The main reason I waited so long was that I just didn’t trust the medical medical profession and didn’t feel like trying any more. Never mind that I gained some incredible insights into navigating the medical system during my previous trials. Never mind that my techniques were working toward the end of my last battle.

The other reason I waited was that we had been saving our tax refund for another purpose. I was determined not to spend it on anything else. Sometimes priorities need to change.

When I almost couldn’t move anymore, I asked a trusted friend about my options and hit the jackpot. A local nurse practitioner tested me for the one issue I never could get a doctor to explore, and she got to the root of the problem.

In just one month, some lingering issues I had learned to live with have almost disappeared. Imagine all the suffering I had experienced because I was carrying a grudge and I was trying to save money. I feel like wearing a “Kick Me” sign.

The next time you need medical care, don’t let anything stop you. You can’t do much in life without your health.

© 2008 – 2010, Unmasked Communications™. All rights reserved.

Chronic illness often affects several parts of the body. My aunt’s case was no exception. As each body system manifested its own crisis, the attending physician of the moment sent her to a hospital specializing in that area. I lost count of how many transfers she endured. Surely travel fatigue hastened her death.

This saga highlights the real health care debate in this country. While we read stories of people who lack access to care, my aunt had access to care that did not serve her needs, but the physicians were willing to serve because the government was willing to pay.

According to The World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. government, insurance companies, and individuals in this country spent an average of $6,096 on each person who had access to the system in 2004. Canada’s government-run universal system, in which most services are provided by private companies, spent $3,038. Canada ranked 30th in system performance among 191 nations in a 2000 WHO survey; the U.S. ranked 37th.

Though the reason for these disparities is unclear, one fact is certain: prevention and early intervention can save billions of dollars and countless lives. Florida Hospital in Orlando implemented a self-care program with a booklet and flow charts that instructed employees on how to prevent certain illnesses and when to seek professional help. The program reduced clinic and emergency room visits by $60,313 or $75.30 per person in five months.

Most health care plans in this country, even for those who have access, lack extensive coverage for prevention and early intervention. Equal access to a broken system is not the answer.

© 2007 – 2010, Unmasked Communications™. All rights reserved.