Question:
now what gatekeeper 2

I asked a question earlier today and was not clear enough. My HMO (Cigna) has a gatekeeper (Seaview IPA). The gatekeeper has denied my PCP's request to see the surgeon that I want (Dr. anthone) Dr. Anthone and USC, however ARE in the Cigna network - but they are not in Seaview IPA's network. There are Cigna PCP's that I could change to who are in the same IPA as Dr. Anthone. Should I switch to one of them for my PCP, or is it easier to appeal the gatekeeper decision? Ellen    — Ellen B. (posted on June 26, 2000)

June 27, 2000
Ellen, if you really want to use Dr. Anthone then I would tell your pcp the predictiment you are in and then get him to tell you of other good pcp's you could go to for the surgery. I have Aetna HMO and they have a form called a non-participating referral form, so I can go to someone he recommends instead of who the ins say to go too!! If you get your pcp to complain maybe they will let it slide.
   — [Anonymous]