What does HMO stand for? This is actually a variation of the phrase, "HEY MOE." Its roots go back to a concept pioneered by Moe of the Three Stooges, who discovered that a patient could be made to forget about the pain in his foot if he was poked hard enough in the eyes. I just joined an HMO. How difficult will it be to choose the doctor I want? Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents. Your insurer will provide you with a book listing all the doctors in the plan. These doctors basically fall into two categories -- those who are no longer accepting new patients, and those who will see you but are no longer participating in the plan. But don't worry; the remaining doctor who is still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office just a half-day's drive away, and a diploma from a Third World country. Do all diagnostic procedures require pre- certification? No. Only those you need. Can I get coverage for my preexisting conditions? Certainly, as long as they don't require any treatment. What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine? You'll need to find alternative forms of payment. My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name brand. I tried the Generic medication, but it gave me a stomach ache. What should I do? Poke yourself in the eye. What if I'm away from home and I get sick? You really shouldn't do that. I think I need to see a specialist, but my doctor insists he can handle my problem. Can a general practitioner really perform a heart transplant right in his office? Hard to say, but considering that all you're risking is the $20 co-payment, there's no harm in giving him a shot at it. Will health care be different in the next century? No. But if you call right now, you might get an appointment by then.