quote:

First of all, the doctor was quite different from (IOW much better than!) the PA we saw at the GI specialist's office. He paid close attention to Mr. SK's medical history and took all those details into account in ways no one else has.

Yes, this is often the case. Substituting PA care is fine for many things, and it's certainly less expensive on the system, but your experience is the norm and not the exception. Physicians have a depth of knowledge that usually gives them a better perspective. And if you find one that actually reads the history (less often in these days of assembly line care) and listens to the patient you will often get insights that change the picture quite a bit.

SK, this doc sounds like a good find and a good fit. Hope Mr. SK is feeling better, and that this can be managed without surgery for now.

I agree with everything said here. I'm glad that the surgeon gave you some options and doesn't appear to be knife-happy. It's also great that he was patient and explained everything to you, so you'll be able to make an informed decision when/if the time comes.

I hope Mr. SK is doing better on his meds.