Otis

I need advice. I am 48 years old; I have been an alcoholic for 32 years. 2 years ago my son killed himself, after which my wife and I attended a few meetings with a psychologist. The psychologist after having heard all about me, my history recognized symptoms that I was describing and recommended intensive outpatient treatment for the alcoholism and seeing a psychiatrist for other symptoms that she thought that a Psychiatrist would be able to help me with. I have been off and on with AA ever since, and I am ready to admit that I need to do what she suggested. My question for medical professionals, is how? I have medical insurance, do I go to my MD and spill my guts and ask for referrals? Do I go straight to a psychiatrist? Will my employer be told about all of this? This is why I have never sought treatment before. Please help...
Rick / Otis

nandm

Welcome to the mental health forum.

We are not allowed to post medical advice but from what I read that is not what you are asking for.

There is a patient doctor confidentiality law as well as HIPPA laws that protect you. Basically it means that your doctor/psychiatrist can not give out information on you. You can contact a mental heath professional on your own without going through your general practitioner.

There are many types of medical people that can help treat mental illness':
Psychiatrist (can prescribe medication as well as provide therapy)
Psychologist (can not prescribe meds but do provide therapy)
Nurse practitioner (Can prescribe medications and provide therapy)
Social worker (can not prescribe meds but can provide therapy)
Therapist (Can provide therapy)

Depending on what you are experiencing you will want to try and find someone who will meet your needs. If you feel you may need medication then a good choice would be a nurse practitioner or psychiatrist. There are times when medications are not needed to treat the problem or a short course might be needed. Only a qualified medical practitioner can decide that.

You are concerned about your work finding out. The privacy laws would also apply to insurance companies so they would have no reason to notify your work place.

I hope something here helps you.

Otis

This is good information. Thank you!
Rick / Otis

Otis

"You can contact a mental heath professional on your own without going through your general practitioner."

Does the same hold true about the intensive outpatient treatment for alcoholism?

nandm

I believe it does as well. You can always contact a treatment center to be sure.

Otis

Thank you!
Your advice has been very helpfull!
Rick / Otis

historyteach

If you are going to be out of work for an extended time,
(more than 5 days),
The workplace does have a right to know why.
I know from experience.
The doctor must fill out a form stating why you are out of work.
HIPPA is *not* that great for protection in the workplace, sadly.
(Although they *say* it cannot be used against you... )

Shalom!

Carol Star

I had an addiction therapist. I also attend AA and Alanon.

justanothrdrunk

Wouldn't hurt to call your ins. company too. They can tell you about whatever red-tape or hoops (referrals, prior authorization for medical necessity, etc.) you need to jump through to get the treatment covered. They can also get you contact information for all the treatment centers in your area.

Otis

Thank you everyone for your advice! I'm still thinking about this. I have other questions that bring up in appropriate threads.
Rick /Otis

Spiritual Seeker

Don't waste any more days...get the help you need.

If you need help to figure things out ... ask a family member to help you.