I HATE Ipledge....

So, I went to the derm's office this morning (9a) to get my prescription for accutane. I have done all my bloodwork and got all my ducks in a row. Someone either forgot or screwed up getting me into the system so I could answer the questions, etc. I called BEFORE they closed today - the nurse's line is who the front desk made me deal with. No one called me back. To say I am PISSED is not even cutting it close. I could cry right now because I had myself in a mental place to get this show on the road. My PA is sweet - I called her number and she said there is nothing that can be done until Monday. The nurse's have all the information and it will have to wait until Monday (my PA will address the nurse's failure to call me back tonight since I called before they closed today). FUCK. Sorry about the swearing. I mean, that is 3 more days of waiting to start. I have already waited 5 fucking weeks to start this medicine and now I it's almost 6. My kids are gone, I was going to run to the pharmacy to take care of this BS and now it's going to get complicated next week. Thanks for letting me RANT. I hate the FDA and I hate Ipledge because it's a fucked up system since all it takes is one person to screw you over. This always happens to me. Nothing can ever be simple. AAAGGGHHH!!!!!

The Dermatologist's Office

When you are at the dermatologist's office do you see the MD or do you see a physician's assistant (PA) or nurse practitioner (ARNP)? I have never actually seen the MD in the clinic I currently go to (been there 4 years). I see the PA - and I do like her and have a lot of trust in her. I have looked into other offices and it seems they are all set up where the are several MDs on staff and a bunch of PAs and ARNPs who have their own patients. Any thoughts?

new to the community (not new to acne)

Hi Everyone! I have, like so many others before me, lurked on these message boards for several years. I have looked at your postings for advice, frustrations and to see that I am not alone with my skin problems. It is time for me to be a part of this community.

About me... I am a 39yo female who had great skin (no acne) until about 4 years ago (a year after the birth of my second child). I have mild/moderate cystic acne. I have been visiting the derm regularly since then. I have taken antibiotics and used all kinds of skin products - prescription and non-prescription. About 7-8 months ago it was suggested I use accutane. I have been holding off - but think I am now ready to take the plunge. My acne is becoming increasingly persistent and I have not been 'clear' for several months (it's amazing your definition of 'clear' when your skin keeps breaking out). I can't imagine being 40 and suffering from acne - I thought I would be worried about wrinkles and using botox at this point! It is taking a toll on emotional well-being and I am tired of being held back by the condition of my skin. I believe my acne is hormonal based, but I have not had any success with those types of oral medications. I have read a lot of information and believe it is my best chance to seek remission from this problem.

I have found a few women in my age range on these boards and would love to hear from you (and, really, anyone else who wants to lend support). I think I may write an accutane journal just to keep me sane. I have an appt. with the derms office on Tuesday and am going to ask for the big guns. Wish me luck - since she brought it up I doubt I will have any problems getting the prescription. I find the members of this website to be incredibly generous and supportive. I suppose that is what I am looking for since none of my friends this age really have any idea how tough it is!