It's not unique to America. Specialists are in high demand everywhere and seeing them means you have to pass through a screen of generalists who first rule out all the common explanations for your symptoms.
replyBut GP's point is otherwise true. It's just a job to them. They see dozens of sick people every day. There's no way to be empathetically engaged with all of them or really any of them and still be effective. It's not personal, and they aren't ignoring you. You're a bug report in their ticket system. Understand that and you'll be able to deal with the system more effectively.
If you have halfway decent insurance in the US you do not need a referral to see a specialist.
replyThe exception to this rule is if you are in an HMO like Kaiser which force you through "level one support" (your GP) or if the specialist is so busy they require a referral to screen out the social media schizos.
However, many (most?) specialists won't see you without a referral unless they are self pay.
replyWhether you need a referral typically depends on your insurance plan, not the doctor you want to see.
replyYes. They don't have time to deal with hypochondriacs who just show up. Unless you are an existing patient asking for followup, or have a referral, many will not schedule you or will maybe give you an appointent six months from now.
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