Oct 13, 2019, 7:44 PM

@Auspice If I were in your area I would without fail. Unfortunately I live in Arkansas, not a land known for a glut of MUSHers.

Three things tend to get doctors to change their tune on mental health. There is a lot of things I could ask to customize this advice for you, but these are almost always applicable.

  1. 'Have you used the DSM-5 to evaluate what I've been telling you my symptoms are? Are you trained in the DSM-5? If not, can I been seen by someone who is?'
    The DSM-5 is the diagnostic criteria for mental disorders, fifth edition. The one currently in use everywhere, and the one off which all doctors have to demonstrate a patient's medical needs.

  2. 'I've reported my symptoms to you and stated the care I'm seeking. You've refused to provide me help for what I am seeking help with. I would like you to put your refusal into writing, if you're really going to tell me no again.'
    By putting it in writing, a doctor risks malpractice if your situation is ever reviewed. They know that. Many fold when this comes up, but a few will get erratic. If they get erratic, MAYBE they were not a good person to be seeing in the first place. I realize you may not have a choice with your insurance situation, whatever it is.

  3. 'This condition is threatening my ability to do my work. I've spoken with an attorney who handles disability claims, and I will need a copy of all medical records you have on file along with your choice not to treat me. If I can manage to keep my job, great, but if I lose it because of this I need full documentation.'
    Attorneys who handle such claims pro-bono can be found in every state. They do indeed require your full medical records related to the condition you're seeking disability for, so this is an accurate description of your situation. Saying you've spoken to one isn't accurate as of today, but you could easily fix that.

I sincerely wish you luck and hope you get the care you need.