Managing Health Care in Tough Time

In this hard time, many people find that health care is one of the expenses that they are cutting down to make ends meet.  We all know that if we step foot in a doctor’s office, then soon the bill will come.

Nowadays, many new clinics and offices even want you to establish a “get to know your doctor” as your first appointment, where you will have an actual conversation but no physical checkup.  Personally, I think it is a waste of time, and it is just another way for the doctor to charge my insurance company.

So how do people without health insurance getting check-ups?  According to a new survey from the American Heart Association (AHA), 57% of people are affected in caring for their health.  These impacts are heavily taxed on young adults and low income family.

Take a Look at These Staggering Statistics

• 10% of Americans stopped the use of medicines for chronic conditions altogether
• 32% skipped some type of preventive care
• 22% have cut out on routine dental cleaning
• 18% stopped routine health procedure such as mammogram or annual physical checkup
• 13% skipped flu shot

What You Can Do to Help Yourself

• Do everything and anything you can to implement preventive care into your life, such as brushing your teeth, and flossing after meals.
• Incorporate healthy nutritious foods into your daily intake by mean of eating more fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly by walking, bike riding, roller skating or swimming

Look for Help at These Locations

• Visit your local U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for non-emergency needs such as immunizations, TB test, and checkup.
• Check out teaching Universities and hospitals in your area to get dental cleaning or checkups.
• Tap into organizations such as churches, supermarkets, and drugstores for free screening tests on blood pressure.
• Many clinics and hospitals offer other services for free such as diabetes, kidney disease, and skin cancer tests.  You can find this information in your local newspapers, and put them to good use.
• Save money on medication costs by asking for generic brands after discussing with your doctors.
• Open up the communication line with your doctor to talk about your financial burdens, and ask for install payment options.

As many people are out of jobs and facing foreclosure or bankruptcy, health care is far from their thoughts.  However, you can cut down on expenses by using available resources.  Also, taking preventive care to safeguard your health should always be on your priority list!