[Shebo]

Thank you all for the replies.

Dale, I'm not sure that it is an insurance issue. However, sometimes I am clueless. With my insurance, I can see whomever I want.

The physicians group that this specialist belongs to has a lot of rules to just get an appointment. The orthopedic surgeon's office (referring doctor) said that sometimes it is nearly impossible and that they have "weird rules".

Judy, thanks for the info on Dr. Regan. I would at least like to hear what he has to say.

Mark, I agree. He is the leading thoracic back surgeon in the area which is disappointing. I have never heard of such a policy. I don't understand what a surgery that was done a year ago by another physician has to do with what is going on now.

Theresa, thank you so much for the info. I will check these out.