Managed care experiences of persons with disabilities

This study was designed to describe experiences of individuals with disabil ities in managed care organizations (MCOs). Sixteen individuals with select ed disabilities who received health care in a health maintenance organizati on (HMO) or a preferred provider organization (PPO) participated in open-en ded, qualitative interviews. They were asked a variety of questions about t heir experiences with primary care physicians and specalists for any disabi lity-related illnesses and secondary conditions. Participants were pleased with the low cost of doctors' visits, medication and preventive care, and t wo-thirds developed a good relationship with their primary care physicians. However, participants also reported difficulty meeting special needs such as referrals to specialists who were most expert, and obtaining medications not in the plan.