This morning I had a follow up appointment I made because my prescriptions (pain killers) were running low. I called about a month and a half ago and this was the first date I could get. Luckily I had just about enough pain killers left by my calculations. My pain is pretty much a constant these days. I do have some good days, but I average about 2 to 4 pain killers a day. I am continuing to see a massage therapist once a week and a chiropractor twice a month both using my civilian insurance.
My VA doctor is nice enough, but I felt rushed the entire time. I’m not sure if it’s because he just has too many patents to see, or maybe because it’s the day before Thanksgiving. He did put in a refill for my pain killers and after looking over my blood work from earlier this month and said I should be taking 2000 IU of vitamin D daily. I gave him my medical records from the army, which he asked me to bring in. After that he said I need to have my blood work done again in 6 months and see him again in a year. He then got up and opened the door for me to go. I was a little shocked, I guess I just expected a little more time to go over how I’m feeling, maybe see if there is something better than Vicodin for pain killers. I just expected a little more personalized attention after waiting so long for the appointment. Instead I felt like a number that just needed to be checked off. Prescribe more pain killers and move on to the next.
Luckily I work for a company that is very understanding. At least once a week I end up having to leave early because my head is killing me. A few times a week I’m able to take an hour or so and just lay down on the floor in a vacant office with the lights off & ice on my neck, which is usually enough to help me get through the day. I guess I was just hoping for the VA doctor to have something that would help me out a little more. Now it will be a year before I see him again. So I guess it’s the same ol’ same ol’ for another year. I’m thinking about using my civilian insurance or my Tri-Care insurance to see another doctor. Maybe I’ll get some better service and some more individualized care.
Showing posts with label medical. Show all posts
Showing posts with label medical. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Friday, September 20, 2013
Back to the Lab - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 104
Morning formation at 0630 and I go in ACUs. I have to head to the laboratory at the hospital at 0730 for blood work. I can't eat or drink anything until I get it done, so I wasn't going to do any PT and the lab opens at 0730. After formation I head to my car and wait…can't eat anything yet!
When I made it to the laboratory at the hospital, I checked in at the counter and then headed straight back to the technicians…quick service! They drew my blood and slapped a bandage on me, then I was good to go. I went back to my car and had breakfast. Breakfast these days is usually my coffee, yogurt and a cereal bar.
I hung out in my car listening to the radio and passing the time for a bit, then headed into the SFAC. I checked my army email and then printed out my GoArmyEd SOU (Statement of Understanding). This document has to be signed by me and my commander annually in order for me to continue to use tuition assistance to take college classes. I swing by my squad leader's desk and drop off the ACAP paperwork he requested along with my SOU so he can get the commander to sign it. I had to look over a counseling statement and sign it before leaving. Once that was done I headed home and did schoolwork…now the weekend can start!
When I made it to the laboratory at the hospital, I checked in at the counter and then headed straight back to the technicians…quick service! They drew my blood and slapped a bandage on me, then I was good to go. I went back to my car and had breakfast. Breakfast these days is usually my coffee, yogurt and a cereal bar.
I hung out in my car listening to the radio and passing the time for a bit, then headed into the SFAC. I checked my army email and then printed out my GoArmyEd SOU (Statement of Understanding). This document has to be signed by me and my commander annually in order for me to continue to use tuition assistance to take college classes. I swing by my squad leader's desk and drop off the ACAP paperwork he requested along with my SOU so he can get the commander to sign it. I had to look over a counseling statement and sign it before leaving. Once that was done I headed home and did schoolwork…now the weekend can start!
Monday, September 16, 2013
Gimme Some Traction - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 100
A random photo on the web that I found. This shows pretty much
what the cervical traction device looks like in physical therapy.
I headed to this mornings formation in ACUs. When all appointments form up at the back, I tell the NCO that I have an NCM appointment (technically I'm not lying, I just don't have an actual appointment at 0830 or before…mine is at 0900). I have no desire anymore to do anything at all with the army. The army PT is just a waste of time and the entire time I'm doing it, all I do is get pissed off. It's better for my well being to just get away as fast as possible.
I head to my car and eat breakfast then take a nap. At about 0830 I head into the SFAC to check my army email, but the room is full…I just head up to my NCM appointment a little early. The weekly NCM appointments are just to make sure everything is moving along smoothly and I don't need anything like refills or extra appointments made. I've mentioned before that the NCM is my central point of contact during the medboard process. The NCM makes all my appointments and lets me know if I have any new ones coming up. My NCM sees that I've been referred for physical therapy and makes a call while I'm there. They make an appointment for next week…I take off.
I head back downstairs and check my army email at the SFAC. A few minutes later I get a call from my NCM telling me that physical therapy called back and changed my appointment to today at 1345. This pisses me off quite a bit. I didn't pack a lunch, I had plans to head home eat lunch and do my schoolwork. I have to take the appointment, so I get to sit around and twiddle my freaking thumbs until 1345 this afternoon.
After my head cools a little I call my friend who happens to live about 10 minutes away from Ft. Lewis. We meet up for lunch and then hang out in a coffee shop for a while just chatting and passing the time. This worked out perfect, we got to catch up and I wasn't bored out of my mind while waiting for my newly scheduled appointment.
I headed to the physical therapy appointment with pretty low expectations. I had several weeks of physical therapy while in Germany and it didn't help much at all. When I arrived and was called back, my therapist asked a bunch of questions and to my surprise he has already done a check over my medical records and even took a look at my MRI. He performs a few tests such as having my arms in various positions and resisting as he pushes or pulls on them. There was one that he did twice which had both my elbows to my side with my arms out in front of me. He pushed down on my left arm and I resisted, but when he pushed on my right arm it went down fairly quickly. In my head I though he was just using more force. He asked if I was right handed (yes) and did the same test again with the same results.
He then has me lay down and place my neck in a device they use for something called "traction". As I lay down and place my head in a cradle, the therapist straps my head in place and tells me to relax. The device slowly starts to stretch my neck, slowly moving my head away from my shoulders. It didn't seem to stretch a lot, but it was definitely noticeable. After a few minutes he unstraps my head and has me stand up. We then perform the same test with my right arm, this time I am able to resist his push downwards. This was a total surprise to me, in fact it seemed like a magic trick. He assured me that he was using the same force every time he tried to push my arm down. He said it seems there is some compression in my neck, and this traction device will help relieve the compression. This is the first physical evidence I've seen involving my pain in neck and head. Usually all I can do is describe the pain all the time, but now I see that it's actually affecting me physically as well.
