moved and looking for a new Dr.

I just moved from Oklahom to Charlotte, NC and have been very hesitant to deciding on a new Dr to manage my pacemaker. I am only 43 and have had my pacemaker for almost 2 years. I went in for an ablation and my AV node was inadvertently ablated requiring a pacemaker. Then my lung was punctured when they put in the pacemaker. 2 weeks later I developed pericarditis.

To make matters worse, my doctor wasn't really interested in helping me return to my active lifestyle after it was all said and done. I found a doctor in Oklahoma who finally helped me and now I have moved out of state. Can anyone recommend a good doctor to manage my pacemaker and actually have an interest in my overall well being??

Thanks

2 Comments

NC docs at ECU- greenville

by tlsh - 2008-06-10 11:06:22

Did your current doc help you locate a new doc? We too are moving to NC this month. We will be using a doc in Greenville NC. They are suppose to be "full service", but that may be primariy pediatrics. I am just finding more info about him. My son, the one paced, is 11 and has a Follow up appt tomorrow with his current EP because his current (third) pacemaker is having issues with capture. His last pacemaker placement was also pure hell at Children's Hospital in DC. We are debating changing to a transvenous instead of his epicardial system prior to moving in 2 short weeks......STRESS!!!!!!

Find a doc

by ElectricFrank - 2008-06-11 12:06:25

I would call a number of cardiologist offices and try to find one that uses the pacemaker manufacturers rep to do the checkups and programming. They tend to be more knowledgeable and caring. Another possibility is to call the support number for your pacemaker manufacturer and ask them for the names of docs who use their services. They ethically can't suggest this approach, but if you ask they can give you the info.
Finally, on your first appointment get off to a good start by asking for a printout of pre and post checkup settings.

good luck,
frank

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Member Quotes

My eight year old son had a pacemaker since he was 6 months old. He does very well, plays soccer, baseball, and rides his bike. I am so glad he is not ashamed of his pacemaker. He will proudly show his "battery" to anyone.