Opinion: Insurance companies are forcing psychiatrists like me to stop accepting their coverage

“I’m sorry, but I’m unable to take on new patients at this time.”

I’ve said that line hundreds of times in the 15 years since I started my solo private practice in psychiatry. I feel terrible each time I say it. Someone on the other end of the phone is suffering and has taken the difficult step to call for help — probably multiple calls, given the longstanding shortage of psychiatrists — and yet I added to their hopelessness.

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