The therapist then puts me on a schedule for traction twice a week for 3 weeks. He says if it helps with the pain as well, he will recommend a portable unit for me to use. I actually feel optimistic again…maybe I can do something to actually reduce the pain I'm feeling on a daily basis. When I go up to the front desk to schedule the remaining appointments I find out I can only do it on Tuesdays and Thursdays…looks like I have to change the days I'm doing the internship, at least temporarily.
I head home excited with the news and the possibilities. I labor through my schoolwork which is pretty tough. The class I'm taking is business law. All the reading is pretty dry and I have no real interest in the class other than just getting through it. Every day with this class is going to be tough just to get through!
On a side note I see that I've now been at Ft. Lewis for 100 days now. I've done everything I can do, now it's just a waiting game to see how long it will take to get my percentage results from the VA. On one hand I want to get them and get out as soon as possible, but on the other hand I'd like to finish school before I get out. I guess we'll see which comes first.
Friday, September 13, 2013
PHA - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 97
A photo of "The Medical Mall" inside Madigan hospital.
This is where a lot of the specialty clinics are as well as the pharmacy.
This morning I headed to morning formation in my ACUs, I have a PHA appointment (basically my yearly physical). After formation I head to my car and fall asleep within seconds, for some reason I'm extremely tired this morning. Once I woke up, I took my time eating breakfast in my car and then headed into the hospital for my appointment. On the way in, I check my calendar on my phone and realize my appointment is at 0800…the entire morning I had it in my head that it was at 0830. I quickly walk to the family practice clinic at 0810 and they still decide to see me. This is a good thing because missing appointments is a pretty big deal while in WTB. In fact I could get UCMJ action taken against me for missing appointments.
After visiting with the doc I hear that I'm a bit overweight, I have pre-diabetes because my blood sugar is pretty high, and I also find out I have high cholesterol! My entire life I've been very active in sports and have always considered myself pretty healthy, now that I've hit 40 it seems not only is my body falling apart, but I'm having other health issues as well. The doc doesn't really tell me to do anything different except to eat more vegetables and work out more. He also put in a request to have my labs done again just to verify the results.
I then headed up to see my squad leader. He says they aren't tracking any of my ACAP appointments. So my squad leader hands me a paper that I have to take and get filled out by my ACAP counselor showing the dates and classes I've attended so far. When I headed down to see my ACAP counselor, there were already a number of people waiting…I guess multiple people are not being tracked correctly in the system. I take off…I'll get him to fill it all out later.
I head to my wife's work and meet her for lunch. She works with an old friend and previous co-worker of both of ours from a previous job at a newspaper. We all have lunch together at the buffet. So much for eating healthier…I guess I'll have to start that tomorrow!
After lunch, I headed home and did schoolwork.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Autopilot - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 95
Went to morning formation in ACUs and realized I forgot to shave this morning. I get up so early, I think I'm on autopilot half the time. I don't know how the heck I forgot to shave and I'm not a guy who can get away without shaving for a day…I get a 5 o'clock shadow at about 1300 or so. Luckily it's dark enough at the morning formation that nobody noticed..or at least didn't say anything. I think I'm slipping into civilian mode in my subconscious now.
I head back to my car after formation and eat breakfast, then take a nice nap. I head into the SFAC and check my army email (keeping my head down and not making eye contact with anyone). I then had to head up to my NCM appointment. Luckily my NCM is a civilian and doesn't really care if I shaved or not. We went over how I'm doing and how everything is going. (pretty much the same as last week and the week before…nothing has really changed)
After the appointment I headed straight to the commissary and picked up some disposable razors and shaving cream, then headed to the gym to actually shave. Now I feel that I can walk around in uniform comfortably without having to worry about getting yelled at. I then headed to the library and did my schoolwork until lunchtime when I headed to grab a bite to eat at Subway.
After lunch I headed to the neurology department for a follow up appointment. The doctor said my brain MRI came back with just some minor anomalies, but nothing substantial…so that is both a good and bad thing. Good that there is nothing wrong with my brain, but bad because they can't pinpoint why I get headaches so often. The working theory is that they are because of my degenerative disks in my neck that are causing nerve endings and tension in my head to cause mild to sever pain at times. All I know is that I live with headaches on an almost daily basis and I hate it. It really degrades my quality of life.
The neurologist upped the nightly dose of medicine I take and also gave me a couple new things to try when the pain gets pretty bad. One is an anti-inflammatory and the other is migraine medication…I don't think that will help much because I don't have symptoms of a migraine…at least not too often. The theory is that my tension headaches may trigger migraines. I'll give it a try…I'll try anything at this point. They are also going to recommend physical therapy, which I also don't have too much hope for. I tried that for months while in Germany with no positive results. I am also signed up for a headache class given by the neurology department. So all in all, this was a pretty disappointing visit...no silver bullet.
After that I headed home and rested for the remainder of the day.
I head back to my car after formation and eat breakfast, then take a nice nap. I head into the SFAC and check my army email (keeping my head down and not making eye contact with anyone). I then had to head up to my NCM appointment. Luckily my NCM is a civilian and doesn't really care if I shaved or not. We went over how I'm doing and how everything is going. (pretty much the same as last week and the week before…nothing has really changed)
After the appointment I headed straight to the commissary and picked up some disposable razors and shaving cream, then headed to the gym to actually shave. Now I feel that I can walk around in uniform comfortably without having to worry about getting yelled at. I then headed to the library and did my schoolwork until lunchtime when I headed to grab a bite to eat at Subway.
After lunch I headed to the neurology department for a follow up appointment. The doctor said my brain MRI came back with just some minor anomalies, but nothing substantial…so that is both a good and bad thing. Good that there is nothing wrong with my brain, but bad because they can't pinpoint why I get headaches so often. The working theory is that they are because of my degenerative disks in my neck that are causing nerve endings and tension in my head to cause mild to sever pain at times. All I know is that I live with headaches on an almost daily basis and I hate it. It really degrades my quality of life.
The neurologist upped the nightly dose of medicine I take and also gave me a couple new things to try when the pain gets pretty bad. One is an anti-inflammatory and the other is migraine medication…I don't think that will help much because I don't have symptoms of a migraine…at least not too often. The theory is that my tension headaches may trigger migraines. I'll give it a try…I'll try anything at this point. They are also going to recommend physical therapy, which I also don't have too much hope for. I tried that for months while in Germany with no positive results. I am also signed up for a headache class given by the neurology department. So all in all, this was a pretty disappointing visit...no silver bullet.
