How to switch OB-GYNs: What's the process?
in Women's Health ·
Finally got the full scoop today.
So, if I want to switch OB-GYNs just because I feel like it—you know, exercising my right to choose—I have to be seeing them for at least a year first. Basically, if I’ve been with my current doctor since April 1st, 2009, I can’t pull the trigger on a move until after April 1st, 2010. Just a standard "free choice" switch.
Now, there is a loophole if I've been there for less than a year, but you need a damn good reason.
One option is citing a breakdown in the doctor-patient relationship, but that's a whole ordeal. You have to file a formal grievance through some paperwork at Medicare, explain what went down, and then a special commission actually goes out to visit the doctor to investigate the conflict before they decide if I'm allowed to leave.
There’s more info on how that works here:
So, if I want to switch OB-GYNs just because I feel like it—you know, exercising my right to choose—I have to be seeing them for at least a year first. Basically, if I’ve been with my current doctor since April 1st, 2009, I can’t pull the trigger on a move until after April 1st, 2010. Just a standard "free choice" switch.
Now, there is a loophole if I've been there for less than a year, but you need a damn good reason.
One option is citing a breakdown in the doctor-patient relationship, but that's a whole ordeal. You have to file a formal grievance through some paperwork at Medicare, explain what went down, and then a special commission actually goes out to visit the doctor to investigate the conflict before they decide if I'm allowed to leave.
There’s more info on how that works here: