>.. just wanted to note that switching physician in the world of the hmo is
>not all that easy and this mom may have no choice... while lying is not
>appropriate we do need to be aware that her choice in hcp may be very limited.

We also need to remember that anyone can choose a doctor outside their HMO
if they are willing to pay the cost.  Some people seem to forget that you
can pay out of your own pocket to see any doctor you want.  I have twice
gone to doctors outside my HMO, and paid the $100 office visit out of my own
pocket.  It was well worth the cost.  Of course not everyone can afford to
do this, but one of my pet peeves is people who could easily afford to do
this complaining that they *can't* go see another doctor because it isn't
covered by their HMO.  Same with brand name drugs over generic, and second
and third opinions, etc.

Kathy Dettwyler