After that I headed home and rested for the remainder of the day.
Friday, September 6, 2013
They Took My Blood - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 90
Morning formation is at 0615 at the soldier field house gym for battalion PT…at least that's what I was told. When I arrived at the gym I only saw one other guy from my platoon there. It looked like an entire company was using the gym to take a PT test. As we stood there and realized nobody else seemed to be showing up, we head outside and see the battalion starting to form up across the parking lot in the tennis court…in the rain.
We both head over there and stand in the rain for a good 20 minutes until the battalion commander decides to come out and say "It's raining, let's not delay this…we'll head inside". By this point I'm already pissed because we were told the gym in the first place and we've now been standing in the rain for 20 minutes. I just head to my car and take off, I head to the hospital and then take a nap in the parking lot…I always make sure to get my time back that the army wastes.
I slept until 0830, then headed to the lab in the hospital and take a number. Shortly after I get called back and they draw some blood, then tell me I'm good to go. I head home and do schoolwork…today I took the final exam for my human resources class. The final exam requires a proxy, but interestingly enough they allow what is called a remote proxy. I had to download some software and then I was able to use their "remote proxy" via my webcam. Once I finished the final it was time to start the weekend!
We both head over there and stand in the rain for a good 20 minutes until the battalion commander decides to come out and say "It's raining, let's not delay this…we'll head inside". By this point I'm already pissed because we were told the gym in the first place and we've now been standing in the rain for 20 minutes. I just head to my car and take off, I head to the hospital and then take a nap in the parking lot…I always make sure to get my time back that the army wastes.
I slept until 0830, then headed to the lab in the hospital and take a number. Shortly after I get called back and they draw some blood, then tell me I'm good to go. I head home and do schoolwork…today I took the final exam for my human resources class. The final exam requires a proxy, but interestingly enough they allow what is called a remote proxy. I had to download some software and then I was able to use their "remote proxy" via my webcam. Once I finished the final it was time to start the weekend!
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
NCM, PCM & Pharmacy - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 88
This morning we had our formation with summer PTs and the jacket. While we were in formation it started to rain so we headed inside. Once inside we did a little stretching and then called it a day. I headed to my car and ate breakfast, then listened to the radio for a bit.
I headed to the SFAC when it opened up at 0730, I was able to check my army email and digitally sign some paperwork for the internship I'm about to start with the navy. I then took off to the gym to change into my ACUs. After that I headed back to the WTB and hung out in my car for a bit listening to the radio and playing on my iPhone.
I headed in for my weekly appointment with my NCM. Everything was the same old song and dance routine. I'm doing the same…no changes. I did let her know that I'm now due for my annual PHA (Periodic Health Assessment) also known as a normal physical in the civilian world. Everything that I need to do shows up on a system called MedPros, and I check that each time I check my army email at the SFAC. My NCM will make an appointment for me and let me know when it is.
I head out of there and straight to my PCM visit. My PCM visits have now grown to become monthly…well close to monthly because she's usually over booked, so they will now be about 5 to 6 weeks between visits. We went over all my issues and I had her issue me more Percocet. After that I headed down to the crazy mess that they call a pharmacy here. I waited almost 2 hours in the waiting room before getting called. I'm also active duty in uniform, so I get queued up faster than all the other suckers that have been there who knows how long! Luckily I had my iPhone and Plants Vs Zombies 2 to pass the time.
I headed home and did my schoolwork. I then get a text from my squad leader stating there is a 1400 formation today. I just ignore it, my MOU states that I'm in school and will not be at the end of day formations. I have better stuff to do.
I headed to the SFAC when it opened up at 0730, I was able to check my army email and digitally sign some paperwork for the internship I'm about to start with the navy. I then took off to the gym to change into my ACUs. After that I headed back to the WTB and hung out in my car for a bit listening to the radio and playing on my iPhone.
I headed in for my weekly appointment with my NCM. Everything was the same old song and dance routine. I'm doing the same…no changes. I did let her know that I'm now due for my annual PHA (Periodic Health Assessment) also known as a normal physical in the civilian world. Everything that I need to do shows up on a system called MedPros, and I check that each time I check my army email at the SFAC. My NCM will make an appointment for me and let me know when it is.
I head out of there and straight to my PCM visit. My PCM visits have now grown to become monthly…well close to monthly because she's usually over booked, so they will now be about 5 to 6 weeks between visits. We went over all my issues and I had her issue me more Percocet. After that I headed down to the crazy mess that they call a pharmacy here. I waited almost 2 hours in the waiting room before getting called. I'm also active duty in uniform, so I get queued up faster than all the other suckers that have been there who knows how long! Luckily I had my iPhone and Plants Vs Zombies 2 to pass the time.
I headed home and did my schoolwork. I then get a text from my squad leader stating there is a 1400 formation today. I just ignore it, my MOU states that I'm in school and will not be at the end of day formations. I have better stuff to do.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
PEBLO and the NARSUM - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 73
This morning we had our PT formation at the gym. Right after the formation, I just headed to my car instead of to the gym. I then took a nap, if the army is going to waste my time with stuff like staff duty…I'll find ways to get it back. I headed to a 0900 appointment with my nurse case manager. I waited in the lobby until 0945. During that time I called her twice, but she never came out. We can get in some major trouble if we miss appointments, but I guess the opposite isn't true. The last message I left let my nurse case manager know that I was leaving for another appointment I had with my PEBLO.
I headed to meet up with my PEBLO. She said my NARSUM (Narrative Summary) has been completed and is ready for me to look over. I can choose to have legal go over it as well, but I have to return in 5 business days in order to sign it. So I take off and look it over in my car. The NARSUM is basically a summary of all my issues with the reports from my visits to the VA doctors as well as a history of all my medications that I've been taking. All my issues are pretty straight forward. My neck has degenerative disk disease, I get frequent headaches, my knee is in constant pain, I've had hearing loss, and I have persistent tinnitus (ringing in my ears).
I head to the SFAC to check my army email. While in there my nurse case manager gives me a call and asks if I can meet with her now. I say sure and head up there since she's located in the same building as the SFAC. We go over how I'm doing…pretty much the same. I ask her to put in a request to refill my muscle relaxers and my intermediate pain medication (tramadol). Once I finished up with her, I headed home for the day and did my schoolwork.
