Ok so today was my appt. with the famous Dr. Podell. He has been on the radio, I believe on TV and is doing research and talking around the country on Fibro and CFS. My attorney recommended that I see him. After paying over $700.00 I was first interviewed today by his NP Bev, who was a total sweetheart. She asked me many questions and took notes. She took my BP (standing and sitting), and did a ventilation test (short panting breaths) for as long as you can and I failed it. She also did a mini mental exam which I passed.
Dr. Podell then came in and proceeded to ask me many questions and writing notes. Bev also filled him in about different areas. I was in the office for 2 1/2 hours.
He wrote me about 7 prescriptions, gave me a copy of his notes with recommendations, told me I had to walk everyday for as long as I can, gave me a hypoglycemic diet to follow, wants me to buy a meditation tape and do deep breathing exercises. He also gave me samples of Lunesta and a script. He gave me 5 other scripts for sleep meds in case the Lunesta does not work. He also wants me to start Wellbutrin. The last thing I did was a blood test where he checked for a whole list of things.
Was it worth the money? I think it could of been worth about 3-400.00 but over $700? No way....
He did recommend other testing but said that my insurance probably would not cover it and I could try to call them and ask. He also suggested other med which he said was very expensive and that prescription probably would not cover it. (again) In other words, if you don't have money, oh well you have to try what you can afford.
He wants to see me after 4 weeks at $200. I told them I would call to make appt and walked out. Ridiculous.
He gave me a month supply of the meds. I tried a Lunesta last night and I slept a little better but the aches are still there. Some of the meds he prescribed I refuse to take for example: Seroquel which is an anti-psychotic and you overheat on it. Naltrexone is used for people who have addictions to drugs and alcohol...that definitely is not me so I don't understand why he would prescribe this. Some of them make your liver enzymes elevate which he was aware of...yet he prescribed meds which do this (I had a problem with elevated liver enzymes last year).
There are other meds he mentioned that boast immune system, but again does your insurance cover it? If not, very expensive. If you don't have the money your screwed.
He also had a blood test ordered there at the office--6 vials. He told me that he would mail a copy to me..for what he charged he better mail me a copy!!!
So the bottom line is I'm taking Lunesta now at night and am starting Wellbutrin for depression. As far as the Fibro I have to walk every day...watch my nutrition...no MSG..no Aspartame. Buy meditation tape and do at least 3x a day.
I see an excellent pain management dr in Sparta nj. His name is Dr Agesen with premier health associates. He has been a god sent. Just a suggestion. He also takes most insurances and is part of a group of doctors that u can also see.
Thank you Crynsugar! I left a message for my primary about this medication..if he approves I will try it. He is concerned about my liver enzymes. I just started Wellbutrin XL today..I was so dizzy this AM, headache and stomach pain. I am hoping that the side effects will go away. Dr. Podell prescribed Wellbutrin for depression and SAD. I love the chart!!