Promise 'em Everthing, Give 'em Nothing

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This National Psychologist article on HMO's lack of responsiveness to patient's needs, or health, does not take into account that managed-care companies are now keeping the biggest share of the profits while forcing their health care providers into a potential "conflict of interest".

Doctors often have to decide between helping the patient or, giving up their year-end bonuses for not keeping costs down. Health care providers also must be aware of the risk of losing their jobs if they push too hard for medical treatments deemed "unnecessary" by executives who should not be making those decisions.

This is not an effective way to practice good medicine or mental health care because doctors, whether a psychologist or a physician, should never have to decide between bonuses and treating a patient.

The most important aspect of this problem is that "damaged-care" organizations are extremely adept in the 'marketing phase', convincing employers how they will save money and promising the best of medical and mental health care, while failing to deliver such promises during the 'service phase' of their contracts.

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