I headed to meet up with my PEBLO. She said my NARSUM (Narrative Summary) has been completed and is ready for me to look over. I can choose to have legal go over it as well, but I have to return in 5 business days in order to sign it. So I take off and look it over in my car. The NARSUM is basically a summary of all my issues with the reports from my visits to the VA doctors as well as a history of all my medications that I've been taking. All my issues are pretty straight forward. My neck has degenerative disk disease, I get frequent headaches, my knee is in constant pain, I've had hearing loss, and I have persistent tinnitus (ringing in my ears).
I head to the SFAC to check my army email. While in there my nurse case manager gives me a call and asks if I can meet with her now. I say sure and head up there since she's located in the same building as the SFAC. We go over how I'm doing…pretty much the same. I ask her to put in a request to refill my muscle relaxers and my intermediate pain medication (tramadol). Once I finished up with her, I headed home for the day and did my schoolwork.
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Weekend Wrap-Up - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Days 42 - 43
Me doing some indoor skydiving
Usually the weekends are my own, but this one had another QTC appointment that I had to attend. Luckily the appointment was in Bremerton where I currently live. It was very close to the hospital, so I dropped off my son and wife at the hospital to visit my grandma who is still there. I then walked across the street to the QTC office and checked in. They grabbed a folder and promptly handed me a check. I was a little surprised by this, but I guess since I am stationed at Ft. Lewis and had to drive all the way to Bremerton for the appointment I got reimbursed. I'm not going to complain about getting an $18 check. (I didn't realize until I got home that they gave me a check with another person's name on it...not a big deal since it's only $18, but it did make me shake my head)
I then filled out a quick questionnaire and had my hearing tested. Ever since basic training I've had ringing in my ears. The earplugs they give you didn't really work very well in my ears. After basic I always use the foam earplugs that can squish and then fill up all the voids to really protect your ears, but the damage has already been done. The last time I had a hearing test before I left Germany, the tech said I've had a bit of hearing loss. I also have a constant high pitched ringing in my ears all the time (tinnitus). So I went through all the tests and the tech told me I do have hearing loss at the high ranges, so it may be difficult to hear women and children. I was sure to pass that along to my wife…I had to let her know that it's my ears, I'm not ignoring her…lol.
The rest of the day and weekend was spent giving my son his belated birthday present. I was unable to be with him for his 13th birthday, a big one! So we headed to lunch at a restaurant called "Claim Jumpers" (good food and a lot of it). After that we went to iFly Seattle, an indoor skydiving establishment. We suited up and after getting a few minutes of training, headed into basically a vertical wind tunnel one at a time along with an instructor. It was a pretty cool experience, and probably the closest I'll ever get to actual skydiving because of my neck issues. We then headed home and watched "Pacific Rim" at the local theatre. It was actually better than I expected…but I wasn't expecting much. I told my son he could choose any movie he wanted. The movie was a twist on the classic Godzilla movies, where big creatures come out of the water and attack cities. Only giant robots have a chance to beat them. It was full of non stop action for sure!
Friday, July 19, 2013
QTC - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 41
This morning for PT we gathered around in a circle with an NCO in the middle. The NCO basically just went around the circle asking people for exercises to do. We did push-ups, crunches, air squats and the like for a reasonably short time. Because everyone here is on profile it was just a given that if you can't do the current exercise, just do an alternate that you can do. We then walked around the WTB complex a few times and called it a day.
I headed straight to my car and took a much needed nap, then ate breakfast while listening to the radio while still in my car. Once finished I headed to the SFAC to do my morning army email check, then headed to the gym and changed into my civilian clothes. After that I headed to the library and proceeded to study. Now that I'm finally enrolled in a class I can pass the time constructively at least.
I headed to the SFAC for lunch and then printed off my LES, 30 days of bank transactions, and the 3 credit reports available from annualcreditreport.com. These were all needed for an upcoming ACAP class I have next week. I then headed to one of my QTC appointments located off post. The clinic was in Tacoma, actually on my way home to Bremerton. I arrived pretty early and spent some time on my laptop in my car in the parking lot. I had forgot how many interesting people there are in Tacoma…definitely not a place I would want to live…or work in the future. Finally I headed into my appointment. The QTC appointment is done for the VA by an independent doctor so they can get results from both the army doctors as well as civilian doctors to make their decision.
The appointment went over all of my claims except my hearing loss claim. The doctor measured my range of motion in my neck, knee, and left shoulder. They took X-rays of my left shoulder and knee. He also did some neurological tests on me, such as reaching my arms out and touching my nose with my eyes closed. Then came the strange part…I had to drop my pants and have the infamous "cough" test where he grabs my balls and tells me to cough. It got even worse after that…he had to "check my oil". The doctor had me lay sideways on the table and then proceeded to lube up his finger and stick it up my butt! Not a fun experience I have to say. I went in because I had headaches and the doctor sticks his finger up my butt…not exactly how I planned the visit to go. He gave me some paper towels to clean up all the lube and stepped out for a moment to give me a little privacy. Like he didn't just violate any privacy I had! I wiped it all up and tossed the used paper towels in the garbage. He came back in and went over a few more things before I was let go. I left feeling like I just took a huge dump…and felt that way for a couple hours. Hopefully he found everything he needed. I headed home and relaxed…hoping never to relive that experience for a long long while.
I headed straight to my car and took a much needed nap, then ate breakfast while listening to the radio while still in my car. Once finished I headed to the SFAC to do my morning army email check, then headed to the gym and changed into my civilian clothes. After that I headed to the library and proceeded to study. Now that I'm finally enrolled in a class I can pass the time constructively at least.
I headed to the SFAC for lunch and then printed off my LES, 30 days of bank transactions, and the 3 credit reports available from annualcreditreport.com. These were all needed for an upcoming ACAP class I have next week. I then headed to one of my QTC appointments located off post. The clinic was in Tacoma, actually on my way home to Bremerton. I arrived pretty early and spent some time on my laptop in my car in the parking lot. I had forgot how many interesting people there are in Tacoma…definitely not a place I would want to live…or work in the future. Finally I headed into my appointment. The QTC appointment is done for the VA by an independent doctor so they can get results from both the army doctors as well as civilian doctors to make their decision.
