Monday, January 19, 2009

Economic Triage

I am borrowing this picture from a newspaper article that talked about something I haven't really seen in print as much as I would expect, which is patients having to not see a doctor because of cost or insurance problems.

Patients canceling, re-scheduling or failing to appear for appointments should not surprise anyone in a full year of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression with no end in sight.

This article touches on some of the decision-making folks have to face, and also some approaches and resources to stay as healthy as possible.

Certainly, if cost is a problem with medications we are prescribing or tests that we order, do not hesitate to ask. (Believe me, you may find it slightly embarrassing, but you're far from alone.).

If you need to re-schedule a physical or visit due to financial problems, just give us a call in advance. If you are unsure whether this is prudent, it's okay to ask.

We want to see you as often as is in keeping with good preventive health care and treatment of emergencies or with chronic medical conditions. However, the world is presently far from perfect, so let us know if you are having difficulties.

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