Let’s Insure Our Nation’s Children
July 29, 2007
The U.S. Senate is attempting to pass a bill that would provide health care for the nation’s poorest children. The House soon will address this matter. Once again, politicians on both sides are descending into partisan rhetoric over an issue that could mean life or death for some children. In case you saw my earlier post, here is an updated version.
Sphere: Related ContentSave Money, Time in Search for Good Health Care (Part Two)
July 25, 2007
By Jacqueline L. Jones
Last week we covered how to save time finding a medical professional to treat your chronic illness. This week we’ll cover how to pay for the services.
If you have health insurance, you will, of course, prefer someone covered by your plan. If the provider you prefer is not in your insurance company’s network, look into these options. The best one for you is that the medical professional agree to join your insurance company’s network. Barring that, for a problem that requires multiple visits, such as physical therapy, an out-of-network provider may agree to charge you only your regular co-pay amount and file the insurance claims so they go toward your deductible.
Another option is alternative payment plans, such as paying in installments. Maybe you could even barter services.
Keep in mind that insurance companies are covering a broader range of services than they have in the past. Check with your insurance company to see if some of these other services, such as those of Certified Nutritionists, are covered, which will reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
And look into other ways to save money on health care. You may be able to deduct some of your medical expenses on your income taxes. If you qualify, consider opening a flexible spending account or medical savings account.
When this series continues next week, we’ll cover how to safely and legally use the services of an alternative provider.
Fatima Hyder edited this post.
Sphere: Related ContentSave Money, Time in Search for Good Health Care (Part One)
July 18, 2007
Finding a professional who understands chronic illness can be one of your greatest health care expenses. You may be able to save time and money by contacting a local health food store owner for leads.
Sphere: Related ContentChronic Fatigue Finally Gets Respect
July 18, 2007
Even though funding for research on chronic fatigue syndrome (C.F.S.) has not been a high priority, new findings released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tie the illness to genetic abnormalities. This announcement comes with the announcement of a $6 million awareness campaign.
Sphere: Related ContentHead of CDC Agrees: Change Needed in U.S. Medical Education
July 16, 2007
In my July 11 post, I suggested that the majority of physicians in this country are trained to treat acute but not chronic diseases nor to prevent them.
On Saturday, July 14, Dr. Julie Gerberding, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told reporters at a meeting of the American Veterinary Medical Association that the United States needs to begin health care reform with a change in medical school education. Medical schools should teach disease prevention and offer cooperative training of doctors, nurses, veterinarians, pharmacists and dentists.
Sphere: Related ContentProduct, Not Delivery, Is the Greater Issue
July 11, 2007
Despite continuing discussions about delivery of health care in the United States, many people with chronic illnesses can attest to the fact that the system does not adequately meet their needs. Some people have opted out of the system altogether. Although that strategy sometimes can be dangerous, I understand the frustration of those who pursue it.
Sphere: Related ContentYou, the Real Expert
July 4, 2007
You know how you feel. No academic degree can replace personal experience with chronic health issues.
