Insurance Based Private Practice Psychiatry

[Indodo]

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Hi,

So I have read a few threads about private practice psychiatry and I am trying to start one in the evenings on my own. However, cash only would probably be difficult as I really don't know that many people and I wouldn't know where to start. I have gotten contracts from a couple of insurances and medicare although I am hesitant regaring medicare.

A few questions:

1) Answering service. Is google voice okay or do I need something more substantial? If so what is a cost effective solution?
2) Coverage. Insurance contracts ask that there is coverage provided. I don't really know a lot of psychiatrists other than those in the county system. How did people find coverage when they started?
3) Rates: Some of these rates are lower than medicare...is this normal?

Thanks

 

[sunlioness]

When I was solo, I was available 24/7 for emergencies via a cell phone bought for that purpose. I didn't like it. Not because it rang a lot --it actually didn't, but because I knew I was tied to it. When I went out of town, I sometimes brought the phone with me and covered myself. Though I also became friendly with other solo psychiatrists in the area and we would cover for each other. It helped that I was still in the area where I'd trained and knew some folks.

 

[Indodo]

Did the insurance companies ask you to provide names of people that would cover you?

 

[sunlioness]

No, they didn't that I recall anyway.

 

[michaelrack]

Did the insurance companies ask you to provide names of people that would cover you?

a few do; most don't. (this is for standard insurance companies, I am not sure about mental health carve outs)

 

[michaelrack]

Hi,

3) Rates: Some of these rates are lower than medicare...is this normal?

many psychiatrists don't even accept medicare. don't take any rates lower than medicare.

 

[Indodo]

a few do; most don't. (this is for standard insurance companies, I am not sure about mental health carve outs)

Well, I don't really have anyone to cover for me. I am only going to see patients for 4-8 hours a week for right now as I am still working full time in a CMHC.