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U-M
Health Minute: Today’s top health issues and medical research
Staying healthy in a tough economy
Ann Arbor: With the economy in a state of decline, it is
difficult for many U.S.-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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