As a physician and a retired medical group president and medical insurance executive, Bob Sheff thought he knew everything about the health care system. Then he became a patient himself and found out firsthand just how intimidating, confusing, and downright scary it can be to face the rules, regulations, and physician attitudes that now define America's medical care culture. The result of his experiences is this useful guide to navigating every aspect of what Dr. Sheff calls our messed-up medical system. His compassionate, easy-to-understand text shows you how to become your own medical advocate and get the kind of care you deserve, when you want it, from whom you want it, and where you want it-no matter what your insurance company says. The Medical Mentor offers rare insider information about selecting and handling insurance companies; hospital practices that can put you in jeopardy; how to protect your health in the doctor's office and your life in the hospital or a special-care facility; and how to know which sources (including medical web sites) to trust and which not to trust. This indispensable guide provides all the information you need to know before you need to use it.