#who even with health insurance won't be covered for necessary care

[mrdragonageherself]

I hope whoever snitched on my man Luigi stubs their toe every other day for the rest of their life and that they are always sick but never sick enough to be able to use their health insurance.

[stimmingbabie]

My Take On Self DXing

Disclaimer: My definition of self diagnosing is putting in A LOT of time into researching, trying to get a professional diagnosis *first and foremost*, among other elements. Not just looking at the top 3 traits of a disorder and saying "that's me!", that is not recommended and I do not condone that! Please be safe <3

I'm making this post because I've gotten some comments here and there of people using my posts as a reason to self diagnose/suspect autism, BPD, etc (whatever else I post about). I do *not* condone using my posts as a tool for this, as this blog is all about my *personal* experiences with being neurodivergent. Everyone is so vastly different and I do not represent everyone with these disorders! However, as someone who has self diagnosed before getting professionally diagnosed (and still haven't been professionally diagnosed with them all!), I understand the need for an identity and an explanation for your experiences. So here's some reasons I support self diagnosing, some tips, and some warnings.

Why I support self diagnosing

Mental health care in certain locations are absolutely horrible. Where I live, mental health care is...very limited. The professionals in my area are trained in very few areas, mainly depression and anxiety, and are trained to do very specific types of therapies, medications etc. For example, in the ER I was given a xanax for a panic attack, and this worked wonders for me, however when going to a psychiatrist I was told they don't prescribe those on the off chance that someone will get addicted. Because of this, my anxiety has been overlooked and I've been given medications that did not work and has even given me a bad reaction. Needless to say, I stopped going to psych appointments. (I don't recommend this for everyone! This is just a personal experience).

Insurance isn't always an option. Without insurance, you will be paying out of pocket for evaluations, therapies and treatments. Even a diagnosis. An autism diagnosis here out of pocket is anywhere from $1k USD to $6k USD in most places for adults! That includes the two part evaluation and then having it on paper. I have what's called a pending diagnosis of autism, which means that I was given a basic screening (thankfully for free, but it costs $500 out of pocket on average here!), and the results were that I am very highly likely on the spectrum, but I can't afford to continue with the evaluation. So my health care team knows that I am autistic but will not put it on paper, therefore I can't get any accommodations with my insurance, and any accommodation that I need has to be listed for "anxiety", which my insurance doesn't see as a big enough problem in an adult to cover things for.

Being professionally diagnosed is a privilege. A lot of mental health professionals have a bias, and this is an unfortunate truth. Racism, sexism, classism, and even fatphobia play a huge part in how you're treated by the health care system, including mental health care. For example, if a healthy, average white cis man goes in and explains his symptoms and can afford to pay whether it be through insurance or out of pocket, he will be taken much more seriously than someone who is not any of the above.

Why I don't support certain self diagnosing disorders

A self diagnosis is not anywhere close to a substitution for a professional diagnosis. You will not get the proper therapy, treatment, or accommodations necessary by self diagnosing. You also won't be taken seriously by professionals if you walk into their office and say that you have a disorder, because their next question will be if you have documentation of the diagnosis. If you are suffering from a severe mental illness such as schizophrenia or borderline personality disorder, you will likely need treatment and therapy if at all possible. If you are able to get this, please do!! Do not suffer alone!!

Some disorders have overlapping symptoms...autism included. While I support self diagnosing autism to an extent, you have to realize that autism in a person who does not have high support needs will more often than not look very similar to ADHD, OCD etc etc. Autism being a spectrum can make it look like so many different things in so many different people. Someone with autism may be hyperverbal, able to read tone of voice and emotions with ease, and be outgoing, which are all traits that are not inherently apart of autism.

If you do not have *insert disorder that you self diagnosed*, you may be spreading misinformation. Many mental illnesses are already so stigmatized. Regardless of if YOU think that YOU have this disorder and that YOUR experiences are part of it, if you're wrong you may be adding to the stigma. For example, there are a lot of people who fake tourettes, dissociative identity disorder, etc. and this is very dangerous to people who actually suffer from these conditions. When self diagnosing please be mindful of others when you post about it publicly and be sure to specify that you are self diagnosed if you do! This is not meant to be mean or make you feel any less valid. Your experiences, regardless of your disorder or label, is 100% valid and you deserve to be taken seriously. But you have to realize that your words have impact on others.

"Tips" for self diagnosing

Don't! If you can easily get a professional diagnosis. See above points for why.

If you do, put in the research! This doesn't mean look up "autism spectrum disorder" on Google and look at the first 3 symptoms and decide that you resonate. Look up how it is professionally diagnosed, what the DSM-5 criteria is, and speak with/watch content creators, friends, family etc that have been diagnosed!

Take note of the different variations in different individuals. Do not watch one YouTube channel of a person with *insert disorder* and think that they represent the entire community. They do not. Not one single person represents an entire community, this goes for any, mental illnesses, physical illnesses, etc. If you know one person with autism you know one person with autism.

Research other conditions that are similar. You think you're autistic? Cool, research it as stated above! But don't forget to research ADHD, OCD, and other disorders that have overlapping symptoms! And yes, it is possible to have multiple, which is another reason why self diagnosing can be tricky.

ABOVE ALL ELSE: LISTEN TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN PROFESSIONALLY DIAGNOSED AND TO PROFESSIONALS!

There is no shame in telling someone, especially a therapist, that you think you have a disorder. What will likely happen is that the more you fight for yourself and your concerns the more you will be taken seriously and possibly given an opportunity to get a screening. The worst that will happen is that you'll self diagnose and get it wrong, but possibly be properly diagnosed! You know yourself better than anyone. Regardless of what label you have, you are valid, you are loved and you will be okay. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me! I'm here for you!

For transparency, this is my situation:

Autism - pending diagnosis, see above ADHD - diagnosed PTSD - diagnosed Dissociative identity disorder - diagnosed, previously self diagnosed Borderline personality disorder - sort of pending. was told by a therapist that it seems more likely that I have BPD than bipolar disorder, but it was never screened. self diagnosed Bipolar type 1 with psychosis - diagnosed, mixed beliefs from different professionals, personally undiagnosed Eating disorder - diagnosed (will not elaborate, am in recovery!)

[feuervogel]

Y'all, I gotta share some of my favorite experiences getting health care in Germany (where I currently live). I have public health insurance (about 10% of my income as a premium, as allowable by law; I'm freelance) and a private dental supplement that costs me 24.90 a month.

