[Mrhomercat]

Hi friends. As some of you are aware, I am homeless. I currently am receiving treatment courtesy of the mental health department in the county I reside. I am very grateful for the services I am receiving. Yet, I ponder the quality of treatment private insurance affords as opposed to government treatment. I saw my P'doc today. I explained that the meds for my depression and anxiety were ineffective. He said he would not raise the dosage of the Antivan I currently take, which is 1mg x 4 per day, and continue me on Zoloft 200mgs x 2 per day. I have been on these dosages for 4 months. I am in real need of some relief from my persistent anxiety and depression. I feel I'm not receiving the respect because I have no private insurance. I am frustrated and angry and in pain, what the hell is going on! Thanks for letting me vent.

[gelfling]

i have no insurance and am currently being jerked around by two therapists who seem to have to have each others consent and blessing before they can continue therapy with me - i agree - if you have no insurance you are treated like crap

[Perna]

Mr. Nice Cat, I'm so sorry you're feeling so disrespected. Did you ask pdoc "why" or what his thinking was as to what meds you're continuing on? You're taking right in the middle of the usual Ativan dose and twice the usual Zoloft max. I don't know that more would help, especially with your semi-circumstantial problems? Not knowing where your next whatever is coming from is going to cause anxiety in anyone. I don't know that private insurance helps a lot in managing doctors; it just gives one the chance to jump from the frying pan into the fire, find an even worse situation if we like

[Rhiannonsmoon]

I hope you get something resolved Mr homercat....this sense of helplessness is something that really messes with your head....good luck and ((((hugs))))

Rhiannon

[ECHOES]

The pdoc's response did not match your expectation. That doesn't meant the quality of care is lacking. It means he has his own ideas about what your dosage should be, based on his knowledge and experience, and knowing you as well.
When he said he would not raise the dosage, did he offer other suggestions?

I once asked an excellent psychiatrist if my care through a community mental health clinic was good or not. His reply was that he spent time working in community mental health settings and he enjoyed it and thought the care was very good. He was sincere and it was reassuring to hear that.