I was sent out to see a cardiologist on Aug. 17, 2023. After doing two EKGs, he requested that I return in a month. I wasn’t given the results of the EKG and the doctor’s interpretation until I filed a BP-8 [the first step of the BOP grievance process]. And even then, I wasn’t shown the actual EKG results. Until I filed the complaint, no one told me that I have atrial fibrillation and right bundle branch block (which makes it harder for my heart to pump blood efficiently).
And that return doctor visit? It didn’t happen for almost a year (on June 3, 2024). Finally, I was fitted with a heart monitor for 72 hours. I wonder how long it will take for me to learn the results of that test?
Staff has also impeded my sister’s ability to learn about my health. She had completed a BP-A0621 form (Authorization or Release of Medical Information Form), yet staff told me that the only time the BOP can give inmates’ medical records/ information to our family is when we have serious issues. In fact, the clinical director here threatened me through one of the COs when I got back from my medical visit, saying he will write me up if my sister keeps calling for information about my health. (The clinical director also falsely claimed he told me about my medical conditions earlier, but I have not seen him since June of last year!)