Finding/working with a doctor

[Ne/Neva Eva]

I am a little bitter right now. Sorry for that. I'll try not to swear, with this exception:
WTF?
I can't take bac. I'm embittered because I want to... I had SEs at low doses, for much longer than the half-life. So what am I doing/experiencing wrong? Going along fine and then BAM! a world of hurt.
So. I want a doc. I've reached out in a couple of different ways to find one, it hasn't worked and I've decided to just go through the phone book. I don't want to spend a fortune on an 'intake' not covered by insurance. I would like to interview them so we don't waste each other's time and my money. I figure if they're not open to a paid phone/in person 15 minute discussion it'll be easy to cross them off. If they are, what to ask???
I'd like to start with, "are you an a$$?" But that seems contra-indicated. Especially since that might just mean we could work together.
So here's the scenario in my head:
Hi, my name is and I'm an alcoholic.
introduction:my brief history, then the qualifications of the doc.
Do you treat alcoholics?
And then I'm at a loss.
Me: I've recently read a book by Dr. A. Have you heard of Baclofen for treating alcoholism? Ever treated anyone with alcoholism? Successfully?
Or, less pointedly: I've done some research into the disease.
Silence, wait for it...
WHAT?
I have it on good authority that I don't want to approach this as though I'm interviewing, much less interrogating. So what are the questions you would ask a health care professional in terms of alcoholism? Out of curiousity or with the naked ambition of finding someone who could help you?
Other than, "are you an expletive-of-your-choice?"

[techie]

Finding/working with a doctor

I don't take bac neva but know a few that do. I am prescribed topamax by my doctor. He is a psychopharmacologist. I find that they are much more well versed in new drug treatment protocols and more open to supporting patients requests. I wish you luck!

[Sunnyvalenting]

Finding/working with a doctor

neva,
You ask a very good question.
I am not sure if you are still wanting to try baclofen. If so:
I think I would approach them in all honesty and tell them the short version of your alcohol addiction and review the research you have done on baclofen and why you think it may work for you. I would empathize with any early reluctance and ask them to read dr A's book. At least the last few chapters where the science is (the first 150 pages are a very depressing drunkalogue) (take a copy with you to lend them). Admit that you understand you are asking them to prescribe off lable but that you are personally willing to accept all the risk and hold them harmless for a failure or complication.

If not baclofen ask them about other meds to consider such as naltrexone or whatever.

If they come along and are willing to work with you you have found your doc. If they dismiss out of hand that is helpful too as that person can be crossed off your list.

I think there are still scientific doctors out there willing to take chances and do the best they can for their patients. I would not ask if they were asses tho.
IMO
Sunny

[Ne/Neva Eva]

Finding/working with a doctor

Thanks to you both. Techie, a psychopharmacologist! Yes! that's a good clue. (BTW, computer seems better.
Sunny, yes, asking if someone's an ass might not be the best introduction. (Plus, I don't know how I'd answer that question. "Um, well, yeah.")
I've enlisted the help of Phill, from baclofen4alcoholism as well. He's been so responsive/friendly, it makes me feel a little, well, calmer. Helped.
A lot like Dr. Levin does.
So the goal of finding a local dr. goes unmet, but the search goes on. I think the next task is a date with or without meds. Nervous (what if I don't actually DO it?) and energized (First step!)
Best to all.
eva