How do I deal with my HMO when I need treatment for lymphedema?
Hopefully your primary doctor is familiar with lymphedema and can justify and coordinate an authorization for you. Ideally, the lymphedema therapist needs to submit to your physician a customized, detailed treatment plan, including information about why and how the treatment works, emphasizing the concern and possible complications if lymphedema is left untreated or under treated. It sometimes helps to add a photograph of the affected and non-affected limb, as well. If treatment is refused, advise your HMO that you will contact your attorney. It works! Q: I have had secondary lymphedema of unknown origin for about four years. I am a 57 year old male and wear 20-30 mm/hg knee high compression stockings on both legs. Usually there is no obvious swelling noted upon awakening. I also have gout in my right foot. Although I have never had an acute attack of gout, my right leg became swollen about 20 years ago (to the extent that the spaces between my toes closed up). I take 500 mg of Benemid
