doctor issue

     So I met with my Rheumatologist yesterday and found out that she is leaving at the end of February.  She is retiring because the medical practice she is working for is having money issues and is being taken over by another entity.  She does not want to work for this other entity, which I completely understand.  The problem is this other entity may not hire another Rheumatologist for this area, which would mean traveling 3-4 hours to see one!!  The highways in and out of this area can be treacherous in the winter.  To make a long story short, I am saddened by the state of medical practice in rural areas like mine.  They are having difficulty attracting doctors here, especially specialists.  I would love to know if any folks have names of Rheumatologists that are in the Redding or Santa Rosa area (California).  San Francisco would be a tad too far for me.  That would be very, very helpful.  The other community would be Medford, Oregon.  Thanks for any input.  Oh, and good news, we are back to lowering the Prednisone and seeing if I can manage on 8 mg. every other day.  Keep your fingers crossed!!!

Love,

Laura

Hi Barbara,

     Thanks for the reply.  And thanks for looking into the possibility of a Rheumatologist in Redding.  That would be very helpful.  I feel pretty good tonight, although I did feel the drop in the Prednisone.  Took some Tylenol Arthritis to help with the pain....helps a wee bit, but no where as well as the Pred.  Wish my body weren't do hooked on it :).

Love,

Laura