I have been with my medical practice for 3 years. I am 89 years old, type 2 with no complications after 20 years. I am content with slow release Metformin and one tablet Gliclazide taken before breakfast. The nurse bellowed after me as I left my last visit, "Next time, I 'll be taking away the Gliclazide!" This is because the elderly may be more prone to unintended low blood sugars and they may not notice symptoms. She is also "afraid that you will fall and break your hip."
However, not a single question has been asked as to my healthy lifestyle, long term yoga practice and love of walking in the open air. I have good posture, have never yet had a serious fall and want to stay on Gliclazide because I think it is more effective than Metformin. I am willing to take the risk of unintended low blood sugars because I DO so far notice the symptoms and enjoy my food so do not intend to be too strict with diet as that makes me depressed.
I like my doctor so do not wish to leave the practice but do I have the legal right to refuse the demands of a nurse who only sees the illness and not the person behind it?
However, not a single question has been asked as to my healthy lifestyle, long term yoga practice and love of walking in the open air. I have good posture, have never yet had a serious fall and want to stay on Gliclazide because I think it is more effective than Metformin. I am willing to take the risk of unintended low blood sugars because I DO so far notice the symptoms and enjoy my food so do not intend to be too strict with diet as that makes me depressed.
I like my doctor so do not wish to leave the practice but do I have the legal right to refuse the demands of a nurse who only sees the illness and not the person behind it?