continuing my story…

So I read a bunch of books and websites. (I will continue to add my research here in upcoming posts) but with only a month to come to terms, I decided my best next step was to get a second opinion. Here in Canada, I can’t just call another ob/gyn and make an appointment. No, much like an HMO in the US, I needed to go back to my family doctor and request that all-important referral.

Not quite so easy. My doctor’s appointments are booked three months in advance. The only way to see him is to go to one of the walk-in sessions and to be one of the first 30 patients. I may have mentioned this before and commented on how much of a pain in the ass it is. This time I was determined. I set the alarm clock for 5 am and practically ran out the door before 5:30. I made sure I even had paper and pen (first person there seems to be in charge of pasting up the list.) I was there by 5:45 and at fist, I was elated. First one there! Yeah. I can see the doctor by about 9:30 and be home by 10 am. Once I got to the door though, my elation evaporated. There was a notice indicating the doctor would not be having walk-in hours that day. Dammit.

Back home, too annoyed to crawl back under the sheets, I paced and cursed under my breath for a bit until 9 am when the office would open. I called, went though the usual busy tones and fiddling around and finally got someone on the phone who said my doctor wasn’t there but another doctor was seeing patients. Swell. Back in the car. Back down the street. I finally got to see a doctor at about 1 pm. I requested my second opinion. I made sure to ask if I could see one outside of this hospital system if it meant I could shorten the waiting time. I specified I would go anywhere in GTA. Just get me an appointment with someone.

That was mid-September. As of today, I’m still waiting.

Is this normal???