Changing EP

if you want to change, go ahead and change!

by Tracey_E - 2022-05-27 11:39:07

It's not a big deal to change. You'll want to be sure the new ep works with your brand, but most docs work with all of them so that's rarely a problem. The doctor's office will need to contact the device manufacturer so that the reports go to the new office.

I would suggest going for a consult first to make sure the new ep is a good fit. An ep can be a fabulous doctor but a jerk personality-wise. Some offices are easier to deal with than others. 

When I changed, I asked about their opinions on working out and generally being active. Some doctors are more conservative than others. I wanted one that would not give me a hard time about the things I love to do. The one I settled on not only is ok with it, but actively supports me being active and living my life. Another consideration for me, because my device is 25+ years old, was someone who does a lot of extractions. I know it's in my future, so I wanted to choose a doctor who wouldn't have to refer me out. 

New EP

by AgentX86 - 2022-05-27 14:09:01

If you don't like your doctor or the facilities at hand, change!  They don't own you and there is no reason to be shy about doing so.  There may be a long wait to get an appointment with a new EP.  Sometimes they don't make it easy.

Your point about hardware is a good one.  There are tools the PM clinic needs to do their part of the job.  If they don't have the tools or the training that goes with them, there may be a reluctance to take you on as a patient. Some doctors/hospitals use a single supplier for cost and support reasons.

changing your EP

by new to pace.... - 2022-05-27 14:47:46

I have not seen or spoken with my EP since the implant in Aug.2019.  the cardiologist am scheduled  to see once a year.  Although when i seem to have a problem can get in to see her.. then the once a year gets moved again. 

Had another cardiologist and changed to this one.

Also have an in office pacemaker check on the anniversary of the implant.  Do have a bedsite remote transmitter, which at this moment is time is done nightly and quartely.  Was told this is so they can get paid.  But someone forgot to tell the billing person.  They have not been paid since i moved to this office.

new to pace

changing EPs

by islandgirl - 2022-05-30 20:09:26

I went through a traumatic experience changing EPs in late February, having been going to the same one for 23+ years.  After my new device was put in, I decided to make the change.  It's been a difficult transition, switched to a university EP ahd heart failure dr.  I have more confidence in the hospital and feel as though the new EP and team is more up to date.  I have to develop a relationship with the new team, which seems difficult as they seem hurried.  

Tracy is correct......I want somebody I can respect and respects my needs, answers my questions, builds my confidence, and the staff has warned me he doesn't have much of a personality.  I felt confident I would get the proper care with my former EP, especially in the hospital where he practiced.  

My previous 2 devices were Medtronic, and now I have a St Jude/Abbott.  The hospital that put in the last device only had a contract with St Jude/Abbott.  I wish I would have done my homework, as now I have leads from 2 different manufacturer's which creates limited facilities and risk for MRIs and also I am PM dependent on all 3 of my leads (I have an ICD).  Luckily my new EP/university has contracts with both Medtronic and St Jude/Abbot, but they are capable of interrogating any.  I have been trying to get my new device fine tuned (it's been difficult) and last week the St Jude/Abbot rep cam in to try and fine tune it.  

I had to call St Jude/Abbot myself to change EPs, and the new EP's office had to also get the ball moving.  

Distance is a problem for me...over 2 hrs away now as opposed to 1 1/2 hrs, without traffic.  

Good luck and as a freind told me, be persistent to get your device fine tuned to your liking.