HMOs use primary care doctors as gatekeepers to limit access to more expensive specialists. Still, you can find doctors who will work the system to get you what you need. Ask patients, other doctors and nurses which doctors do this best. HMOs often have an appeals process that permits you to appeal its decisions. Every state has an insurance commissioner who can be your advocate in fighting for what you need.
Most doctors keep slots in their schedules for emergencies.
If you feel your situation is urgent, ask the receptionist for an emergency appointment. You'll never get that same cuddly feeling from an HMO that you got from your family doc, but you CAN get what you need. The Full Monty. It reminded me that my options are only limited by my imagination. I've been networking with friends inside and outside my current field, assessing my skills, and most of all, taking stock of my personal wants and desires.