Went to the dentist for my first cleaning and exam since 2020. It would have been late 2022 I think. I have extreme bruxism and wear a bite guard so I don't break my teeth, and the one I had was just about worn through. (I got it from some mail-order thing with a subscription, so it was pretty cheap. It still cost like $150 in 2021. My first one came from my dentist around 2011, and it was dead.) I got x-rays, a cleaning with the water tool, not the scraper, and an exam. I told the dentist that I needed a new bite guard, and she very apologetically told me that it would cost 50-100 Euros because insurance didn't cover all of it. I just laughed and told her that the one I got from my dentist in the US cost me $600 after insurance (and insurance only paid anything because she suggested getting the neurologist to prescribe it to reduce my migraines so it would be kicked over to my medical insurance from my dental insurance). The entire visit cost me about 75 Euro, plus the 50 for the bite guard. My dental supplement picked up the cost of the visit. I got the cheaper one, which was a little thinner and barely lasted a year. When I went back for another cleaning after the bite guard had broken, I asked if I could get the thicker one this time, and I mentioned that I'd tried submitting it to my private supplemental insurance last time but they needed a diagnosis for it. So she added some codes on the bill that said I grind my teeth and it's medically necessary. When I submitted it this time, my dental supplement reimbursed about 90% of it, plus the entire cleaning fee (which was now about 150 Euro because the law that governs how much practices can charge for things changed).

I had to get my Mirena replaced. German insurance does not cover contraception at all (because they're a bunch of sexist fuckfaces), so I had to pay cash for the device and a separate appointment fee for the insertion. The Mirena cost me a whole 150 Euros. When I was a pharmacist at the health department (2007-09), we paid $450 a pop -- and that was with the public health discount. Regular retail was $1000 and up. Because it fucking hurts, I took the option of doing it under anaesthesia, which, of course, they don't pay for, because it's elective. Unless you have a lost IUD or some other weird thing going on, in which case they'll allow it. The GYN who inserted it cut the strings too short, so my GYN here put the "lost IUD" note on the referral slip. (The doctor at the ambulatory clinic must get a lot of "lost" IUDs, because he asked about it with a very knowing wink.) Without that magical note, the insertion would have run I think 450 Euro; I paid 150 iirc. Whereas in the US, I would have paid my specialist-office-visit copay, which was $35 the last time I went to a private GYN in the US, but it's probably much more now. But if I'd had to pay cash for the entire thing, it would have been thousands of dollars, so even with the bullshit sexism here, German uterus-havers are better of than Americans.

On the topic of gynecology: If you want a thin-prep Pap, you pay extra. Thin-prep is pretty much the standard in the US; in Germany it's unnecessary, and the ancient 3-swab method is good enough for you. If you're under 50, you have to pay for a mammogram. The only breast exam you can get until you're 50 is the one with the fingers and circles. There might be an exception if you're at high risk, but I'm not, so I haven't pursued it. All the mammograms I had in the US were normal, and I'll be 50 in uhhh 15 months, so I'll probably be fine. But given the extremely low (to my American ass) costs, I bet a mammogram would set me back like 250 Euros or something.

Germany won't pay for thin-prep Paps or contraception, but they will pay for absolute bullshit fake medicine (homeopathy).

When I pick up medications at the pharmacy, they cost me about 5 Euro. Whether it's 100 l-thyroxine tabs or a 10-day course of penicillin, they cost about 5 Euro.

Speaking of penicillin: I got stung by something on a Thursday evening, and it got infected. It was weirdly swollen and more itchy than a usual bug bite, but I ignored it, smeared cortisone on it, and hoped it would go away. When it wasn't improving at all on Sunday, I looked up how to get urgent care in Germany. (There's a cool algorithm on the 116117 website that will let you know if you should go now or if it can wait until you can get in to your regular doctor. It told me to go now.) So I trekked to the closest place that had a KV doctor (I forget what it stands for, but as far as I can tell, it's basically equivalent to urgent care) with a book to read and a back-up battery for my phone, because ERs have long waits. I was in and out in half an hour with a prescription for penicillin. I paid 0 Euro for the experience. Then I had to figure out how to get a prescription filled on a Sunday in Germany, which entailed finding a list of the Notdienst pharmacies through the Apothekenkammer website and going to one that was relatively easy to access from where I was (and easy to get home from). Because it was a Notdienst pharmacy, there was a 2-Euro surcharge on the usual 5-Euro price.

Like I said, I used to be a pharmacist in the US, and the price of medications there is absurd and random. Metformin is basically free, as is HCTZ and some other really old generics; migraine pills, even the generics, cost like $5 each and up, and there are limits on how many you can get in a month (because insurance companies are evil, and you're only allowed to get 6 migraines a month, don't you know). Speaking of migraine pills, you can buy naratriptan without a prescription. A 2-pack costs 5-7 Euro. (Presumably you can get it with a prescription, and more than 2 at a time, but I haven't tried this yet, because, knock on wood, my migraines haven't come back enough yet to make me look into it. The last few I had were because I ate food I didn't know was a trigger.)

Blogging this tweet because this explains SO MUCH about the mindset of pretty much all the folks I’ve known who’re against single-payer, it’s not even funny…

[broodyjoey]

tw // sui ideation

This house just makes me want to fucking end myself, but my therapist said that it was good when I was using my little mantra to divert the sui feelings and urges into tangible sadness instead of letting it pent up inside my mind. She said it was alright to cry but I can't even cry now, I'm constipated emotionally again...All the effort we put into making me much better at handling my emotions and defending against abuse has gone down the damn toilet during these past 2 years I haven't seen her. I feel like I can never get out of this hell hole anymore.

She used to make me feel like I was walking towards a good path, filled with progress but now that the insurance lapsed. Now that I'm no longer in therapy, I'm constantly depressed. I can't seem to get out of the house when it matters the most. Or take care of my daily personal hygiene, or eat properly. I have no appetite on most days and I can't stay afloat of my chores, I feel like I'm constantly drowning...

I need to find the time now, to crawl out of the house on time to the national clinics, with these cursed ass opening hours that nobody can make time for...I don't know how I used to be able to make it there after school, even tho my school is in a whole other district...Plus the waiting times in my town's clinic are abysmal - a whole fucking 3~5 hours mfr

That's fucking crazy, I don't even know what is the lunch hours for these cursed ass national clinics with fuck knows when opening hours...Somehow I always arrive during their break hours or when they're closing. Idk how I keep doing that but I followed the Gmap timings for it...they still kick me out early depending on the busyness of the day. I've had enough of that!! Scam opening hours, fake news...How tf do they expect people to get the necessary national clinic documents if those stupid ass national clinics won't even let me see a doctor... T.T

I need to go to the clinic soon; it'll be a whole 3 months wait for the recommendation letter to go thru and the waiting list for psych is crazy (pun not intended) long. I'm surprised anybody survives this wait. No wonder why my work friend from one of my previous jobs entered the National Mental Institute, and so did my ex, Isaac. (No real names are used online heheh :) ) My ex was having sui ideation but got thrown into the grippy sock land because he called the wrong number (I called the mental health hotline, and he called the ambulance...) Our country has the most terrible ways of handling mental health problems. You have to be raised a certain type of vigilant, to be cautious enough to skip through all these process-traps that will throw you unwillingly into the grippy sock land. I'm both vigilant and paranoid enough from my abusive childhood that I'm good at sussing out what to do to get me on the safest path to my goals. I won't say that every mentally ill person has the exact same balance of cautiousness and being able to mask so well, So well that officials gave me the green light to go for outpatient care.

