DEAR DR. GOTT: I recently read the letter regarding "wrong coding" on medical-insurance claims. In June 2004, my husband went to a local ENT to remove earwax that was affecting his hearing. You can imagine my surprise when I received a bill for $913. I called the office and was told, "Because the instrument used in the cleaning process is considered a surgical instrument, the procedure is considered to be surgery."

The insurance company paid nothing, and I had to pay $223. Even that amount is ridiculous for removing earwax. Why do insurance companies allow such practices? I don't consider this a rip-off. I think it is outright thievery. Shame on those unethical doctors!

DEAR READER: I am 100 percent behind you. Thievery is a modest description of this rip-off, which might be better termed inordinate greed.

You were billed more than $900 for a simple procedure for which I ordinarily charge $60. This is not to say that every physician would charge no more than $60, but your doctor's fee is excessive.

Before my mailbox sags with red-hot letters from angry doctors, let me assure you physicians that I am well aware of the current reimbursement schedules, malpractice issues, etc., after having had a solo medical practice for more than 40 years. Believe me, I've been there, done that.

Yet I agree with the writer and confirm that this lady has every right to complain. We should be ashamed, fellow physicians, for disregarding common-sense issues.

DEAR DR. GOTT: Regarding the no-flour, no-sugar diet, which we have used many times since first reading about it, is there any chance of your devoting a column or newsletter to the various menus/substitutes/food ideas readers have used or can contribute? This might be an additional and invaluable aid. (For instance, in place of rice/potatoes/pasta, we often substitute bulgur wheat in several forms and with several sauces; spaghetti squash in place of spaghetti, etc.). Sugar and sweet ideas might be especially useful.

And last, as to the cake of soap in bed: Yes! It does work. Why, I have no idea. Since using the suggestion, I very rarely have cramps, and, when I do, they are very minor.

Again, thank you for your contribution to making life better.

DEAR READER: Many of your diet questions may have been answered in my recent book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," which is now on The New York Times best-seller list and is available at most bookstores (independent and chain). Or order directly from the publisher online at www.quilldriverbooks.com or by phone at 800-605-7176.

I am also asking readers to send me original no flour, no sugar recipes for a recipe book based on my diet. I will test them and pick the best to be published in the book. Everyone who submits a recipe that is put in the book will receive credit for his or her edible "invention." The top-five recipes in each category will also receive a free autographed copy. The categories will be Kids' Fun Foods, Snacks on the Go, Breakfast, Entrees, Side Dishes and Desserts.

Please send your recipes to No Flour, No Sugar Recipe Contest, c/o Dr. Gott, PO Box 416, Salisbury, CT 06068.