It only takes one trip to CO to become Dr. Hepworth’s patient but it does require seeing his NP Allison Love first then you get a follow-up video appt w/ Dr. Hepworth. When you get through to his office again, make an appt. Below is my response to your previous post in Surgery next week with Dr. Hackman - #32 by Isaiah_40_31 . I hope this info helps.
I’m really sorry to hear about the lack of communication from Dr. Bunnell’s ofc. We’ve had similar complaints about Dr. Hepworth’s ofc & have found that he is suffering from a severe front ofc staffing shortage at the moment. That may hold true for Dr. Bunnell as well.
What Jules said about Dr. Hepworth is correct - first in person meeting is with his NP Allison Love. The unanimous verdict about her is that she is TOTALLY AWESOME so the trip doesn’t feel wasted. You can schedule your surgery after seeing Allison (usually 4-6 mos out). After you’ve seen her she will schedule a follow-up video appt for you & Dr. Hepworth so you can “meet” him & discuss your questions & other relevant issues. As noted, he will require you to get some vascular testing from Vascular Institute of the Rockies. I think that can be scheduled at the same time you’re there to see Allison or if you go a few days early for your surgery. You shouldn’t have to make an extra trip just for that.
Dr. Hackman in NC has also helped a number of our patients who have vascular ES though he doesn’t have a vascular surgeon present in the OR as does Dr. Hepworth. Dr. Hackman doesn’t book out as far as Dr. Hepworth & he will do bilateral surgery so both styloids can be removed at once. That can cause a more difficult recovery initially, but at least you only have to go through it once. I had wished for bilateral surgery when I had mine done, but I saw a surgeon who required two surgeries for that (as does Dr. Hepworth & most of the other doctors on our list).
I’m glad you’ve gotten some helpful info. from our forum & am very happy you’ve joined the discussions now. Good for you figuring out how to start a new topic. The process is a bit cryptic.