TraciG,

In my case, I was lucky because my insurance allows me to self-refer to a specialist. Since Dr. T at Scripps La Jolla was "in network", I was able to call directly and set-up an initial consultation appointment, without having go to through any of my other doctors. Then once my insurance gave preapproval, I was also able to schedule my appointments for the actual RT, wtihout having to go through any other levels of doctors.

If you are going to try and use insurance, you need to know why your policy's requirements are, because some require referals to see a specialist.

Gweneth

TraciG:

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Hello.
I have had DC for almost 2 years. I immediate saw my Dr. then my orthopedist, then a hand surgeon specialist. The specialist is the one who did the final diagnosis. She said, it will take years for the disease to progress.. lol Well, its taking a short time, and the nodules I have are getting larger.
I can flatten my hand, and have no issues with fingers yet. SO, this is where my Q comes in.

I live in Update NY, and no one offers RT here. I have talked to another hand specialist, who said I have to wait until it gets worse, then have surgery. That is not an answer.. If I have an option now, to slow the progression before it gets bad, why wouldn't that be an option?
So.. I have done reading, and research, and have seen that the Virgina Commonwealth University does this RT procedure.


If anyone has gone about having any kind of therapy in another state (or country).. how do you go about getting this setup? Just make a phone call?

Traci,

Like many on here I'm convinced Prof Seegenschmiedt is the best option if that arrangement will work for you.

Otherwise, you can email Dr. Elisabeth Weiss direct at Virginia Commonwealth University and she will answer you to discuss arrangements. She was very prompt and courteous in dealing with me (I ended up treating elsewhere). I've seen a number of folks who had RT through VCU and all were very pleased.

My insurance did not cover RT and my appeals were unsuccessful.