Questions about insurance and crappy diagnosis, etc.

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone can give me a bit of info (since I have much better luck on message boards than I do trying to go directly to any source). ; )

To the point, I had not been to a doctor in several years.  I recently went to a gynecologist (was actually a NP) and then she referred me on to an IM doc.  They both ignored what I really wanted to focus on (hormones - perimenopausal and a slew of what I discovered to be thyroid symptoms I had been having for 12 years or so).  The NP wanted me to have invasive testing beyond the norm and the IM doc (after no more than idle chit-chat) after asking me how I feel on typical days said I am probably bipolar (after I answered the question by saying I tend to feel kind of sluggish or my adrenaline is pumping).  I reacted by scrunching my eyebrows (like, huh??) and he totally started reacting and going down a weird path.  The whole thing felt awful by the time I left.  It seemed as if he thought I was irritated as if he was telling me I was nuts, and the whole thing got strange.  Apparently, he doesn't realize people might look odd when they feel their doctor is going in the wrong direction because we want actual help.  It doesn't help if they diagnose us wrong. 

Anyway, it is hard to keep this brief and give enough info, but I had written "anxiety" as part of my issue on the paperwork ... so rather than thinking the adrenaline had to do with the anxiety he went with bipolar.  (No wonder so many people have bipolar listed in their PMH in reports I type.)  Eventually, I mentioned I had a series of close and upsetting deaths and that I had spent several days with my mom while she was dying less than 3 months before, but he didn't seem to get it.  Anyway, he told me I should see a psychiatrist.  When I asked at the end of the appointment if I could get something to take as needed for the anxiety, as I had recently felt on the verge of a panic attack during work a couple times in the week prior, he said he doesn't do that sort of thing.  - - He never did ask what my thyroid-type symptoms were. 

So, I ended up with bills and no help for the things I feel may be treatable.  I don't have a problem with psychiatrists (so I could at least get something for anxiety), but my deductible has to be met first and then only covers 50% anyway.  I can't afford it right now.

I'm sorry this is so long.  To get to my actual questions:  On a paper the IM gave me, it had "mood disorder" in the diagnosis spot.  I feel that is inaccurate and don't want it in my records.  (Not that it is anything to be ashamed of ... but incorrect.)  Is there anything I can do about that?  Also, should I ask for a copy of my records?  I only went there once but will not go there again.

- And, my insurance coveres GYN exams, etc. once a year, but it looks like I am being charged for the actual lab testing part of the smear.  Is that correct?  (Like they are paying for her taking the smear but not checking it).  And, it looks like my insurance allows for a certain amount for the exams (however it was coded) but the facility charges more and I am being charged the difference.  Should I have to pay the over-the-top amount when they participate with my insurance company?  - I had not been to a doctor in so long, I can't remember how that all works.

Again, sorry so long.  Any basic information/thoughts on this will be appreciated.  *I realize any info here is not a replacement for speaking with my insurance company, etc.  ; )  - Thank you!  : )