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Staying
healthy in a tough economy
Publisher's Note: The failure of Part D is
illustrated in this story describing the
continuing challenge of expensive
prescription medicines. That is why,
in addition to steps mentioned here,
TodaysSeniorsNetwork.com is committed to
allowing U.S. Citizens access to safe,
affordable medicines from Tier One
countries.
Newswise — With the economy in a state of
decline, it is difficult for many Americans
to afford health care.
Visits to doctors are down 10 percent to 15
percent and many individuals are not taking
their medicines as prescribed. However,
there are certain measures that can be taken
to lessen the burden while facing tough
economic times.
While many individuals are dealing with
cutbacks, it is important that health care
remain a top priority, says A. Mark Fendrick,
M.D., professor of internal medicine at the
University of Michigan Medical School and
professor of health management and policy at
the U-M School of Public Health.
Approximately one in nine individuals is
cutting pills, taking them every other day
or doing something the doctor did not
recommend.
Fendrick
says, “Cutting back on health care without
consulting your clinician is a very risky
decision.
"It
may not only have an impact on your health,
but also have a worsening economic
consequence that will lead to greater costs
down the road when minor health concerns
become major health issues.”
Fendrick suggests that people continue to
follow up with their recommended screenings
and immunizations and consult their
clinicians before cutting back on health
care.
Although these preventative measures may
cost you now, they are among the most
important investments you can make to
protect your health and may save you money
in the long run.
There are affordable programs available to
help individuals facing economic
difficulties. Ask your doctor’s office or
search online for information about
decreasing or eliminating the costs of
health insurance and prescription
medications.
During an economic crisis, individuals with
and without insurance tend to use the
emergency room as a form of primary care.
However, doing so could take a spot from
someone who truly needs emergency care,
while also compromising your own care.
“You should really think about going to your
primary care physician who knows your
medical history, coordinates your follow up
care and interacts with other doctors to
make sure you’re getting the highest quality
care possible at the lowest cost,” says
Fendrick.
While the economy is forcing individuals to
make difficult choices Fendrick puts it in
perspective: “Remember your health is your
most important asset, not your money.”
Tips for healthy health care spending:
1. Continue to adopt healthy lifestyles:
diet and exercise can help stave off many
diseases.
2. Ask your doctor if prescription
medications are available in generic forms.
3. Keep up-to-date with recommended
screening tests, such as mammograms,
colonoscopies or immunizations.
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