A Guide For the Newly Uninsured

February 26, 2009 · Posted in Shopping, austerity, common sense, family, health, retail

Welcome back!

As the economy continues to struggle the cost of living is rising for Americans. Many Americans are so strapped for cash that they are having to pick and choose which bills to pay. Lots of Americans do have health insurance through work and some purchase health insurance on their own as well. If you are one of the many Americans who is losing or has lost their health insurance recently, don’t panic. Welcome to the club!

Not having health insurance is not the end of the world if you are healthy. The first thing to do is not to panic. Millions of Americans go without health insurance every year. To survive without it is possible. here are a few tips that I as an uninsured individual live by.

Assess when you really NEED to see a doctor

If you have a cold or the flu there really isn’t a need to see a doctor. A doctor should not prescribe any antibiotics for these issues. Let the body naturally fight it off. Over the counter fever reducer and cold medication should do the trick. To keep from spreading illnesses like these, try to stay contained to one bedroom if possible. Make sure to not let others handle used tissues. Also keep some bleach wipes near the toilet, so that you can wipe the handle when you are done, do the same with door knobs and phones.

The Drug Store and the Pharmacist

For example if you have a stomach ache, try Pepto or Amoduim. These work wonders and cost only a fraction of what the trip to the doctors would. Also if you are going to a store that has a pharmacy, do not be afraid to ask the pharmacist medical questions. They can usually offer sound medical advice. They can usually help you choose the right drug to help you as well. They can also inform you of what illnesses are going around, and tell you the best way to treat it.

When it is Time to See the Doctor

Sometimes, you must go to the doctor. I usually throw in the towel when I have a cold or flu that won’t go away. Another red flag that it’s doctor time, is when someone has a really high fever that will not go away. A high fever is usually a warning sign of infection. Usually when symptoms get worse or do not fade, it is time to see the doctor.

If you do not have a regular doctor, I recommend going to an immediate care center. These facilities have a doctor on staff, and the bill is much more manageable than the emergency room. If you do have a regular doctor, when you are scheduling an appointment let the receptionist know that you do not have insurance. Usually when you let your doctor know ahead of time, they can work out a payment plan. They also can try to keep unnecessary procedures and tests to a minimum.

I am not a medical professional so please use common sense when taking my advice. Please do not sue me if you arm falls off cause you did not go to the doctor. The best thing you can keep yourself healthy. Exercise, eat right and get plenty of sleep. Try to keep unhealthy habits to a minimum. Best of luck to you all!

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