Has anyone had to suddenly get a new doctor because the one they had retired?

I just found out that my doctor has offically retired. I was told last month that my doctor may be retired before my next appointment in Feb. of next year. Well, the retirement took place sooner than expected. Now I'm without a doctor (for my depression, post-traumatic stress = PTSD and anxiety). The worst part is that one of the two medicines I take for it most doctors won't write for. Also, the type of health insurance I have most doctors don't take. I feel like I'm back at square one. I'm disappointed because I had a doctor who knew me. Now I have to start over again. I've had the doctor since March 2006. I've been told I can come by, sign a consent form and pick up my medical records. The office is closed, but will be available for patients to pick up their medical records until Dec. 31st.

My last doctor gave up her practice, so I had to find a new doctor. Thankfully my new insurance had just kicked in, and I was able to find a new doctor in the office I'd gone to before.

You know it's a funny thing.

For years I would have different cardiologists but only one ear doctor.

Then like 7 years ago my ear doctor retired so I've had two or three after but now I have one doctor for the last two years.

I have the same cardiologist after my ear doctor retired.

But I've always had the same primary care doctor.

I definately can understand what you're going through Family Ties Forever!. Last year my doctor (the best doctor I ever had) committed suicide. I was devastated not only because I lost a doctor, but because I lost a friend and he lost his life. I heard it had something to do with his marriage, but I don't know really what happened. I have a new doctor now and she's nice, but not as thorough as he was. Best wishes and good vibes to you!

I just lost my therapist to retirement. My psych is a turd, and I'm not too interested at the moment in finding a new therapist, so I have to just not go crazy I guess. At least the med source didn't dry up.

I understand the feeling all too well, Jenny. My husband retired in April, so we got different health insurance. I ended up losing my primary care doctor. It was awful as I had her for almost 13 years. I like my new doctor, but it's just not the same. My new doctor met me as a sick person, whereas my former doctor met me as a young, vibrant working woman. For some reason that matters to me. I used to joke that we were going to grow old together, but that was not to be.

I wish you luck, Jenny. The doctor and patient relationship is an important one. It's awful losing the history you have with your doctor; and when it comes to medications, the trust you've built. My former doctor used to mail me prescriptions, while the new doctor makes me pick them up at the office, things like that.

yes I had to get a New Doctor when mines Retired but my New Doctor is really nice my new Doctor let's me call him Jason.

Thanks for responding. :) I'm sorry to hear other people have lost doctors too due to retirement and other reasons.

That sounds very frustrating having to lose your doctor after 13 years Janice. It's a shame that your new doctor won't send you your medicine through the mail. That would make it easier for you.

Sure, back in the 60's your reg. dr took care of yu and delivered your babies, etc. when the old dr sold the practice to a new dr .. who, IMO, didn't take as good care of us. He had no history with us, I guess that's why.