The appointment went over all of my claims except my hearing loss claim. The doctor measured my range of motion in my neck, knee, and left shoulder. They took X-rays of my left shoulder and knee. He also did some neurological tests on me, such as reaching my arms out and touching my nose with my eyes closed. Then came the strange part…I had to drop my pants and have the infamous "cough" test where he grabs my balls and tells me to cough. It got even worse after that…he had to "check my oil". The doctor had me lay sideways on the table and then proceeded to lube up his finger and stick it up my butt! Not a fun experience I have to say. I went in because I had headaches and the doctor sticks his finger up my butt…not exactly how I planned the visit to go. He gave me some paper towels to clean up all the lube and stepped out for a moment to give me a little privacy. Like he didn't just violate any privacy I had! I wiped it all up and tossed the used paper towels in the garbage. He came back in and went over a few more things before I was let go. I left feeling like I just took a huge dump…and felt that way for a couple hours. Hopefully he found everything he needed. I headed home and relaxed…hoping never to relive that experience for a long long while.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Neurology & Chipotle - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 37
Headed to morning formation in ACUs and then had breakfast in my car as usual. At 0900 I had a neurology appointment. I arrived and after filling out some paperwork, I hung out in the lobby until 0930 when I was finally called back. The appointment consisted mainly of bringing the neurologist up to speed with my history. He did a few tests and took down a lot of notes. He then left and came back with another neurologist and after asking me some more questions, they came up with a plan of action. I'm going to keep taking the nightly medication I'm currently taking, but up the dosage after two weeks. I'm also going to get an MRI of my head to rule some things out. Both of them think (as do I) that all the pain I've been having in my head are caused by the damaged area in my neck (degenerative disks). They have some plans to work on the headaches from that angle, and after talking with them I feel optimistic for the first time in a long time. I have started to think that I'll be living in a lot of pain for the rest of my life. I then started looking into what pain medications might do the trick and ease this pain, but if the doctors can eliminate the source of the pain that would be even better!
I then left and headed to the city of Kent, which is a Seattle suburb and also happens to be where my wife is working at the moment. The drive is about a half hour and we met for lunch. I then went in and met all her co-workers. I hung out there until about 1400 before heading back to Ft. Lewis. Once back I hung out in my car until about 1530, then headed to where our evening formation is located. I waited and waited, but nobody showed up. Evidently they either cancelled it, or changed the time. Either way my squad leader didn't bother to text or call me. I just left and headed home…what a waste of time.
I then left and headed to the city of Kent, which is a Seattle suburb and also happens to be where my wife is working at the moment. The drive is about a half hour and we met for lunch. I then went in and met all her co-workers. I hung out there until about 1400 before heading back to Ft. Lewis. Once back I hung out in my car until about 1530, then headed to where our evening formation is located. I waited and waited, but nobody showed up. Evidently they either cancelled it, or changed the time. Either way my squad leader didn't bother to text or call me. I just left and headed home…what a waste of time.
Friday, June 21, 2013
More SHARP - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 13
Saw this on the way home...a portable toilet!
We had our normal PT formation and right after accountability we were all told to head into the WTB multipurpose room for some SHARP training. Of course more training to "check the box" is exactly what the army needs to solve it's sexual harassment and assault problems. We started to watch a video, but it was streaming from YouTube and about 3 minutes into it, it froze. The cadre were unable to get it working again, so we went straight into questions and answers. After a couple of these I was able to get up and leave. Fortunately I came in my ACUs because I had an early appointment.
This appointment was to start the actual MedBoard process. So far I've just been seeing doctors and such to treat my current symptoms, but the MedBoard process to get me out of the army hasn't actually been started yet. This appointment was basically just going over some of my records and making sure everything such as my name and address were correct. He then scheduled me for a MedBoard briefing next Monday and an appointment with a MedBoard doctor next Wednesday.
I headed to the SFAC and used their computers to finish up my mandatory training and do a little web surfing. I then headed to my car to hang out, listen to music and play games on my iPhone. I did this until lunch time. I had lunch at the SFAC as usual and then headed out to what was supposed to be the end of day formation at noon, but only one other guy showed up. I guess we didn't get the message that there was no formation, so I took off and headed home for the weekend.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Mandatory Appointments - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 3
This morning I headed to the morning formation in ACUs. They do morning PT here, but anyone that has an appointment at 0830 of before comes in ACUs and then takes off after formation. I'm still figuring everything out, so my squad leader just told me to come in ACUs.
My first appointment was at 1030 which was with the social worker again. I had to fill out a lengthy sheet filled with various questions such as "Do I feel like harming myself or others". We took time to go over each of my answers. Yesterday's visit was very short, but today's was quite a bit longer and more in depth. After all was said and done, I am still considered mentally fine I guess…lol.
I then went to lunch back in our hotel room with my wife. I had another appointment with my primary care manager, which like my previous appointment was much more in depth. We went over all my issues and she did a couple basic checks on me as far as feeling my joints and listening to my breathing. The doctor also prescribed me some new medication after our talk. One was just a renewal of my muscle relaxers, the other is a pain reliever that also makes me drowsy…that will help me sleep at night, so no complaints with me. I also asked to try a stronger one called Tramadol. After speaking with a former co-worker that had a similar situation with neck pain and headaches, she said this was the only thing that helped her out. So the doctor gave me a small amount to try out. I'm willing to try about anything now to get rid of my pain.
I then had an appointment with the pharmacist who went over all the prescriptions I'm taking and she explained everything about them. The other pain reliever the doctor prescribed me to take nightly is called Amitriptyline. It is actually categorized as an antidepressant, but can be prescribed for pain. From what the pharmacist told me, it will build up over time and help with the pain in my nerve endings. The side affect is that it will make me drowsy, so I'll be taking it at night before bed. I've been having trouble sleeping, so this is a welcome side affect.
The pharmacy at Ft. Lewis is pretty crazy! The place is crowded with people in overflow seating outside of the pharmacy. A number is taken and when it is called you can stand in the line which has two people working just to make sure there are no issues with the line…like cutting or going before your number is called. I waited a little over an hour for my prescription.
I didn't get any of my actual in-processing done because of all my appointments. I'm also pretty frustrated over how busy they keep us when we first arrive. I need to find a place to live and only have this hotel for 10 days, after that I will not get reimbursed. They are giving me no time to get out and look for a place to live and it can get frustrating.
My first appointment was at 1030 which was with the social worker again. I had to fill out a lengthy sheet filled with various questions such as "Do I feel like harming myself or others". We took time to go over each of my answers. Yesterday's visit was very short, but today's was quite a bit longer and more in depth. After all was said and done, I am still considered mentally fine I guess…lol.
I then went to lunch back in our hotel room with my wife. I had another appointment with my primary care manager, which like my previous appointment was much more in depth. We went over all my issues and she did a couple basic checks on me as far as feeling my joints and listening to my breathing. The doctor also prescribed me some new medication after our talk. One was just a renewal of my muscle relaxers, the other is a pain reliever that also makes me drowsy…that will help me sleep at night, so no complaints with me. I also asked to try a stronger one called Tramadol. After speaking with a former co-worker that had a similar situation with neck pain and headaches, she said this was the only thing that helped her out. So the doctor gave me a small amount to try out. I'm willing to try about anything now to get rid of my pain.