Somehow I always arrive during their break hours or when they're closing; the doctor that I got was just pure luck tho. That I can't deny, but I am very good at making people think I'm fine enough to function. I don't tell my family anything vulnerable, people like me with this type of upbringing will die if someone gets a hold of my secrets. No matter how benign people with healthy childhoods think it is. I've almost been attacked by my mother for speaking well of a guy classmate and my father has accused me of dating my guy friend who is gay...wtf.

I got ratted out by my distant aunt and had to pull a gaslighting manoeuvre that I learnt from my parents, holy shit I've never hidden my meds in such an awkward position, in such a secluded place that sometimes I forget that it's there. I've also run a burn campaign against my distant aunt, just to cover up that reveal. Sorry not sorry, if you put my wellbeing in danger, you're done. Dead to me. I warned her against informing my parents but she didn't listen. I don't want someone to get away with such actions against me. I don't need such people attacking my well-being in my life, especially not when I'm from an Asian country and will have to live with my parents even when I'm married.

That shit will have me killed, not even my distant aunt, no matter that she's also mentally ill, NOBODY should treat my safety as a damn joke.

[themomsandthecity]

The Postpartum Phase No One Talks About

The day after arriving home from the hospital with her newborn, Lauren Cooper woke up with a massive headache. "It hurt to open my eyes," she says, recalling that she had to wear sunglasses to her son's first pediatrician appointment in order to manage the pain. Google told her it was likely just hormones. But by that night, her sister, who'd gone to nursing school, convinced her to phone the on-call doctor. That obstetrician recommended Cooper take a blood pressure reading. "I told her what it was, and she said, 'Lauren, you have to go to the ER right now. You have preeclampsia and you are at risk of having a seizure or a stroke,'" she says. Cooper was admitted to the hospital, put on a magnesium drip, and told she was one of the lucky ones: If patients ignore the symptoms and stay home, postpartum preeclampsia can potentially be fatal. It happens more often than you might think. Despite how much medical attention parents-to-be get while pregnant, once they're discharged after delivering their baby, there's a major drop-off in healthcare - even though nearly two-thirds of pregnancy-related deaths in the US happen after giving birth, according to a study by The Commonwealth Fund. Researchers call this the "postpartum cliff." --- Experts Featured in This Article Stephanie White is a certified doula and nurse care manager at the family-building support company WIN. Nicole Sparks, MD, is a board-certified ob-gyn and children's book author based in Atlanta. --- Bridging the Postpartum Cliff "Society expects new mothers to 'bounce back to normal,' with the idea that it's natural for women to have babies," says doula Stephanie White. "Mothers ignore when something could be wrong physically and mentally to care for their baby and family, and may not even recognize that she doesn't feel well or is bleeding too much." The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that patients have initial contact with their obstetrician within three weeks postpartum, and a more comprehensive visit 12 weeks after birth. However, "a surprising amount of people do not follow up to their postpartum appointments," says ob-gyn Nicole Sparks, MD. Others might see their OB, but never make it to their primary care provider for things like long-term chronic conditions. "And so after they're done with their OB, they're just done. And they may be sitting there with high blood pressure, diabetes, mental health conditions, postpartum depression, all of those things with no one to lay eyes on them," Dr. Sparks says. There are a number of reasons why postpartum patients skip their appointments. Sometimes it's because insurance doesn't cover enough of the costs. Sometimes there are transportation or childcare issues. "Or they literally just forget because they're tired and sleep-deprived and overwhelmed," Dr. Sparks says. Dr. Sparks admits that after having each of her three kids, she developed postpartum depression and barely followed up with her own medical team. "I just didn't want to leave my house. It was too overwhelming to get in the car and go somewhere," she adds. Yet not getting the necessary care can be dangerous. Just after giving birth, the most common serious health problems are excessive bleeding, infection, and preeclampsia and high blood pressure (which might seem to be under control prior to discharge only to skyrocket after going home, according to White). Even up to a year later, cardiomyopathy, or a weakened heart muscle, can be fatal, the March of Dimes reports. Meanwhile, the National Institutes of Health estimates that postpartum depression affects about 15 percent of those who give birth while reported rates of postpartum anxiety range from 13 to 40 percent, according to a study in "Infant Behavior and Development." Experts suggest patients contact a provider if anything seems wrong after leaving the hospital. In particular, Dr. Sparks says that a headache that won't go away or vision… https://www.popsugar.com/family/postpartum-cliff-49393676?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[yesgermany-manish]

Importance of Health Insurance for Students in Germany

When planning to study abroad, health insurance might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it's a crucial aspect of student life in Germany. Whether you're from the EU or a non-EU country, understanding the health insurance system in Germany is essential for a smooth and secure study experience.

Why Health Insurance is Mandatory

Germany takes student health seriously, which is why having valid health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all students. Without it, you won't be able to enroll at a university or apply for a student visa. The reason behind this requirement is to ensure that all students have access to necessary healthcare services without financial strain, allowing them to focus on their studies without worries.

Types of Health Insurance for Students

In Germany, students can choose between public and private health insurance.

Public Health Insurance: Most students opt for public health insurance as it's generally more affordable and covers a wide range of medical services. If you're under 30 and enrolled at a German university, public insurance is the best option.

Private Health Insurance: Some students, especially those over 30 or in specialized programs, might need to choose private health insurance. While it can be more expensive, private insurance offers more tailored coverage options.

Benefits of Having Health Insurance

Having health insurance in Germany means you're covered for medical consultations, hospital stays, and even prescription medications. This comprehensive coverage ensures that you won't face financial difficulties if you need medical care during your studies. Additionally, health insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you can access top-quality healthcare whenever necessary.

How to Choose the Right Health Insurance

Choosing the right health insurance plan depends on your individual needs and circumstances. It's essential to compare different plans, considering factors like coverage, cost, and any additional benefits. Consulting with a German Study Abroad Consultant in Bangalore can help you navigate these options and make an informed decision.

The Role of Education Consultants

Navigating the German healthcare system can be challenging, especially for international students. This is where Overseas Education Consultants come into play. They can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right health insurance plan and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for your studies in Germany.

Conclusion

In summary, having health insurance is not just a legal requirement but a vital part of your study experience in Germany. It ensures that you can access essential healthcare services without financial burden, allowing you to focus on your academic and personal growth. For personalized advice and assistance in choosing the best health insurance, consider reaching out to Higher Education Consultants who specialize in German education.

Taking care of your health while studying abroad is just as important as your academic achievements. With the right health insurance, you can enjoy your time in Germany, knowing that you're well-protected.

