Korean Job Discussion Forums

[dasmith2]

So I just found out I may have a condition called interstitial cystitis. In order to make a diagnosis though, I need to have a cystoscopy and hydro distention of the bladder under a general anesthetic. Since I am due to arrive in Korea this Saturday, I am unable to have the procedure here.
I have been in contact with some references from the Yeosu Education Board. They know a Korean doctor who will be able to set me up with a doctor or translator in Yeosu. For the procedure though, I would like some advice about whether or not to have a native english speaking urologist do the job. Feelings? Thoughts? Comments? I would appreciate anyone's help because once I am diagnosed with IC I will be able to start feeling much better! Right now nothing can be prescribed for the pain because the origin of the pain is not confidently determined.

[dr. love]

I would highly recommend against having the procedure done in Yeosu and insist on going to a larger hospital in Kwangju or even better in Seoul.

Because IC varies so much in symptoms and severity, most researchers believe it is not one, but several diseases. In recent years, scientists have started to use the term painful bladder syndrome. Because the causes of IC/PBS are unknown, current treatments are aimed at relieving symptoms. Many people are helped for variable periods by one or a combination of treatments.

If you'd like a referral to an English speaking specialist, I'd be happy to help.

[SunnyD]

Awesome doctor: Ung Gill Jeong at Yeochun Chonnam Hospital. He's the medical director, and a surgeon, clear English speaker, and we are welcome to see him for all our medical needs. Direct line is 061-690-6100, or for medical emergency foreigners are welcome to call his cell phone 011-9603-6061.

He did his residency in Ohio. Korean doctors usually see patients on a walk-in basis, but he's always got a loooong wait, so I suggest calling for an appointment. He takes plenty of time with you, because he loves to speak English, lol. But he will treat your needs, explain your medicines well, and his methods don't seem as questionable as -other- Korean doctors. Other doctors freak out when you tell them you'd like a specific medicine, such as zithromax, to treat your horribly nasty strep throat. But he's totally fine with a more cooperative approach. So basically, he'll work -with- you to treat your condition, and he doesn't lose face when you question him.

So who knows if he can do your surgery, but he's a great resource regardless.

Take care.

[dasmith2]

dr. love, I just pm'd you.

SunnyD. Thank you very much. I will get into contact with this doctor. If anything, he will be able to set me up with a reputable english-speaking urologist, which is what i need. Your recommendation is greatly appreciated. I am so relieved and excited to know that I can look forward to quality medical care. My parents want me to wait until I get back from Korea to have the procedure performed. But that could mean pain every time I pee until next June. I'm not okay with that.
Thank you, again.