I then had an appointment with the pharmacist who went over all the prescriptions I'm taking and she explained everything about them. The other pain reliever the doctor prescribed me to take nightly is called Amitriptyline. It is actually categorized as an antidepressant, but can be prescribed for pain. From what the pharmacist told me, it will build up over time and help with the pain in my nerve endings. The side affect is that it will make me drowsy, so I'll be taking it at night before bed. I've been having trouble sleeping, so this is a welcome side affect.
The pharmacy at Ft. Lewis is pretty crazy! The place is crowded with people in overflow seating outside of the pharmacy. A number is taken and when it is called you can stand in the line which has two people working just to make sure there are no issues with the line…like cutting or going before your number is called. I waited a little over an hour for my prescription.
I didn't get any of my actual in-processing done because of all my appointments. I'm also pretty frustrated over how busy they keep us when we first arrive. I need to find a place to live and only have this hotel for 10 days, after that I will not get reimbursed. They are giving me no time to get out and look for a place to live and it can get frustrating.
Monday, June 10, 2013
No Rest For The Weary - (MedBoard: Joint Base Lewis-McChord) Day 2
This morning I had a 0630 formation at the WTB (Warrior Transition Battalion) unit. Even though I just flew in from half way around the world and I'm still trying to adjust to a new time zone, there is no break at all. It wasn't just formation either, my day was busy from beginning to end. Right after formation an NCO took me to sick call to get seen by a doctor for an initial visit. There are a number of time sensitive things they have to take care of within the first day and this was number 1. The doctor asked some basic questions to see if I was a high risk factor for self harm. She then gave me some basic information and turned me loose.
I met with my NCO again and she drove me to Waller Hall which is where most of the major in-processing and out-processing is done for all soldiers except those in the WTB like me. I was shown a meeting room and told the finance brief will happen at 0900. It was kind of strange because there was a room full of people doing in-processing and I ended up just joining them for this financial piece. The brief covered our travel costs and I had to fill out some paperwork step by step as the briefer went over it. Once she was done everyone lined up and turned in their paperwork. There were a couple folks looking it all over and then stamped it and signed off on it. I asked if that was it as far as financing and the person who stamped my paperwork said "yup", so I left. I didn't care too much for just being dropped off with hardly any information, but I figured I would find my way through it all one way or another.
I then headed back to my hotel room for lunch with my wife. After that I headed back to the WTB unit and saw a social worker who also assessed my mental health situation. I guess there are a lot of folks coming into the WTB depressed and suicidal. Once the social worker saw that I was feeling fine and had no suicidal tendencies, she turned me loose. I then headed across the hall to see my NCM (Nurse Case Manager). I found out this person would be my single point of contact for almost everything. All appointments go through her and I will be checking in with her weekly. She gave me a list of appointments that she scheduled already for me. I was told who my squad leader was, this person will basically be my boss while I'm here. He gave me a bunch of in-processing paperwork to start on.
I found out that I'm assigned to HHC, which is basically only during the in-processing stage of my time here. Once I get through in-processing, I will be assigned to either Alpha, Bravo, or Charlie company here at the WTB. This means I'll be getting a new squad leader and everything shortly. I'm told in-processing lasts as long as a month.
I headed back to my room. I'm jet-lagged and very tired. I was in Germany yesterday and I've been going non-stop since I arrived here. I promptly passed out in our hotel bed.
I met with my NCO again and she drove me to Waller Hall which is where most of the major in-processing and out-processing is done for all soldiers except those in the WTB like me. I was shown a meeting room and told the finance brief will happen at 0900. It was kind of strange because there was a room full of people doing in-processing and I ended up just joining them for this financial piece. The brief covered our travel costs and I had to fill out some paperwork step by step as the briefer went over it. Once she was done everyone lined up and turned in their paperwork. There were a couple folks looking it all over and then stamped it and signed off on it. I asked if that was it as far as financing and the person who stamped my paperwork said "yup", so I left. I didn't care too much for just being dropped off with hardly any information, but I figured I would find my way through it all one way or another.
I then headed back to my hotel room for lunch with my wife. After that I headed back to the WTB unit and saw a social worker who also assessed my mental health situation. I guess there are a lot of folks coming into the WTB depressed and suicidal. Once the social worker saw that I was feeling fine and had no suicidal tendencies, she turned me loose. I then headed across the hall to see my NCM (Nurse Case Manager). I found out this person would be my single point of contact for almost everything. All appointments go through her and I will be checking in with her weekly. She gave me a list of appointments that she scheduled already for me. I was told who my squad leader was, this person will basically be my boss while I'm here. He gave me a bunch of in-processing paperwork to start on.
I found out that I'm assigned to HHC, which is basically only during the in-processing stage of my time here. Once I get through in-processing, I will be assigned to either Alpha, Bravo, or Charlie company here at the WTB. This means I'll be getting a new squad leader and everything shortly. I'm told in-processing lasts as long as a month.
I headed back to my room. I'm jet-lagged and very tired. I was in Germany yesterday and I've been going non-stop since I arrived here. I promptly passed out in our hotel bed.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Getting Records - (Germany) Day 469
This morning for PT we had PT at Campbell gym in civilian clothes. We all found out that tomorrow we have to be in formation at 0430 for an exercise…not so great news. Those not on profile headed for a run off post, while those of us on profile headed into the gym. I rode the stationary bike for some cardio and had a decent workout.
I headed into my office and checked my email, then did schoolwork until about 1100 when I headed out for lunch at home. After lunch I headed to the post office and then to the hospital to pick up my medical records. This is one of the steps that need to be done before you can clear. With this post closing they are getting ready to move all the records to Landstuhl, so it's a good idea to get them before. When I went in to receive them, the room was full of boxes and folders everywhere. They are right in the middle of preparing for the upcoming move. I was able to get mine after a few minutes of them searching to find it. Why they still keep physical records when everything is recorded into the computer system I have no idea.
I headed to my office and checked my email, surfed the web, and passed the time. Right before I was about to leave at 1400 I received an email from our CAM. I received my leave form signed and good to go. Wow! I figured this would be another thing I would be stressing over up until the last minute, but the command was able to turn it around rather quickly…I'm pleasantly surprised. Now when my mom and aunt come to visit, I can hang out with them and be their tour guide and chauffeur. I headed out and stopped by the ComSec office to pick up a copy of this month's staff duty roster…I have it on the 19th.