[liopleurodean]

can we also talk about how the world forgets that glasses users are disabled and sometimes refuses to accommodate? let's get petty with details actually.

just the other day I was in the store and there was a costume mask on clearance. was there space for glasses? of course not! because the visually impaired aren't allowed to be Spider-Man I guess. or what about swimming?

"man, isn't this lake gorgeous?" I don't know, I had to take my glasses off so I don't lose them in the water. the only reason I can tell you apart from the other people in this lake is because you chose to wear a bright red swimsuit.

"let's go to a trampoline park!" the park won't pay for damages if my glasses break because I signed a waiver saying they're not responsible for my property. insurance won't cover them because eyes aren't part of the health system, apparently, and I'm not completely blind so obviously they're not "essential".

insurance also won't pay for the eye surgery because my opthalmologist said my eyesight hasn't declined in the last three years and, since I've lived for so long this way, I've adapted, so the surgery is available but not necessary. insurance only cares about necessary.

listen I am so glad that there are accommodations available; that I can just walk into a Wal-Mart or a mall or get an app to get my glasses is amazing. but the menus at fast food places are too far away for me to read the prices clearly and participating in any sport means accepting that I'll be spending a good chunk of money on replacement glasses (assuming my hand-eye coordination/depth perception are up to the task) and I can't even enjoy a beach because every thing is a blur of blue and tan and rainbow sprinkles.

"just get contacts!" NOT EVERYONE CAN WEAR CONTACTS! I am sick and tired of hearing this. my prescription is too strong! my opthalmologist said that he could give me a recommendation to a guy who would make them for me, but they wouldn't be good for everyday use and I certainly shouldn't use them to drive! "just get lasik" lasik is a procedure for near-sightedness.it reshapes the cornea to enhance your vision. my nearsightedness is caused by amblyopia (lazy eye), but it's not so simple. the lazy eye itself is caused by ANOTHER issue that requires a specialized surgery by a licensed opthalmologist familiar with my medical history.

anyway I'm just tired. in high school I was involved in theater, as many nerds are. I couldn't wear my glasses on stage because they didn't fit the style of the piece (we were a competition group), so I had to navigate the set pieces and other actors extremely carefully. I can't play VR games like BeatSaber because, 1) they don't fit over my glasses so it'll be blurry anyway and 2) they require your eyes to be fairly equal, which mine are far from.

I'm not allowed to drive without my glasses, it would be dangerous. if they break, then I'm stuck. I can't go to work, to the store, to see my friends. my parents have full-time jobs, they can't take me. my brother isn't old enough, and if he was, he has school. none of my coworkers have the same shifts I do so we can't carpool. should I expect one of my friends to drop everything every time I want to go into one of the bigger cities? I live in a rural area. we have "public transportation", but that's only within the town itself and not affordable long-term.

people look at me and assume that I'm healthy, fit, and capable of any activity they can. they don't understand that I have severe limitations that restrict every choice I make.

Made the mistake of bringing up that needing glasses is a disability on tiktok and people got real mad.

“You can fix it with glasses” yeah, cuz they’re a disability aid? But like, I still have to pay 160 bucks to use my own fucking eyes?

Like, by definition, if your eyes do not work without aid, you have a disability to see.

Having a disability doesn’t automatically put you in what people consider the “disabled” category, but that doesn’t change the fact that it is in fact, a disability.

[greevalleysmilecare]

Common Myths About Dental Bridges Debunked

Dental bridges are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth. However, despite their widespread use, several myths and misconceptions about dental bridges persist. In this blog, we'll debunk some of the most common myths, providing you with accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your dental health.

Myth 1: Dental Bridges Are Unnatural and Uncomfortable

One of the most common myths about dental bridges is that they are unnatural and uncomfortable. This myth likely stems from the perception that artificial teeth cannot match the comfort and functionality of natural teeth. However, advancements in dental technology have significantly improved the design and fit of dental bridges.

Modern dental bridges are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly. They are crafted from high-quality materials that mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. When properly fitted by a skilled dentist, dental bridges can be very comfortable, often to the point where patients forget they have them. If you are concerned about the comfort of dental bridges, consult a dentist in Henderson who can provide personalized advice and solutions.

Myth 2: Dental Bridges Are Only for the Elderly

Another prevalent myth is that dental bridges are only suitable for the elderly. While it's true that tooth loss is more common among older adults, people of all ages can benefit from dental bridges. Whether due to injury, decay, or other dental issues, tooth loss can affect anyone.

Dental bridges can help restore the function and appearance of your smile, regardless of your age. They are an excellent solution for anyone looking to replace missing teeth and maintain good oral health. Young adults and middle-aged individuals who have lost teeth should consider dental bridges as a viable option.

Myth 3: Dental Bridges Are Difficult to Maintain

Some people believe that dental bridges are difficult to maintain, requiring special care and frequent dental visits. In reality, maintaining a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups, are essential.

It's important to clean around the dental bridge to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to care for your bridge, including the use of special flossing tools if necessary. Regular visits to the dentist in Henderson can help ensure your dental bridge remains in good condition.

Myth 4: Dental Bridges Look Fake and Obvious

Many people worry that dental bridges will look fake and be easily noticeable to others. However, dental bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Dentists use advanced materials and techniques to match the color, shape, and size of the bridge to your existing teeth.

When done correctly, a dental bridge should be indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Most people won't even notice you have a dental bridge unless you tell them. If aesthetics are a concern, speak with a dentist experienced in creating dental bridges in Henderson to achieve the most natural-looking results.

Myth 5: Dental Bridges Are Expensive

Cost is a significant concern for many people considering dental bridges. While it's true that dental bridges can be an investment, they are often more affordable than other tooth replacement options like dental implants. Additionally, many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental bridges.

It's also important to consider the long-term benefits of dental bridges. They can prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth, reduce the risk of bite problems, and help maintain the structure of your face. Investing in a dental bridge now can save you money on more extensive dental work in the future. Discuss payment options and insurance coverage with your dentist to make dental bridges a feasible option for you.

Myth 6: Getting a Dental Bridge Is Painful

The idea of undergoing a painful dental procedure deters many people from getting a dental bridge. However, getting a dental bridge typically involves minimal discomfort. The process usually requires two visits to the dentist.

During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the bridge. This step is done under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain. The dentist then takes an impression of your teeth to create a custom bridge. On the second visit, the bridge is fitted and adjusted for comfort. Any minor discomfort experienced during the procedure is usually temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Myth 7: Dental Bridges Don't Last Long

There's a misconception that dental bridges are a short-term solution and need frequent replacement. While dental bridges do not last forever, they are designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can last between 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer.

Factors that influence the longevity of a dental bridge include the quality of the bridge material, the skill of the dentist, and your oral hygiene practices. Regular check-ups with your dentist and good oral care habits can help extend the life of your dental bridge. If you have concerns about the durability of dental bridges, consult a reputable provider of dental bridges in Henderson.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are an effective and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of the benefits and realities of dental bridges. If you're considering a dental bridge, it's essential to consult with a knowledgeable dentist who can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible care. Whether you're in Henderson, a qualified dentist can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile with a dental bridge tailored to your needs.

