Out of network Doc's

[prix560]

I have an appointment set up for 02/2009, a little far but a start and I am not sure if she will even go along with the AP but at least hoping. 

The only real issue I have is that she is not in anybody's network.  Is this common?  It is going to make it a tougher sell with my wife, but I really think this is going to work for me.  And as most of you know we with RA will give up damn near anything to get back to our old selves.

[A Friend]

Prix560,

I believe there is an office web site… or was for the one in BR.  If there is, why not send an e-mail to her, stating you have made an appointment and telling her what your needs are.  And, that you would like to know if she may be able to help you.  And, if she can't, perhaps ask her if she can refer you to someone in the area that she knows about.  If no e-mail available, you might consider writing a letter.

If all of the above fails, you might consider going to Lufkin to Dr. RK — drrima.com. It's a pretty good drive, but the highways are good.  And, once treatment is underway, patients usually don't have to come back for 6 months or more.  And, your local physician may be willing to help Dr. K with any intermittent tests, etc. needed. 

The CC and Hospice in Lufkin both have rooms for out-of-town patients and family coming there for medical treatment.  The room's cost is amazingly very little.  The AP physician there is very experienced, even has accepted Medicare, and can do IVs if necessary. 

This is now my AP physician since my last one retired, and I'm very pleased.

AF

[Texas T.]

I go to Lufkin to Dr. RK also.  She is technically “out of network” for me too, but her insurance billing specialist knows how to get insurance to pay for the treatment.  It's worth a try, especially if you current appointment is not until Feb., 2009 – that's 9 months away.  If you start the AP sooner than later, you may be dancing by February next year!  :roll-laugh:

It's 200 miles – 4 hours each way for me, but I only go every 6 months – so it's not too bad.

Let us know what you decide and happy healing to you.

[Pip]

Hey Prix!

Yes, unfortunately a lot of AP docs are 'out of network'.  It upset me when I first found the Roadback but I just dealt with it as, like you, I somehow just knew this would work.  Most of them will give you paperwork for submitting to your insurance carriers too.  It helps. 

I started AP on 8/25 and I was dancing by Halloween.  My hubby yelled at me about it.  The kill joy!

Hugs,

Pip

[Author]

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