I then headed over to the shopping center and visited the TKS shop. This is the company that provides our internet, phone, and TV package. I checked in with them to see what I need to do in order to close out everything before I leave. No big deal, I just have to turn in the TV box and I'll be good to go. I then went over to my wife's office and hung out with her until she got off work and we headed home. I figured if they are going to make me come in at the buttcrack of dawn tomorrow, I'll get my time back somehow.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
IDES Appt - (Germany) Day 442
This morning I did not head to PT, instead I drove a TMP up to Landstuhl hospital for an appointment. I had an appointment at 0830 and left at 0630 even though the trip is only a little over an hour. The problem comes when you reach the hospital gate in the morning because traffic gets backed up pretty far. This morning it actually took me a while to leave because there was ice all over the TMP, so I had to get all of that cleared before leaving. When I arrived at the gate, I was in a long line for about a half hour!
I ended up heading straight into my appointment and only arrived 10 minutes before the scheduled time. A couple minutes later and I would have been late! The appointment was basically sitting down with a doctor and going over all my conditions. The doctor was pretty cool and was able to do a good job of going over everything step by step. We went from my knee issues to my head & neck issues. He had access to all my records at his computer and we went over X-rays and everything else while I was there. His job was to put together a consolidated list of everything that is wrong with me. This list will then be sent to the medboard folks in Ft. Lewis and the process will move on from there.
The appointment lasted until about 1030, then I headed to the food court and ate lunch. After lunch I headed to the TMP to take a nap before driving back. Nobody was expecting me back until 1400 and I didn't want to disappoint them. I ended up getting back a little before 1400 and headed to my office. I was able to do some schoolwork and then some SkillPorts before calling it a day.
I ended up heading straight into my appointment and only arrived 10 minutes before the scheduled time. A couple minutes later and I would have been late! The appointment was basically sitting down with a doctor and going over all my conditions. The doctor was pretty cool and was able to do a good job of going over everything step by step. We went from my knee issues to my head & neck issues. He had access to all my records at his computer and we went over X-rays and everything else while I was there. His job was to put together a consolidated list of everything that is wrong with me. This list will then be sent to the medboard folks in Ft. Lewis and the process will move on from there.
The appointment lasted until about 1030, then I headed to the food court and ate lunch. After lunch I headed to the TMP to take a nap before driving back. Nobody was expecting me back until 1400 and I didn't want to disappoint them. I ended up getting back a little before 1400 and headed to my office. I was able to do some schoolwork and then some SkillPorts before calling it a day.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Got Orders? - (Germany) Day 434
This morning PT was at Campbell gym in civilian clothes. The normal folks went for a run off post, while those of us on profile worked out in the gym. I rode the stationary bike and chatted with SPC Mac the entire time. We are both on what we call the "WTU Train" (Warrior Transition Unit) going through the medboard process.
When I came to work I went through all my emails and filled out some required medboard paperwork that the transition office requested. I chatted with the chaplain and did some more admin work for him. Before I left for a hearing appointment, I took the transition paperwork to our S1 shop and dropped it off for them to sign. My MedPro status had changed earlier from green to red because I needed a hearing test done. I need to have everything green in order to put in for a pass or leave, so I wanted to get this taken care of as soon as possible. The last time I went, I couldn't find anyone there. This time the door was unlocked to the audiology office, but when I stepped in it looked like a ghost town. There was nothing in the room except some sparse furniture and phone wires with no phones attached. At this point I started to get a little worried that I may have to head to Landstuhl in order to get this hearing test done. I went to the information desk and inquired about it. The guy made a call, then escorted me to an unmarked door where a man greeted me and started the process. Strange that they would not put a sign up or something, but no worries…I'm there and ready to get this done with.
The hearing test was a standard test…put on some headphones and listen to beeps, clicking a button each time one is heard. My hearing has degraded since my last test in basic which is no surprise. I'm older and have heard a lot of loud noises while in the army. I got my slip stating that I had my test done, then headed home for lunch.
Once back at work I went by S1 and picked up my paperwork. I then headed over to the reassignment office to turn all the paperwork in. To my surprise they already had my orders ready. The guy gave me multiple copies and wished me luck. It seems that much more official now that I finally have orders to Ft. Lewis! I then went back to my office and started making an electronic checklist of everything that I need to do both at work, for my PCS, and the passes and leave I want to take. There is a lot of stuff and I want to stay organized and on top of it all.
When I came to work I went through all my emails and filled out some required medboard paperwork that the transition office requested. I chatted with the chaplain and did some more admin work for him. Before I left for a hearing appointment, I took the transition paperwork to our S1 shop and dropped it off for them to sign. My MedPro status had changed earlier from green to red because I needed a hearing test done. I need to have everything green in order to put in for a pass or leave, so I wanted to get this taken care of as soon as possible. The last time I went, I couldn't find anyone there. This time the door was unlocked to the audiology office, but when I stepped in it looked like a ghost town. There was nothing in the room except some sparse furniture and phone wires with no phones attached. At this point I started to get a little worried that I may have to head to Landstuhl in order to get this hearing test done. I went to the information desk and inquired about it. The guy made a call, then escorted me to an unmarked door where a man greeted me and started the process. Strange that they would not put a sign up or something, but no worries…I'm there and ready to get this done with.
The hearing test was a standard test…put on some headphones and listen to beeps, clicking a button each time one is heard. My hearing has degraded since my last test in basic which is no surprise. I'm older and have heard a lot of loud noises while in the army. I got my slip stating that I had my test done, then headed home for lunch.
Once back at work I went by S1 and picked up my paperwork. I then headed over to the reassignment office to turn all the paperwork in. To my surprise they already had my orders ready. The guy gave me multiple copies and wished me luck. It seems that much more official now that I finally have orders to Ft. Lewis! I then went back to my office and started making an electronic checklist of everything that I need to do both at work, for my PCS, and the passes and leave I want to take. There is a lot of stuff and I want to stay organized and on top of it all.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
PEBLO Briefing - (Germany) Day 433
A view of the Landstuhl Medical Center from the sky.
