NY state and the P.R.O.S. initiative.

Have you heard that the mental health department of NY has initiated PROS? It is basically a way in that mental health providers can bill federal medicaid funds and lower its own deficit. Speaking as a consumer of mental health services, I know that this initiative first of all limits my choice of providers. You see, they want to make it one stop shopping. In order for me to see a doctor at a clinc to get the meds I need to function(and I do quite well on them) I must also see their therapist regardless if I actually need one or even if I don't. I have friends who have had to switch therapists with whom they have built up that all to important relationship for years. They had to switch as it wasn't "one stop shopping". Also I am an active member of a social club serving the mentally ill and they are going PROS in order to get the funding they need to function. The problem here is that many of our activities are not going to be "bill-able" under PROS. and they are not going to offer them if they aren't going to be paid for them. I, like many others, need socialization and not "therapy" sessions. If you are a consumer or have the ability to speak up for those who can't in NY then write or call the governor. The federal government really doesn't need NYs woes.

Hi,

I appreciate your comments and concerns, but I'd like to leave such legal situations out of the core discussions here. I do'nt know the ins-and-outs of the new medical bill that has been put forward by the US government, but it's not for us to start a revolution for/against it here.

Sorry jspj1971 (but I do appreciate your concern).

Take care,
Kevin