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Retina Specialist Visits

Tell us about your most recent visit to the eye doctor.

https://maculardegeneration.net/living/doctor-patient-tango

  1. my most recent to my eye specialist was quite disappointing. She was running very late, which I understand and don't mind, as long as she gives me sufficient time when she gets to me. Unfortunately she spent so much time apologising for being late, that it took away from my appointment time. I had no change on my scans, and that's what really matters, but I had questions to ask (not too many!) and we didn't get to most of them. When she stood up, I knew that was the end of the appointment and I felt a bit let down. Perhaps I expected too much from her; I'm not really sure. Wendy, Advocate.

    1. I can definitely agree that when a doctor runs late and doesn't really take the time to slow down and listen to you, it can result in you feeling disappointed and depleted. This happens so often! I really hope that your next appointment runs on time and that she is able to value your time as much as she values yours. Thanks for sharing this experience with us. Best, Abby (Team member).

  2. Hey Brown Eyed Girl, Keep in mind that your doc is very well paid for his time, but with your money. You have paid for a specific amount of time and maybe you wont need all of it, but ask the doc if you could ask questions in the time allotted for your appointment. If the answers can be found online, don't waste her time...she has probably answered that question hundreds of times...but it is the first time for you, and you paid to get it answered

    1. what is chronic dry eye condition? How did you learn about that?

    2. my optometrist diagnosed the chronic dry eyes. The meibomian glands are clogged. The oils they secrete help keep the tear layer intact. I think cataract surgery made it worse. I have to use drops several times daily. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader


  3. Like every 6-7 weeks, after jumping through all the hoops to get to the doctor; he pops in, gives the injection and leaves. Assembly line medicine. When pictures are taken, he glances at screen, says "looks good" - and chuckles at my response, "Now if only I could see." as he walks out the door.

    1. as long as they keep me seeing I really don't care about their being in a rush or their bedside manner. Just say'n

    2. I absolutely agree that their knowledge and skill in keeping us seeing, is the number one thing! If they also have time to answer questions, that is even better. Best wishes, Wendy, Advocate.

  4. Thanks, Abby. Do other folks get counseling as part of AMD care or am I asking too much?
    There is nowhere else to go for treatment and only two Specialists in this clinic.

    1. I don't think that's asking for too much at all! A macular degeneration diagnosis can feel really scary and I commend you for being here and reaching out for help. If you haven't done so already, maybe you can try speaking with one of the specialists and ask them if they are aware of any support groups in your area? We also have a great list of general resources which could be a good place to start: https://maculardegeneration.net/mental-health/coping-general-resources, and https://maculardegeneration.net/mental-health/faq. Please know that you have come to the right place to ask all the questions about macular degeneration and we will do the best we can in supporting you to our capacity. Please continue to let us know how you feel and any resources that you're able to get in contact with. Wishing you all the best, Abby (Team Member).

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