Ever wait so long for a CT scan?

musiclover
musiclover Member Posts: 242
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
My friend Mark had his rectal surgery on Feb. 2nd. They have finally scheduled a follow up CT scan for him for March 28th! That will be over two months when they finally get the results. They had one scheduled already (with much prodding from me) and cancelled it at the last minute due to an emergency. I personally think Mark's situation is an emergency knowing the surgeon confirmed that a nodule found on his liver during the surgery is cancer. They've made plans to get him on a three chemo drug combo in a clinical trial (w/Avastin). Still no CT scan to show if there is more than one spot!! Mark is in L.A. and without health insurance, he is at the mercy of the County Hospital. I'm making arrangements for him to fly to Portland to get a scan (an appointment he can get today if he wants, i.e. NO wait!) and to see Dr. Paul Hansen. Mike on this board was treated by Dr. Hansen and I've read good things about him. Has anyone had to wait so long for a scan?? I am beside myself with worry wondering if the cancer has spread and anticipating Mark's further care with this scary hospital.

Comments

  • KathiM
    KathiM Member Posts: 8,028 Member
    #2
    MARCH???? That's rediculous! Which county hospital? Sometimes, you can contact the financial department and set up a by-proceedure payment deal that would get it done quicker. Can he pay anything? Sure less expensive (maybe) than flying. Also,have him contact ACS (1800 number) and see if they can advocate a little, maybe even help. Since hes self pay.
    Wishes for you both.
    Kathi
  • Betsydoglover
    Betsydoglover Member Posts: 1,248 Member
    #3
    Clearly this is "county hospital" medicine. I had a CT a few days after diagnosis and have had 4 PET/CT's since. Only takes a few days to schedule them.

    Kathi's suggestions sound good.

    Wishing you and Mark better luck with the medical care system.

    Betsy
  • HowardJ
    HowardJ Member Posts: 474
    #4
    Way too long for a CT. They should be able to schedule these fairly quickly. I understand your frustration.

    Howard
  • aussiecrawl
    aussiecrawl Member Posts: 15
    #5
    No way.... that is way too long to wait for a follow up scan
  • jenalynet
    jenalynet Member Posts: 361 Member
    #6
    That is a long wait..my doctors usually call while I am in the office and the appointment is made in a few days. I am in Oregon and I hear Dr. Hansen is a good liver doctor. I wish your friend could get his scan sooner..Waiting that long isn't right.. Audrey
  • foxy
    foxy Member Posts: 188 Member
    #7
    Hi everyone, down under here in NZ we can wait months for a CAT Scan, my latest one was sent urgent and still I waited 3 weeks. Our little hospital up here does only ultra sounds so we have to travel 3 hours for a CAT Scan or MRI. But we do not have to pay for them--- maybe that is what makes the difference. Mine was clear and wonderful, I wish the same could be said for all of you, you are always in my prayers, Virginia.

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