relocation, insurance, & doctors

[Guest guest]

Our family is possibly considering moving to another state (not

because we have a hurricane that will be a direct hit to us tonight -

lol). The biggest part about moving that scares me is finding good

doctors for and what kind of medical insurance we will have

to cover his expenses, especially if pre-existing conditions will not

be covered. I know some of you have relocated & had to deal with

these issues.

The things I am worried about are:

finding a good pediatrician, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, and

orthopedic doctor (preferably who are knowledgeable in RSS);

finding someone who can take care of his orthodontic/dental needs

(having a tough time with this here in FL too);

being near a major hospital that can handle his needs;

coverage of growth hormone & Lupron in addition to a lot of other meds;

coverage of durable medical equipment, such as his feeding pump, g-

tube kit, and formula;

being in a school district who can handle 's needs

We currently have an HMO insurance which covers most of 's

medical needs, and we have never been eligible for Medicaid or any

other assistance programs, despite all of 's issues. I'd

appreciate any stories you have to share about relocating & dealing

with a new insurance company.

Also, we are leaning towards moving to NC, possibly near the

Charlotte area. Anyone on the listserve from that area with good

recommendations for doctors/hospitals? Or, do you live in a place

(any state) which you would highly recommend, because of the medical

care your child receives in addition to being in a great school

district? Those are the biggest factors in our decision. We are

considering moving to take advantage of the equity in our house, as

home prices have skyrocketed here in Florida, but we aren't in a big

rush. Hopefully this hurricane won't hurt the equity in our

house... Actually, I am not too worried, as it is only a category 1,

but we will have some severe weather (already experiencing this).

Kim C.