My 85-year-old mother's doctor is dumping her...

[zanana]

Does anybody know if this is legal? I talked to him on the phone the other day and he told me he wants to go with his specialty and leave his other patients behind. (He's a GP). My mother is a sick Alzheimer's patient. I asked him who he's be transferring his patients to. He said he isn't transferring anybody; they'll have to find their own. Do you have any idea how hard it's going to be finding a doctor for an 85 year old Alzheimer's patient? She's not on an HMO, by the way; she has Medicare and Medigap. If this is legal, it damn well shouldn't be. Does anybody know?

[fishnfla]

1. Its legal, yes. Unprofessional, perhaps

but state laws may vary. Here(FL) the Dr. dismissing the patient must provide the names of 3 other nearby Drs. able to provide care.

If your mom has good insurance (and no HMO is the best way to go) it should be no problem. Try and ask a nurse or long-time staff member at the office another Dr's name.

[histohoney]

2. In my state

it's legal. He may not be excepting Medicare and Medigap patients anymore. By law you can't force any doctor to take any plan. Most do work with in insurance networks, HMO and Medicare so that they will get paid and it's easier on the patients. (Believe me, HMO's, insurance and Medicare rules and paper work is a nightmare, most doctors have to have full time staff to handle it.).

That said friend, this doctor sounds absolutely heartless. OK, he don't want the paper work hassle, he could at lest help you with some recommendations for a new doctor. What a stinker.

If she is in a residential treatment center, ask the nursing staff for the names of some doctors. Call your local Alzheimer chapter, they should be a good resource.(Not just for a doctor but for all sorts of support and help for you and your Mother.)

Don't give up, most doctors I know are very dedicated to their patients,(Even when they're being pains in the hinney to the lab).
Keep looking you'll find a good soul to help you and your mother.

God bless and good luck friend. Your mother is very lucky to have such a caring child.:hug: