This seems like a great idea. I would suggest not limiting the
neurologists this is sent to--they will probably limit themselves by not
answering if they don't see any TM cases.
The "PLEASE HELP" in color across the top of the questionnaire may make
some think they're about to be asked for money. I'd say the best way to
get responses is to have a very professional looking, serious cover
letter and well thought out questions--which it sounds like you're
already working on.
Aurore
ableck(AT)nas.edu
====================
George wrote:
> Julie and Joan, I would like to help you with the compilation list of
> neurologists (sp?) and clinics. But, I wonder. Don't you want to
> narrow that to neurologists who working with or specialize in TM? For,
> without that focus, I fear there is a larger population of neuros who
> can't afford the time in TM because they have chosen some other area to
> specialize? Please provide clarification on what you need. For the
> Baltimore MD/Washington D.C region, I will do what I can to satisfy your
> requests. -george
George -
Thanks a lot for your help!
You make a good point! Initially, I'd thought about narrowing the search,
but then I wondered if by doing so, we might actually *exclude* some neuros
who could help us. The only way I can think of narrowing the search is to
call every neurologist's office in the country and to ask the question,
"Does your neurologist specialize in, or have any knowledge of, Transverse
Myelitis?" None of us can afford to do this, and even we could, I wonder
if we would get an accurate response from the office staff?
By sending a questionnaire to every neurologist, we will know that at least
we covered all our bases. (My husband & I are willing to cover the cost of
mailing and deduct it as a charitable contribution. Hopefully the TMA will
have federal non-profit status by that time.) I hope to capture the
attention of the office staff by marking the envelope with a message
printed on a brightly colored label. Also, since I have a color printer, I
can print the message "PLEASE HELP" (or some such thing) in bold red
letters at the top of the questionnaire. Hopefully that will prompt the
neuro to complete it.
I don't know. What do the rest of you think? Having never attempted such
a project, I don't know what would be the best way to approach it. I'm
certainly open to all suggestions.
One thing I forgot to mention in my original message is that BEFORE any
questionnaires go out, I will post the final compilation to TMIC and ask
for feedback.
Again, thanks for your help!
Julie