So frustrated with our health insurance....

[LynzM]

Let me first say that I know that I'm very lucky to have health insurance at all, given that I'm diabetic. Still.

So, the healthcare that we have through my work is "Great-West" healthcare. We're on the east coast. That's strike one.

We changed primary care physicians, now 40 minutes away, to be covered. Strike two.

I went and saw the only "in-network" psychiatrist, to help with the anxiety, and left his office in tears. Strike three.

So, I decided to go to a non-network provider. They cover 50%, it will be kind of expensive, but... better than nothing, right? I was at a point where I needed help.

Got my statements today that it's covered at 50%, blah-blah-blah. Great. Since I've already paid, where's my check for that 50% back?

Called to find out. Turns out that there's an "in-network" deductible, and a separate out-of-network deductible!! So, we're responsible for $1000 out-of-network before we'd start getting that 50% back! Pardon, but :wtf:. Can they ream us for just a *little* more money, thanks? I realize that we're really lucky to have family coverage for about $400/month, but... the coverage kinda sucks. Almost no local doctors, really mediocre prescription coverage. I'm still paying ~$100/month for scripts. And to top it off, there's $253 I will not be getting back. *sigh*

:rant:

[LaraMN]

1. I empathize, hon.

Not only do fewer people have insurance coverage every year; but those of us fortunate enough to have it pay more and more for less and less. It fucking blows.

[LynzM]

3. Yup, you nailed it, Lara.

More money, less services covered. *sigh*

[AirmensMom]

2. That's the way it works, unfortunately.

And the same doctors aren't even "in network" from year to year. My experience has been that the "out of network" doctors are better than the "in network" ones. If you can get some help, it'll be worth it. Good luck. :hug:

[LynzM]

4. That's been my experience, too

Re: out-of-network docs seeming better than in-network ones. But you're right, it was worth it to see someone who knew what they were talking about, listened to me, and didn't just go "here's a script for the rest of your life." :hug:

[lizziegrace]

5. That's so typical

:(

I have no idea what your situation is and these suggestions may not even apply, but...

If you have a community mental health center, you can see counselors and psychiatrists and they'll use a sliding scale for payment. That way you might be able to find a doctor that's good for you. Also, once you have a script for the anxiety meds, would your primary care doctor take care of prescribing?

If the meds are too expensive, ask for samples or contact the manufacturer about getting reduced cost or free meds for a period of time.

I know what it's like to have a psych who leaves you in tears. The one I see now did until I let him have it. Now I guess he just tolerates me. :(

:hug:

[yvr girl]

6. That sucks

I'm so grateful to live in Canada.