[dngdentalclinic]

5 Things To Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Introduction:

Dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry, offering a permanent solution to tooth loss that closely resembles natural teeth in both appearance and function. Whether you've lost a tooth due to decay, injury, or any other reason, Dental Implant in Jaipur can provide you with a lifelike replacement. However, before you decide to embark on this journey to a restored smile, there are some essential things you should know about dental implants. In this blog, we'll delve into five crucial aspects you should consider before getting dental implants.

Consultation and Evaluation:

Before you can have dental implants placed, it's essential to consult with a qualified implant dentist. During your initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your medical history. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants, and factors like gum disease, inadequate bone density, or certain medical conditions can affect your eligibility. However, with advancements in dental implant technology, even some individuals who were previously deemed ineligible may now be candidates for the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and circumstances.

The Procedure:

Understanding the dental implant procedure is vital for making an informed decision. Dental implant surgery typically involves three main phases:

a. Placement of the Implant: During this phase, a small titanium post is surgically implanted into your jawbone. This post serves as the foundation for your new tooth. It may take several months for the implant to fully integrate with the bone.

b. Abutment Placement: After the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment is attached to it. The abutment connects the implant to the prosthetic tooth.

c. Prosthetic Tooth: Finally, a custom-made crown is placed onto the abutment, creating a natural-looking tooth that matches your existing teeth in color, shape, and size.

It's important to note that the entire process can take several months, and the exact timeline may vary from person to person.

Cost and Insurance:

Dental implant procedures can be a significant financial investment. The cost varies depending on factors such as the number of implants needed, the complexity of the surgery, and the type of materials used. While dental insurance may cover some aspects of implant treatment, it often doesn't cover the full cost. It's crucial to discuss the financial aspects with your dentist and explore payment options or financing plans to make the procedure more affordable.

Recovery and Aftercare:

Recovery after dental implant surgery is essential for a successful outcome. You may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following the procedure, which can be managed with pain medications and proper care. It's crucial to follow your dentist's instructions for post-operative care and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent complications. Regular dental check-ups will also be necessary to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.

Long-Term Benefits:

Dental implants offer several long-term benefits, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement. They are durable and can last for decades with proper care. Unlike removable dentures, implants are stable and won't slip or click when you speak or eat. They also promote better oral health by preventing bone loss and preserving the integrity of adjacent teeth. Moreover, dental implants can enhance your self-confidence and quality of life by restoring your smile to its full potential.

Conclusion:

Dental implants are a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. However, it's essential to be well-informed about the procedure, costs, and aftercare before making a decision. Consulting with a qualified Best Dentist In Jaipur is the first step to determine if dental implants are right for you. With proper care and attention, dental implants can provide you with a beautiful and long-lasting smile that improves your overall oral health and quality of life.

[cleverthylacine]

People do things that we know they are going to regret all the time.

They are still allowed to, and sometimes we're wrong.

Sometimes people who get married while blind drunk in Vegas are happy together for the rest of their lives.

Sometimes people who have jumped through all the hoops we would like them to jump through and made carefully considered decisions end up miserable.

Also, I really enjoy watching Botched.

That's not schadenfreude, there--it's really interesting. And the point of bringing it up is that actually, we DO allow people to get surgery just because they're vain, or want to look like elves and Barbie dolls, even if there's a good chance that they will regret it.

What people are not so secretly arguing about here is whether or not we should all (as a Society) have to pay for other people's medical care if we don't approve of it.

My answer is always going to be yes, because: 1. many people disapprove of abortions and gender confirmation surgery because they're assholes, yet that they're actually critically necessary health care.

2. nobody should have to put whether or not they can have surgery up to a vote.

3. when medical treatment isn't covered by health care payors (and we should only really have one--society itself), people result to buying their drugs on the street and getting their body mods in other people's homes, and the people who sell the drugs and do the surgery aren't necessarily competent to do those things

4. insurers are actually really fucking mean about plastic surgery. If you have breast cancer, you should not have your breast reconstruction after surgery denied because "it's cosmetic". You can live without boobs, or with only one, but nobody should have to do that just because they're poor. Poor people who get in accidents should have the right to all the facial reconstruction surgery they need. People who get weight loss surgery (and I could rant about that for days--there are a few situations in which it might be warranted, but just 'being fat' is not one of them) should not have to be stuck with their loose skin as punishment for having been fat but poor.

So yeah, I'm comfortable with someone using my tax dollars to get "stupid" surgeries.

Also, I'm going to pick a bone here.

Transness is not a medical condition that requires treatment, but gender dysphoria is.

That is why bans on health care for trans youth are so absolutely crucial to their survival. Some kids will weather going through opposite sex puberty and having a harder time transitioning later okay, but many won't; for those with severe dysphoria, denying social transition as well as hormones is likely to cause deep depression, which leads to self-harm, risk-taking behaviour and sometimes suicide.

if trans people ought to receive whatever reconstructive medical procedures they desire, and indeed they ought, then this cannot be specifically because they are trans, nor even specifically because they are the gender that they are—first, because this would reify transness as a medical status that demands treatment, which is an unacceptable concession to the authority of pathologizing narratives; and second, because there is no tenable argument that can be given for helping a trans person receive the medical intervention(s) they may desire that would not spill across the boundaries of both whatever gender the intervention is "supposed" to be for (why shouldn't a cis man be given a breast augmentation if he wants one?) and what are considered "gendered" physical traits in the first place (why shouldn't a trans woman get to have a surgically produced tail if such technology exists one day INSHALLAH).

[harvey090]

Gains in Usefulness for Plumbers

Gains in Usefulness for Plumbers

Perhaps that number has hit close to home for you in your own company. Many people who worked in construction during the pandemic were either forced to resign or were let go. Demand for household plumbing is rising as we reach a post-pandemic world, but there aren't enough trained workers to meet it.

Fortunately, there are measures you may do to keep your top employees. Give them the useful benefits they need and deserve. You probably already have some sort of employee benefits package in place, but it would be wise to do an audit to see how satisfied your staff is with it.

A healthy, happy, and loyal workforce is essential to the success of any business, so let's examine some of the more tangible pipe gas fitting you should be offering your plumbers and why they're so important.

Improved Health Advantages

Do your current health benefits and insurance policies provide your staff with the necessary care and assistance? Do you assess employees to see whether they have problems that may not be covered by the insurance the company provides? The following types of medical coverage should be offered if they are not already:

HSAs, or Health Savings Accounts,

Vision and dental care plans

Invalidity Coverage

FSAs are the acronym for "Flexible Spending Accounts" and are currently used in the financial industry to Zero??

