What to look for in a GI Doc?

[EasterLily]

Hello everyone. I have an appointment with my GI on May 10. I was just wondering what I should be looking for in a good GI to help treat the gluten sensitivity. This way I can decide after the appointment if I want to continue seeing him or look elsewhere. I am already seriously considering changing my regular physician after 32 years. He joined a much larger organization and my quality of care has definitely changed. Especially since starting this diet.

Thank you.

[cyclinglady]

Since your first GI never tested you for celiac disease and might not have taken biopsies during your endoscopy,  I would suggest finding a GI who has diagnosed or works with celiac patients.  Often doctor directories list biographies on each physician.  Look for one who specializes  celiac disease.  Call and ask staff before wasting time and money in an appointment.  Consider asking a local celiac group for a reference.  

Good luck!  

[Scuff]

I haven't seen mine yet, but I got a recommendation from a friend who's son has celiac. When I called the large practice, the scheduler recommended seeing another dr who specializes in celiac. Perhaps ask around?

[Victoria1234]

2 hours ago, Scuff said:

I haven't seen mine yet, but I got a recommendation from a friend who's son has celiac. When I called the large practice, the scheduler recommended seeing another dr who specializes in celiac. Perhaps ask around?

Sorry, pls specify whether the scheduler was recommending to see someone inside the practice who is different from your original choice, or someone outside the practice?

if it's someone inside who was not recommended, ask your friend if your friend if th know anything about them.

did  you ask why you can't see your first choice?

[Scuff]

3 minutes ago, Victoria1234 said:

Sorry, pls specify whether the scheduler was recommending to see someone inside the practice who is different from your original choice, or someone outside the practice?

if it's someone inside who was not recommended, ask your friend if your friend if th know anything about them.

did  you ask why you can't see your first choice?

My friend's son sees a pediatric GI. She recommended a dr that others liked, but she doesn't have personal experience with him. When I called, the scheduler asked my reasons for the visit and I told her that I suspected celiacs. She recommended seeing another dr in the office that specialized in celiac. After a 2 week headache with getting the referral, I was very pleased to be listened to and felt she was very helpful. My friend says that U of M is great for celiac (and anothere thread here seems to agree.) I've yet to see her, though- appointment's the end of June. I'm hopeful. 

[Victoria1234]

Sounds great then!

by the way, are you still on gluten?

[Scuff]

Yes. Went back on it a few weeks ago. I did mess all that up, doing Whole30 for March and April. Thought it was my gallbladder or an ulcer. I am glad I get to keep my organs!   But, oops. I'll be on it 7 weeks by the time my appointment rolls around.