare coverage may be comprehensive, but it may also put me into an early grave due to aggravation and frustration.

I'll keep y'all posted.

[audette]

Yikes. I'd be sure to get a full set of notes from the German rheumatologist, even if they're in German, I'm guessing some of the medical terms probably cross over. Hopefully.

And, getting a new referral from your PCM in Germany might help to get you into the queue for a specialist appointment after your move a bit faster.


Gonna agree on the healthcare - it's comprehensive, but damn is it a pain in the ass at times...