Insurance on one's life

Insurance in Case of Accidents

Even while plumbing isn't the most dangerous profession, it nevertheless demands a lot of hard work and the occasional injury. Stress and illness are reduced in the workplace when workers know they won't be responsible for paying for their own medical care in the event of an injury.

Providing mental health care is also crucial. Because people spend so much time at their jobs, occupational stress can have serious consequences for their psychological well-being. Because of the shortage of available workers, your plumbers may be working long hours and feeling exhausted. The general happiness of your staff can be greatly improved if you include mental health benefits as part of your employment package.

Vacation Days Boosted

Burnout is the last thing you need when you're short on personnel, but it's easy to happen.

Exhaustion on all fronts: mental, emotional, and physical

Loss of Interest

Insufficient Drive

The result: lower output.

Providing your employees with more time off can improve their work-life balance and decrease the likelihood of burnout. Workers who are content and healthy are more likely to show up for work each day with a positive attitude and increased output. Promoting work-life balance, generous vacation policies, and supportive parental leave policies not only attract and retain the best employees in your field, but also help you expand your firm.

What kind of vacation time do your employees want? Ask them! Finding out what your plumbers actually want and why they value their free time can be accomplished with the use of an employee survey. They may request benefits such as paternity leave, more vacation time, or time off for personal reasons. You should aim for a middle ground when it comes to paid time off (PTO), but don't be afraid to give up a few extra days if it would benefit the team as a whole.

[murraytalksinsurance]

Reasons Why You Need to Get a Health Insurance

Your health should be a key priority in today's world of constant change. Even while leading a healthy lifestyle is essential, accidents and illnesses can happen without warning. Health insurance is helpful in this situation. Health insurance is a safety net when you need high-quality medical care. 

Health insurance offers many advantages to safeguard your physical well-being and financial security, whether dealing with a minor injury or suffering a significant health problem. 

In this post, we'll examine why talking with a health insurance broker in NJ is essential for living a secure life without anxiety.

To fight lifestyle diseases

The prevalence of lifestyle diseases is increasing, particularly among those under 45. Diabetes, obesity, lung issues, heart disease, and other conditions common in older individuals are also common in younger people. Sedentary lifestyles, stress, pollution, unhealthful eating patterns, gadget addiction, and irresponsible lifestyles contribute to these disorders. 

While taking precautions can help prevent and control chronic diseases, dealing with an unexpected situation financially can be difficult. Investing in a health insurance broker in NJ that includes routine medical exams can aid in the early detection of specific ailments and simplify handling medical costs, giving you one less thing to worry about. 

To safeguard your family 

Instead of purchasing separate plans for each family member, you can cover everyone under the same policy when searching for the appropriate health insurance plan. Consider your dependent kids and aging parents, who are probably more susceptible to illnesses. 

If you have the right health insurance broker in NJ, you won't have to worry about ensuring they receive the most excellent medical care should anything unfortunate happen. Make sure to do your homework, seek the advice of experts, and choose a plan that offers comprehensive coverage. 

To deal with medical inflation

The price of therapy grows as disease rates rise and medical technology advances. It's also crucial to realize that medical expenses are unrelated to hospitals. The price of doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, ambulance fees, operating room fees, medications, and other costs are also steadily rising. 

If you are unprepared, all of them could significantly burden your budget. You can avoid the burden of medical inflation and choose high-quality care without worrying about the expense by paying a reasonably priced annual health insurance premium.

To protect your savings

While dealing with a sudden sickness can cause emotional pain and stress, there is another aspect of managing a physical condition that can drain you financially. You can better manage your medical expenses by purchasing good health insurance coverage without using all your money. 

Your investments can be used for their intended purposes, such as retirement, property ownership, and raising a family. Also, health insurance entitles you to tax advantages, boosting your savings even more. 

Insure early to stay secured 

Early talking with health insurance brokers in NJ offers many advantages. You can enroll in plans at reduced rates since you are young and healthy; the benefit will last as you age. You will also have the choice of more comprehensive coverage packages. 

Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered by insurance during a waiting period. You will benefit from having comprehensive coverage that will be helpful if you become unwell later in life because this period will end while you are still young and healthy. 

Conclusion

Securing health insurance is crucial to safeguarding your health and financial stability. Additionally, it offers peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are protected during medical emergencies. 

Prioritizing health insurance is an investment in your well-being and an essential aspect of responsible financial planning. Take the necessary steps to explore different health insurance options and choose a health insurance broker in NJ that best suits your needs.

Contact Murray Talks Insurance if you are looking for the best health insurance broker in NJ.

[jaineys]

Advice and suggestions for selecting the best life insurance plan

One of the most crucial protections you may receive for the welfare and assistance of your loved ones in the unlikely scenario that something terrible happens to you is life insurance. However, selecting the right type of coverage for you and your loved ones can occasionally feel like a maze. As you go over your personal choices, keep these suggestions in mind.

Choose an independent broker when you want to buy a life insurance policy. Compared to a broker that only represents one insurance provider, independent brokers typically have a wider range of options in terms of cost and coverage. Company brokers are constrained to the products that their company sells and may even be pressured to suggest a specific product by the company.

You might want to think about getting burial insurance while obtaining life insurance. This insurance is reasonably priced and will pay for things like your casket, funeral service expenses, travel expenses, and other similar things. This is certainly worth it because paying for these things out of pocket can be extremely expensive.

Your provider may decide to increase your premiums if you engage in high-risk hobbies or activities like scuba diving or skydiving. Your premiums will surely reflect the fact that some professions are regarded as high risk.

Before you put your name on the queue, carefully read the entire policy. Understand the agreement's price reductions, exclusions, particles, and any other fine print. There can be a provision that prevents payment for pre-existing conditions. You may ensure that your partner will receive the money they require by reading carefully.

Avoid purchasing greater amounts of life insurance than is necessary. Just enough should be purchased to meet your family's needs. If you purchase too much life insurance, you will have to pay substantially higher premiums. But be careful not to cut corners on insurance to end having a plan that won't support your family.

Avoid purchasing insurance plans that pay the person who sold you the policy significant finders fees. These payments go to a broker or agent that handles insurance, and the price is then added to your premiums. If you can find a company that has a "no load" regulations, it is in your best interest to choose it.

Companies that provide life insurance frequently charge smokers twice the standard price. If you smoke, quitting is one way to lower your insurance's monthly premium. Maintaining a healthy weight is another strategy to reduce your insurance price. Smokers who maintain a healthy physical condition have a far lower risk of illness and disease.

If you want to give your kids money for their school, think about term life insurance. Posp Term life insurance is a highly affordable form of protection that can cover your children's college bills and other costs, especially if you're a single parent. You can discontinue the coverage once your children have completed their studies.

Avoid assured issue policies if you aren't suffering from any serious health issues. You can save money by getting a medical checkup, but guaranteed issue insurance do not require one and have higher premiums. There is no need for you to purchase more life insurance that is actually necessary.

