Email: MEDICAL INSURANCE EXPLAINED

MEDICAL  INSURANCE EXPLAINED  (Research done by the AARP Legal  Department
  Q..  What does HMO stand  for?


 A.  This  is actually a variation of the phrase,  "HEY  MOE."   Its  roots go back to a concept pioneered by Moe of the Three Stooges,  who discovered that a patient could be made to forget the pain in  his foot if he was poked hard enough in the  eye.

   Q.  I just joined an  HMO.   How  difficult will it be to choose the doctor I  want?

  A.  Just  slightly more difficult than choosing your  parents.   Your  insurer will provide you with a book listing all the doctors in the  plan.   The  doctors basically fall into two categories: those who are no longer  accepting new patients, and those who will see you but are no longer  participating in the plan.   But  don't worry, the remaining doctor who is still in the plan and  accepting new patients has an office just a half-day's drive away  and a diploma from a third world country.

   Q.  Do all diagnostic procedures  require  pre-certification?

  A.  No.  Only those you need.



   Q.  Can I get coverage for my  preexisting  conditions?

  A.  Certainly,  as long as they don't require any  treatment.

   Q.  What happens if I want to try  alternative forms of  medicine?

  A.  You'll  need to find alternative forms of payment.

   Q.  My  pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name  brand.   I  tried the generic medication, but it gave me a  stomachache.   What  should I do?



  A.  Poke  yourself in the eye.


   Q.  What if I'm away from home and I  get sick?

  A.  You  really shouldn't do that

   Q.  I think I need to see a  specialist, but my doctor insists he can handle my  problem. Can  a general practitioner really perform a heart transplant right in  his/her office?
  A..  Hard  to say, but considering that all you're risking is the $20  co-payment, there's no harm in giving it a  shot

   Q.  Will health care be different in  the next decade?

  A.  No,  but if you call right now, you might get an appointment by  then.


   To  Your Good Health (because as you'll see, you'll need  it!)