What does HMO stand for?
This is actually a variation of the phrase, Hey, Moe! Its roots go
back to a concept pioneered by Doctor Moe Howard, who discovered that a
patient could be made to forget about the pain in his foot if he was
poked hard enough in the eyes. Modern practice replaces the physical
finger poke with hi-tech equivalents such as voice mail and referral
slips, but the result remains the same.
Do all diagnostic procedures require pre-certification?
No. Only those you need.
I just joined a new HMO. How difficult will it be to choose the
doctor I want?
Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents. Your
insurer will provide you with a book listing all the doctors who were
participating in the plan at the time the information was gathered.
These doctors basically fall into two categories — those who are no
longer accepting new patients, and those who will see you but are no
longer part of the plan. But dont worry — the remaining doctor who is
still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office just a half
days drive away!
What are pre-existing conditions?
This is a phrase used by the grammatically challenged when they
want to talk about existing conditions. Unfortunately, we appear to
be pre-stuck with it.
Well, can I get coverage for my pre-existing conditions?
Certainly, as long as they dont require any treatment.
What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine?
Youll need to find alternative forms of payment.
My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name
brand. I tried the generic medication, but it gave me a stomach ache.
What should I do?
Poke yourself in the eye.
I have an 80/20 plan with a $200 deductible and a $2,000 yearly
cap. My insurer reimbursed the doctor for my out-patient surgery,
but Id already paid my bill. What should I do?
You have two choices. Your doctor can sign the reimbursement
check over to you, or you can ask him to invest the money for you in
one of those great offers that only doctors and dentists hear about,
like windmill farms or frog hatcheries.
What should I do if I get sick while traveling?
Try sitting in a different part of the bus.
No, I mean what if Im away from home and I get sick?
You really shouldnt do that. Youll have a hard time seeing
your primary care physician. Its best to wait until you return, and
then get sick.
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 office?
Hard to say, but considering that all youre risking is the $10
co-payment, theres no harm giving him a shot at it.
What accounts for the largest portion of health care costs?
Doctors trying to recoup their investment losses.
Will health care be any different in the next century?
No, but if you call right now, you might get an appointment by then.

Written by David Lubar