Kaiser, Don't Deny
Patients need access to timely and consistent mental health services
Patient Stories
It seems Kaiser turns a deaf ear
Published Friday, May 3, 2019I had heard from friends about long delays and poor access to mental health services at Kaiser. I was referred to an outside agency for grief counseling after the death of my younger sister. I requested two to three sessions for short term help. After I was subjected to a 10-minute and two 45-minute telephone “intake” interviews, I was they couldn’t help me. They recommended I go to hospice for help. They further insulted me by suggesting I try one of their “drop-in” grief groups — there was no current openings, but they said I should check back in three or four months! I registered complaint with member services and went to hospice, where I received help immediately.
Is this what I pay monthly premiums for? The time spent on “intake interviews” would have been better used in counselingMy heart goes out to those in dire need, as it seems Kaiser turns a deaf ear with a totally inadequate mental health department.
Paula
San Rafael