Well, I went two years without meds and when I tried to get back into my psychiatrist I had to go through the new patient evaluation too. It was actually pretty helpful and I don't regret it, but it did cost more. I can see a medical reason for it that has nothing to do with profit. It's unfortunate that the office person you spoke with couldn't explain the medical side to it without escalating the issue.

It sounds like the front office person was just not very experienced or professional. But since you'll have to get past that person to see the psychiatrist you maybe have to ask yourself if that's going to work for you. Maybe a different psychiatrist would be better. Start over, stick with it--something like that.

Psychiatrists walk a thin line and face lots of liability issues. They see things from a different perspective, and they're always fighting the drug companies and the insurance companies. A full evaluation every so often is IMO a sign that you've got a good shrink there. It's just the office person who was a drag.

Good luck. I hope you can get an appointment soon.