With such discouraging news, where do we go from here? Specialists share their best advice:

Don’t delay seeking a referral.

Seeing a specialist is expensive and takes time out of a busy schedule. These are only a couple reasons why it’s understandable that you may not seek a referral ASAP. At the same time, doctors don’t recommend this, saying it can hurt your case.

“If your primary care physician suggests seeing a specialist, start that process immediately, given the current wait times,” Lal said.

Make telehealth appointments when it’s appropriate.

Telemedicine won’t work for every condition, and it’s certainly not the preferred option for many of us. But, it can be an option for some specialist consultations, Lal said, that may offer shorter wait times. 

While it may not be all you need to address your health concern, it may give you some answers that can prevent your condition from worsening.

It’s probably not surprising to hear that Larrazabal considered virtual care “a game-changer.” He added how it gives you access to specialists who are farther away — so more options — without sacrificing the quality of the provider.

Stay in close communication with your primary care provider.

While a PCP can’t do some of the work a specialist can, they help in other ways. Lal urged keeping in contact with them so they can help you manage your condition and advocate for expedited appointments if your condition worsens.

Consider group-based care.

Yes, this is a thing! Talk to your doctor’s office or local hospital about it.

“Group sessions allow providers to support multiple families simultaneously, reducing wait times while creating valuable support networks,” Larrazabal said. 

It can also be uniquely beneficial from an emotional and social point of view. 

“As a pediatrician, I’ve seen how parents often feel isolated in managing their child’s health challenges,” he continued. “Group-based care helps them realize they’re not alone, and these shared experiences can be incredibly validating.”

These sessions can be offered virtually, he added, which allows caregivers to get that support without necessarily needing to arrange child care or time off from work.

Advocate for yourself.

Doctors may dismiss patients’ concerns for many reasons, unfortunately — some of which require systemic change. But sometimes, standing up for yourself and providing as much info as possible can help you avoid that.

“Often, delays aren’t due to doctors not listening but rather needing more information to make the right referral,” Browd said. “That’s why we encourage patients to ask questions and advocate for themselves — our ability to provide the best care depends on the information we receive.”

Some tips that may help you self-advocate include keeping a diary of your symptoms, bringing a support person, asking questions and pushing for a referral.

Try not to lose hope.

Specialists are aware of the barriers you face, and they’re trying to address them.

“Doctors genuinely care about their patients and recognize that every moment matters,” Browd said. “While we work to reduce wait times and improve care, systemic change takes time.”

AI is even making a difference. It can automate routine tasks and enhance decision-making, he continued, giving clinicians more time for patients.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.