HMO Guide for Seniors - Office of the Patient Advocate - State of ...

47
Questions & Answers
Mom’s doctor prescribed
an antidepressant for her,
but it makes her too sleepy.
What can I do?
Help her explain the problem
to her doctor. See page
41 for questions she should
ask about her medicines.
Will my Medicare HMO
pay for me to go to any
psychologist?
No. You can only go to
psychologists who are
licensed by the state and
who are in the HMO’s
network.
things you can do
If You Want Mental Health Care Services
Ask your HMO what mental health care it pays
for and how to get services.
Some HMOs use independent services, called
behavioral health care services, to provide mental
health care.
Ask if you can get services without a referral from
your doctor.
Ask what you have to pay.
For information on mental health care, call
Mental Health America.
Mental Health Patients Have Rights
If you are put in the hospital without your consent,
forced to take medicine, or treated badly, call
Disability Rights California.
where to find help
Mental Health America
Information, advocacy, and referrals for mental
health services
1-800-969-6642 www.nmha.org
Disability Rights California
Legal help for people with mental health problems
1-800-390-7032 www.pai-ca.org