The optimal time for a person to actually get a new life insurance plan is before you reach your half birthday. Insurance companies substitute what they refer to as your "age nearest" for your real age. Therefore, if you will turn 30 in six months, you will be charged a little extra because you will be considered 30 already.

Before buying life insurance, you should be wary of advisors who make sweeping claims about their expertise. It's possible that an advisor is mistaken about some facts if they respond to all of your queries without doing any study. Due to the complexity of insurance policies, even the best insurance experts cannot know everything without additional research.

You can feel more assured about moving forward now that you have been provided with specific advice to guide you in choosing the appropriate coverage for your requirements. Once you've done that, you'll experience the immense peace of thoughts that is gained from knowing that you've done everything in your power to ensure the safety and security of your family.

[insipid-drivel]

Landlords have legal protections in place that prevent them from being easily sued or vilified for the consequences of their choices on poor and underprivileged families. They also have the cops on their side.

Say that a single mom and her new baby have just managed to pass the rental process for an apartment. The mom was able to muster up enough for a down payment on a real place thanks to benefit programs after she held down her last job long enough to qualify for insurance to get her through prenatal care and the hospital bills for a standard, healthy, normal delivery.

But there are complications with her labor, and she ends up needing more PTO (Paid Time Off) and maternity leave than her current employer will give. She ends up with her doctors telling her they'd feel better about the safety of her health and her child's if she stays in the hospital for longer than her insurance will cover; either she, the baby, or both had serious problems during the delivery and extra care is necessary to keep mother and child safe. Maybe instead of a long hospital stay, it's mandatory bedrest that keeps Mom from holding down steady work.

She loses her job. Her boss is very sympathetic, but tells her he can't afford to keep her on a payroll when she's too sick or her baby needs her too much. He'll give her a good reference and some severance pay, but that's all he can do. She's still too overwhelmed by health scares, hospital bills, and worrying about her baby to find another job. She misses an appointment at the unemployment agency to take her baby to the pediatrician for an ear infection and gets penalized by being moved to the back of the line.

She misses out on a few paychecks. She can't make the rent. The landlord is compassionate at first, but unforgiving the next few times she can't afford her full rent. He starts threatening her that there are plenty of grateful applicants out there and that he could evict her for someone "trustworthy" and that has a longer history of paying rent on time and have better credit scores than she has; better references, and better income.

Now she's so terrified she can't compose herself for job interviews, if she even gets called back for one. Every time she opens Zoom or arrives at another office, crushing anxiety sinks in: "I'd better nail this or we end up on the street. I can't screw this up. I can't screw up. I have to get this job. I need this job."

But, in spite of the tone that "nobody wants to work anymore" in the air, no matter how desperately she presents her desire to work and dedicate herself to her job, she's a mom. Newborn babies are often reasons the company has a high turnover of female staff. The boss isn't interested in hiring a new mom, but he can't say that directly, so she never hears back from anybody.

She's just trying to keep a roof over her baby's head, but nobody will hire her because of the baby. The hiring managers and bosses she interviews with put on a veneer of empathy; many of them have kids and families, too, and it gives her false hope. The reality is that the hiring managers and bosses only care about their own. They won't give a borderline-homeless single mom with a newborn an actual shot. They have their lives together.

She misses more rent days and goes into arrears she can't pay back. The landlord begins filing an eviction notice with the city; he can't afford free-riding a starving single mom living in one of his many vacancies at the apartment complexes he bought up around the city. He's a reputable landlord, so he can't possibly be associated with running shady setups where grubby-looking poor people struggling in an uphill battle in a system designed to work against them. After all, he pulled himself up by his bootstraps as a young man by buying his first property at a pittance from someone else who couldn't afford it anymore!

And so, the single mom becomes the villain. She's a leech. She's a freeloader. Why didn't she get an abortion if she knew she couldn't afford to care for her baby? The landlord is in his legal right to evict her, as long as he gets the right paperwork from the city and waits the minimum period before he starts changing the locks. There are laws in the city that would allow her to get away with squatting for several months, but squatting is how you get a bad reputation as a renter. It also doesn't pay enough to feed the baby.

She ends up on the street. She's still desperately trying to find a job, but ends up living out of her car and using public restrooms to freshen up before interviews. Her insurance through her work expired a month ago. COVID is raging through homeless communities. She comes down with it, but keeps pushing herself to keep looking for work.

Her baby starts coughing. A lot.

She can't afford the hospital bills.

Her only other choice is to give up custody of her baby to the state, and thus foster care. She would rather die than lose her child, much less condemn them to the foster system. She tries her hardest for her baby, but there's only one free clinic in town. She's scared her baby will be taken away forever if she goes to the nearest hospital; the same one she lost her job to and still harasses her over her unpaid medical bills.

The local news reports on a homeless mother found guilty of negligent homicide of her baby who died of COVID. Her parental rights are terminated permanently; if she ever has another baby, Child Protective Services will take them away. She serves time in prison for the death of her baby. She's officially a felon now, traumatized with grief, and has to get her life together enough to satisfy a parole officer after she serves her sentence.

She ends up living in short-stay hotels once she gets out. She can't find another apartment. The hotel costs more than she can afford. She has to keep her mental health together to land a minimum wage job when she can't afford a therapist. Her parole officer has no compassion for her, because she's the monster that let her baby die.

Years later, she still can't find a landlord. Every time one looks up her history, it says she killed her baby. She's a monster. Nobody wants to rent to a monster.

Her old landlord just evicted another underprivileged mom. The other residents are too poor and scared to stand up to him, even though they know this isn't fair.

Another baby dies.

Another witch burns.

When a drug dealer sells drugs to a child who dies from an overdose, people call for the drug dealer's head on a stick.

So when a landlord evicts a family with a child and the child dies from being homeless, why isn't the landlord treated the same way?

[college-girl199328]

Lois Cooper says she was upsold thousands of dollars in extra services at a private, for-profit clinic, and when she started to ask questions, the doctor told her to leave. She's not the only Canadian who's gone through questionable practices. It's the pile of bills that sums up her medical journey.

"This is the note I made when I got the phone call in January," said the 75-year-old from Gravenhurst, Ont. "And I was told there'd be a $150 fee. That was the beginning of starting to pay for stuff."

Cooper had a macular hole in her right eye and needed medically necessary surgery called a vitrectomy, another solution. Cooper was referred to a private, for-profit clinic north of Toronto, but before the operation started, she was asked to sign off on optional tests, services, and procedures.

In later appointments following the surgery, the doctor told her that she would need to keep her face down for two weeks, which would require the rental of a special wedge-type pillow. He also recommended glasses that would refract her vision. Months later, he recommended laser surgery for eye floaters, which Cooper said didn't work. He even said he detected a mass behind her other eye that would require further surgery. A second opinion from a doctor in Toronto revealed there was no mass in her eye.

