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Welcome to my blog, a place to explore and learn about the experience of running a psychiatric practice. I post about things that I find useful to know or think about. So, enjoy, and let me know what you think.


Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Out Of Network Benefits in NY

As I've previously mentioned, I may need a new job in the not-too-distant future, because as of right now, there is no out of network mental health coverage on the exchanges in NY State. I've already had to lower fees for several patients, and see some of them less frequently, because they no longer have the insurance coverage they had last year. This is going to create a staggering problem in NY. There will be an even more stratified system for outpatient psychiatric care, particularly therapy, because shrinks will either have to restrict their practices to people who can pay them out of pocket, or in many cases, leave private practice because they can't afford to run one anymore. And I know most people don't have much sympathy for doctors who don't make as much money as they'd like, but it costs money to run a practice, and doctors, like other Americans, are inalienably entitled to the life, liberty, and the pursuit of property. So have some compassion for patients who need mental health care, and for the people who care for them, and sign the petition to keep out of network coverage on the exchanges.