What do you think doc?

I really dislike having to go to any doctor. I am not afraid to go to a doctor, but I just hate the time it takes, and the cost involved. Before I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I went to several specialists trying to find out what was the matter with me. I went to three different doctors without getting a diagnosis. In fact, they said it was in my mind. I still don't understand how not being able to raise my arms above my head constitutes mental illness. This farce cost me a fortune! Finally, I changed General Practitioners and my new doctor found the problem in less than 30 minutes. This experience changed the way that I viewed those in the medical profession. Not just regular doctors, but dentists, optometrists, chiropractors and all of them. My old view was that the doctor was a highly trained professional that was dedicated to my well being. I was not to argue and be compliant. The new view I have is that doctors are trained professionals. Many are more concerned with their golf handicap than my well being, and I should look out for myself. This is not the norm, but it exists. When they don't have an answer, and they put it off on something else, I will challenge them. Like any professional does, they provide a service for hire. If I pay for this service, I want my money's worth. No service, no payment! I ask questions...lots of questions. I didn't go to medical school. I expect them to have the answers.

I went to an optometrist the other day and got my eyes checked. I think he did a very good job in the exam and answering all of my questions. I did not, however, get my glasses from him. The frames and glasses I would have selected would have come to over $250. I thought that was too much and that he would be angry with me, but he wasn't. In fact, he gave me advice about getting my new glasses at a lower cost. Since I am trying to save money right now, I took a chance and got my new glasses at one of the online providers. The prescription I had was for progressive lenses, so I was taking a chance on getting everything adjusted correctly. I selected what I wanted and typed in my prescription and I had them three weeks later. I am happy with this choice now. I have my glasses and can see what I am typing for a change. However, your mileage may vary, and I would be amiss at telling you this is the way to go for you. That is your decision to make! This doctor gave me some hope in trusting my well being to him. Perhaps I have been too hasty in my general assessment of them. Maybe I ask too many questions and am being way too paranoid. Naah! It is much more fun to go to the doctor when I think I am in control!