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Ken, there is major debate raging in Congress right now as to this very issue (HMO malfeasance). They are debating the merits of the various forms the Patients Bill of Rights is going to take. Major,major legislation for us. I wonder if any of the formal PD organizations or we grass roots people are at all involved - giving testimony about these types of experiences you mention below, lobbying. etc. I sometimes think the positive benefits of this type of involvement could be with us for many years before the benefits of the Udall Law might kick in -----Original Message----- From: KEn Becker <[log in to unmask]> To: Multiple recipients of list PARKINSN <[log in to unmask]> Date: Friday, July 24, 1998 11:00 PM Subject: Re: Breaking CR >Linda, every time I see situations like this, I go crazy. What right does the >HMO have to second guess a doctor? If they were running an airline would they >let an accountant tell the trained mechanics how to save money by not doing >maintenance, or using cheaper parts? Unfortunately, that's probably exactly >what they would do! >I urge anyone who can avoid using an HMO, to do so. I also think we need >better laws to protect us from "bean counters" controlling our medical >treatment. I always thought the doctor-patient relationship was private!?? I >wonder, do HMO's exist in countries other than the USA? I would hope not! I >belong to a PPO, which is not wonderful either, but at least I can go to >outside doctors if I want to pay a higher co-payment, and deductible. I wonder >how much pain, discomfort, and mental anguish is caused by these Horribly >Managed Organizations? Are there any lawyers who would care to get involved? >(Am I starting trouble here?...GOOD!) [log in to unmask]