Need Rec for ADHD Dr. in District Who Takes Medicaid

[Anonymous]

Hi. My son was recently diagnosed with quite severe ADHD. We manage him the best we can but do want to look into meds, mostly because of his aggression and trouble with learning. It is getting to be very difficult for us as a family. I think we need to find a child psychiatrist or good pediatrician who knows ADHD but we just moved into DC and also I was just laid off. Until I find a new job, the kids are covered by Medicaid. Does anyone know of a Dr. in the District who takes Medicaid who has expertise in ADHD and meds?? I would really like to have my son seen as soon as possible.

He mostly holds it together at school, but really struggles with impulsivity and inattention. With his older sister and us, he can be pretty violent.

Thanks for any advice!!

--Heather

[Anonymous]

Children’s
Maybe Georgetown hospital
Neither will be able to see you quickly

[Anonymous]

you might have better luck finding a new pediatrician who takes Medicaid and having the ped prescribe the ADHD meds

[Anonymous]

OP - I would transfer your kids to Children's Pediatricians and Associates.

It's a big, well-regarded practice that is affiliated with Children's Hospital. They take Medicaid. They may not be willing to prescribe medication for severe ADHD, but because of their affiliation with Children's they can refer you directly and can often get you in with the specialists sooner than you can on your own.

We do not have Medicaid but have used this practice since my children were infants. One has SN and the other does not.

[Anonymous]

OP - Make sure you apply for HSCSN. You will get better than average medicaid benefits, and the child can keep that after you get a job.

https://www.hschealth.org/health-plan

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP - Make sure you apply for HSCSN. You will get better than average medicaid benefits, and the child can keep that after you get a job.

https://www.hschealth.org/health-plan

To get HSCSN, you will need to get SSI for your child first. https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply-child.html

[Anonymous]

Thanks, everyone, for this info. This is all new to me and the Medicaid system is also a mystery. I think we will need a lot of patience.

[Anonymous]

I would not think that you would have to wait that long. Going to Children's Ped.s dept is a great idea. They can help you get into all sorts of dr.s at CNMC.

Advice: Call for cancellations every day - or several times a week at least. It is a busy time of year probably due to school forms that Peds fill out but you may get lucky if you are persistent and make friends with the scheduling people. I have had daily very courteous calling and sympathy stories work well - advocate advocate. It is fatiguing but you can do it!

We are in the same boat with the ADHD etc.

[Anonymous]

Thanks so much for the advice. Just when I think we have some moments of calm from my DS, he starts hitting us again at the slightest provocation--pulling our arm hairs is his new favorite way to express his frustration. Also digging his nails into my arms. Other times, he is super loving and fun. Crazy roller-coaster!

[Anonymous]

Mary's Center in Petworth used to have a child psychiatrist part time who took Medicaid.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Mary's Center in Petworth used to have a child psychiatrist part time who took Medicaid.

Sorry, they still might. I just don't work with them anymore as I accepted a new position in a different jurisdiction.