Quote:
Originally Posted by rcat
Now that brings up yet another question. The act of being able to choose your doctor and psychiatric service.
In my region, you have no choice at all. When your family doctor makes a referral he/she tries to match you up with a psychiatrist who might be best for you, but you may end up waiting 12-18mos for an assessment. Thus, the chances are more likely that it is 'first come first served.' The ONLY way to obtain a psychiatrist is through your family doctor.
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Yes, here in the US there are several ways to seek mental health care.
One is by Doctor referral if your insurance is of the HMO type. Another is any doctor of your choosing if they accept your insurance with a PPO.
Another is not having a choice by poverty and attending a clinic that charges on a sliding scale. Another is out of pocket. Another is providers that accept Medicaid. There are even a few grants and programs out there for the mentally ill who can't afford care.
We have lots of doctors in this area, but there are still waiting lists up from a week to a few months long. Some will see you in a few days, depending where you are at. For instance, I live in a city so there are a few to choose from.
Oh, if you notice, the options and quality of care depends on $$$.