When Cooper asked questions, she was shown the door, but not before she was on the hook for close to $8,000 for appointments, equipment rentals, and procedures. Cooper was upsold.

"I wouldn't have spoken out if I hadn't heard Premier [Doug] Ford say that these private clinics won't charge you money, won't charge extra," she told CBC News. "It feels like it's my public duty to say that's not true."

According to upselling, according to Dr. Danyaal Raza, a family doctor at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, a patient is asked to pay for extra services that are uninsured when they're undergoing a procedure that should be publicly covered. It's different from extra when a private, for-profit clinic would bill the province for a procedure that's covered by government health insurance while also billing the patient.

Health Canada reports show that between April 2019 and March 2020, private, for-profit clinics upsold and illegally charged Canadians to the tune of tens of millions of dollars.

In early March, the federal government announced that it was going to cut more than $82 million in transfer payments to the provinces in cases where patients were asked to pay out of pocket for care that should have been covered in 2020. "You're paying out of pocket for health care you should not be paying for, and clinics are prohibited from charging you," said Andrew Longhurst, a health policy researcher at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver.

Raza said it's a slippery slope between extra billing and upselling. "I think we need to be concerned about upselling because it's the thin edge of the wedge towards extra billing, where patients are told they can only get something that's publicly covered if they pay out of pocket."

Upselling can start with the power dynamic that often exists between patients and healthcare professionals. Cooper said it certainly started that way for her. "I was sent there by my medical professional; that would mean to me that this is where you should be, and this is how it's done, and this is what's expected, and you do it."

Once she got to what she described as a "large warehouse with no ceiling" that was packed with people, she had to sign documents before she was seen by anyone.

"You're not a doctor, you're not a nurse, and you don't have 10 years of medical training under your belt, so you're at a huge disadvantage when you're presented with information," he said. Cooper signed the documents, which she showed to CBC News, and had her vitrectomy. During the surgery, she said, her retina was torn and she was told cataracts were removed, even though Cooper had never been aware that she had cataracts.

She said she got her vision back in her right eye. However, in subsequent visits that cost her $150 for each appointment, the surgeon said he found a cataract in her other eye, told her she had dry eye disease, and convinced Cooper to get laser surgery for floaters.

What's more, the equipment Cooper's doctor told her to rent after the initial surgery, such as the special glasses and pillow, should have been covered by the government since it was deemed to be a medically necessary procedure. The bills have eroded Cooper's trust in a medical system that should be protecting patients.

"I don't know if it's illegal, but it's unethical to think that the behavior is unethical," she said. Cooper did not want to publicly name the clinic. CBC News reached out to the clinic for comment but did not receive a response.

Dr. David Urbach, surgeon-in-chief at Women's College Hospital in Toronto, said upselling is baked into the business model of public money going to private, for-profit clinics. "I don't believe they can be a viable business unless they're going to be paid over what the government is already paying public hospitals, or they're going to be levying all these unnecessary charges," he said.

What worries Raza is what he calls "the slow creep": as more patients are persuaded to spend money on additional tests and procedures, they may grow accustomed to the practice. "If you're already used to paying out of pocket for services that are uninsured, suddenly paying for this insured service feels normal," he said.

Ultimately, Cooper started asking questions when she was told there was a mass in her eye that would require another vitrectomy. "I asked him to explain the mass to me, and he looked at me like I had three heads," she recalled.

When she asked further questions, the ophthalmologist told her to leave. "And then he turned to his assistant and said, 'Charge this to OHIP.'"

Despite her ordeal, Cooper is happy that the original surgery to fix the hole in her eye was successful. Her vision isn't perfect, but she can read and drive. But her story is a cautionary tale, and she wants others to learn from it. "I just want people to be aware that when they go to a private clinic, they should make sure they ask questions and don't sign any papers. Go there first and get all the information on what they're going to want from you, and then maybe go talk to somebody else," Cooper said.

"If you're at a medical appointment and you're being asked to pay for a medical service, you should always ask whether or not you need to pay that fee to actually get the care that you came there for," Raza said. He added that if a patient feels they were unfairly charged for a medical service performed at a hospital, they should contact the hospital's patient relations department.

Unfortunately, Raza said, too much is put on the patient to process at a time when they are most vulnerable. "If I ask, 'Am I going to be denied care? Am I going to be put at the back of the line? – it's overwhelming, and frankly, we shouldn't really be expecting or asking patients to be able to decode federal and provincial legislation."

[mattywritess]

How Does a Long Term Care Policy Work?

Long-term care insurance is supposed to bridge the gap between when a person can get around without help and their death. It was not designed to cover your needs for the rest of your life, but it can make a significant contribution when used as planned. Here is everything you need to know about long-term care insurance.

What Is Long Term Care?

Long-term care insurance policy helps you pay for the cost of long-term care or the assistance you need to live on your own. This type of insurance differs from others because it covers services for as long as you need them, even if that's more than five years. Long term care insurance policy can include nursing home and assisted living costs. It can also include adult daycare and in-home care services to help you safely get around the house.

If you've been diagnosed with a disease or condition that means you'll need long-term care at some point, long term care insurance could help cover some of those costs.

What Does a Long Term Care Policy Cover?

Long-term care insurance includes both health and non-health benefits. As with any policy, some exclusions apply to each type of benefit and some limitations as well. Here's what a typical long term care policy covers.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

ADLs are basic activities that every person needs to perform every day, such as bathing and dressing. The best long term care insurance plans will pay for these services if you cannot perform them yourself.

Home Health Care

Home health care is necessary when you have limited mobility or need assistance with basic daily tasks like bathing, meal preparation, and getting dressed. A long term care policy will help pay for this type of service if needed.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is a treatment designed to provide comfort and pain relief for terminally ill patients in their last six months of life. This type of coverage may be available through your long term care policy.

Assisted Living Facility

If you need help with daily activities like bathing or dressing but also require assistance with medication management and meals, then assisted living may be the right option. Many people living in assisted living facilities also have rooms and bathrooms.

Nursing Home

The best long term care insurance plans pay for nursing home expenses, typically including skilled nursing services and rehabilitation therapy provided by trained nurses and other medical professionals.

What Are the Advantages of Long Term Care Insurance?

You may have heard that having long term care insurance is a good idea, but you might not know why. Here are reasons why you need long-term care insurance:

1) It covers the cost of care, which means that if you need it, you won't have to worry about how much it will cost or how much money will be left over after paying for care.

2) It can help with daily expenses like rent and food; these are things that people who need long-term care often struggle with when they're not able to work.

3) It can help with medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers.

Long-term care insurance gives you a way to protect your financial future in case you need help paying for long-term care services. Long-term care can help you bathe, dress, and eat when you cannot do so by yourself, or it can provide companionship and supervision if you have trouble with decisions. Contact Center for Long Term Care Planning (All Vest Associates) to get a long term care policy today.

End Of Article