I was told that it's design was to help in case it is bombed, there
are several buildings all attached instead of one large hospital building
When I arrived they had me sign in and then my case nurse (or something like that) took me back into her office. We went over all my paperwork and she gave me a little pre-briefing briefing. I headed back to the conference room where there ended up being a total of three soldiers going through the process. We had a total of three briefings all about the medboard process. The first was legal, then another guy who works with a number of soldier organizations, and finally the PEBLO brief. We learned what the process will be like and how long it should take. We learned the various outcomes of the medboard process and what things we can appeal and what we can't. It was an interesting brief, but I had heard a lot of it before from SPC Mac since he just went through his. It's always best to hear it straight from the source though…as the ComSec motto goes "Trust No One".
After the brief I had to make an appointment for an OPIN appointment. This is where a doctor will discuss everything with me and write down kind of a consolidated form with everything on it. This will be sent to the WTU in Ft. Lewis and used as a starting point for the medboard process. I have that appointment next Thursday.
I grabbed a bite to eat at the food court in the hospital, then headed back to my office. By the time I filled up the TMP and turned it back into the ComSec office it was 1500. I met up with the chaplain and we went over everything that's going on with all his events. He also said he talked to my platoon sergeant and got me off of garbage duty from now on. The chaplain said he needs me too much, and can't spare me every Monday. So…no more "Garbage Man Mondays".
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Busy Body - (Germany) Day 420
This morning for PT we formed up at the Patton Barracks gym. Patton Barracks is located a little closer than Campbell Barracks and is where most of the single soldiers live. This was the first time we have done PT there, and after today I think we may end up going there more often. There were a lot less people there and with it being closer, it seems like a no brainer. The normal folks did circuit training while I headed into the cardio room and road a bicycle.
When I got to my office, the first thing I did was check my email box. I had to fill out a form that was sent to me by the medboard folks asking some basic information about me and my unit. I filled it out and emailed it back. I then went through a varied assortment of other email. When the chaplain came in I met up with him and we went over the plan for the short week we have left. My big mission today was to get the scoop on ordering party platters from Subway. I had some other errands such as getting some flyers and bulletins printed on a color printer and sending out some emails…mostly administrative stuff, but it kept me busy all day long.
I headed home for lunch and when I got back I continued with the administrative duties. I received an email late in the day from the medboard folks again. This time it was sent to my commander and I was carbon copied. It basically stated that unless an exception to policy letter is done, or some other event, that I should be leaving within 90 to 120 days. The policy is for overseas soldiers to go through the medboard process back in the states. I have an appointment back in Landstuhl on the 5th of next month where I believe I'll get a lot more answers. As for now, I hope that they move me to Fort Lewis for the medboard process. It would be nice to see friends and family once again. I would also like to be able to see my kids more than just a short period each summer. One can hope.
My wife was starting to feel pretty sick, so the chaplain let me leave early and take her home. I'm not much of a cook, but I did make her soup and tried to take care of her as best I could. I'm also popping vitamin C every chance I get…she looks, feels, and sounds pretty bad and I don't want any part of that!
When I got to my office, the first thing I did was check my email box. I had to fill out a form that was sent to me by the medboard folks asking some basic information about me and my unit. I filled it out and emailed it back. I then went through a varied assortment of other email. When the chaplain came in I met up with him and we went over the plan for the short week we have left. My big mission today was to get the scoop on ordering party platters from Subway. I had some other errands such as getting some flyers and bulletins printed on a color printer and sending out some emails…mostly administrative stuff, but it kept me busy all day long.
I headed home for lunch and when I got back I continued with the administrative duties. I received an email late in the day from the medboard folks again. This time it was sent to my commander and I was carbon copied. It basically stated that unless an exception to policy letter is done, or some other event, that I should be leaving within 90 to 120 days. The policy is for overseas soldiers to go through the medboard process back in the states. I have an appointment back in Landstuhl on the 5th of next month where I believe I'll get a lot more answers. As for now, I hope that they move me to Fort Lewis for the medboard process. It would be nice to see friends and family once again. I would also like to be able to see my kids more than just a short period each summer. One can hope.
My wife was starting to feel pretty sick, so the chaplain let me leave early and take her home. I'm not much of a cook, but I did make her soup and tried to take care of her as best I could. I'm also popping vitamin C every chance I get…she looks, feels, and sounds pretty bad and I don't want any part of that!
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
It's Permanent - (Germany) Day 412
This morning's PT was at the gym on Campbell, those not on profile did circuit drills while those of us on profile went to the gym and worked out on our own. I got a good workout doing my normal routine of weights. The only bummer about having PT at Campbell is that it makes the rest of the morning a bit rushed.
I headed into my office and had time to finish up one of the mandatory online training modules, but when I tried to do another I found out that I needed an upgraded version of flash in order to do it. So I put in a help desk request and perhaps I'll be able to do it tomorrow. The chaplain had me work on another flyer and after that it was about time for lunch, so I headed home.
After lunch I headed to the Landstuhl hospital for my neurology appointment. I arrived and saw my doctor, the appointment was a follow-up and all we did was talk about how everything was going. By the end of the conversation we both agreed that after almost a year of being on temporary profile and trying a number of options, nothing has improved. So she changed my profile to permanent and it has a PULHES (a scoring system used by the military to rate a physical profile) score with multiple 3s. A 3 means I have some medical conditions that require significant limitations. This will trigger a medboard at some point, the doctor could not tell me how fast it would happen because it really varies. The good news is that I do not need to go get my profile renewed all the time and I will not have to do anything that will aggravate my neck/head. I guess we'll see where this takes me. Glad to have this first step done and over with.
I headed home and picked up my wife from work. I finished my schoolwork and spent the evening hanging out with my wife.
I headed into my office and had time to finish up one of the mandatory online training modules, but when I tried to do another I found out that I needed an upgraded version of flash in order to do it. So I put in a help desk request and perhaps I'll be able to do it tomorrow. The chaplain had me work on another flyer and after that it was about time for lunch, so I headed home.
After lunch I headed to the Landstuhl hospital for my neurology appointment. I arrived and saw my doctor, the appointment was a follow-up and all we did was talk about how everything was going. By the end of the conversation we both agreed that after almost a year of being on temporary profile and trying a number of options, nothing has improved. So she changed my profile to permanent and it has a PULHES (a scoring system used by the military to rate a physical profile) score with multiple 3s. A 3 means I have some medical conditions that require significant limitations. This will trigger a medboard at some point, the doctor could not tell me how fast it would happen because it really varies. The good news is that I do not need to go get my profile renewed all the time and I will not have to do anything that will aggravate my neck/head. I guess we'll see where this takes me. Glad to have this first step done and over with.
I headed home and picked up my wife from work. I finished my schoolwork and spent the evening hanging out with my wife.
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