Denise,
On the flip side of the coin, we practitioners are trying to get paid to
help people.  It's very frustrating for me because, htere is such a need
for help but, getting money for what I do is tight right now.  We deal with
the HMO issues all the time.  we're a small private practice and are
slowily being squeezed out by larger corporations that have exclusive
contracts with insurance companies.  It's a mess, trust me.  While we've
been pretty lucky (hubby has a government job), my clients often aren't.
They often have to switch providers, beg their doctors for prescriptions
and call insurance companies for preapproval.
My interest lies in helping people with developmental disabilities (like
cp, autism, etc) throughout their lifespans.  How does one find life
affirming vocations, recreation, quality healthcare, etc.  That's why I'm
on this list to learn.  You folks have been great teachers so, when I can
return the favore occasionally and share my knowledge I try.

Elizabeth Thiers, OTR
email: [log in to unmask]
homepage: http://www.bv.net/~john/bethsot1.html

----------
> From: Denise D. Goodman <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: Right Hemi/Spasms
> Date: Monday, April 19, 1999 1:39 PM
>
>
> I'll keep trying to find someone who knows what they are doing, but honey
> that ain't easy!  Once again my husband's employer is switching insurance
so
> I' getting ready for the circus.  Strolling down the carnival mid-way of
HMO
> practioners, plunking down my co-pay while some overworked barker/doctor
> tires to "guess my maintenance" has lost the magical thrill and charm.
I'm
> really tempted to just walk past and not even try my luck.  After all, I
feel
> like the game is rigged.  Sure, I might get lucky and walk away with
generic
> perscription which might help.  The equivalent of a plastic key chain or
> cheap pair of fuzzy dice.  Sorry to sound so cynical Elizabeth, but I'm
> getting too old for carnivals.
>- Denise.