I am always amazed at how even people with advanced degrees don't seem to be able to find good health care and settle for care that is not only bad, but could be dangerous. When children are involved that is even a greater concern. The man who was instrumental in starting the concept of HMOs finally admitted it was a very bad idea when he himself had care from an HMO.
A friend asked me to check on a doctor she was to see for severe back pain. Not only had he gone to a poor medical school, but he was not even an orthopedist with training in back problems. Before I would see any doctor whether it is for yourself, a family member, or a child, I would look on the Internet and check his or her training, how long the doctor had been in practice, comments about the doctor and if he or she has been in practice for more than a few years. You also want to be sure the doctor is board-certified in his or her particular specialty. I am sure there are good young doctors, but I would only go to a doctor who has been practicing for a while and also has had good training.
If you decide to use an HMO, be aware that there are many restrictions, Also, they use many nurse practitioners who do not have MDs supervising them. They may also have restrictions on what specialists can be seen, conditions that are excluded and out of state emergencies not covered.
Before you sign anything, read the fine print very carefully. It could save your life or that of a family member.
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