Because it seems that getting good medical care is becoming more and more difficult, particularly in HMO's, the need for advocates is increasing. Some hospitals have advocates for their patients and that is great. However, if no advocate is available, what do patients do to get good care? I have recently written several letters for a former patient to the state head of a chain of HMOs and so far her need to get a simple referral to a specialist is now in the hands of their "Member Case Resolution Center!" If they would just allow her to see the needed specialist without wasting my time, her time, and theirs, it would make more sense.
Medicare has an advocacy program that is available at www.medicareadvocacy.org or 1-860-456-7790. I have found them to be helpful for patients who have Medicare. For patients with disabilities, the National Protection and Advocacy group do an excellent job. They have lawyers available to help and I have found them to be outstanding.
Families Voices have also been helpful for children with disabilities. They are at 1-888-635-5669. There is another group, Families USA, that has also been helpful to some of my patients.
Agencies for a specific condition, such as diabetes, autism, cerebral palsy etc. also are often helpful. Some are excellent, some are not, but it is always worthwhile to make a call if you or a family member need help. The "squeaky wheel does get the grease."
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