I've figured out why the health care disparity affects me so much..it's ME!

[w8liftinglady]

I am a shining example of the unequal health care that exists in this nation,and the effects it can have.
I am fortunate in the fact that I am a nurse who has a lot of experience...and great health insurance.When I began having seizures 4 years ago for unknown reasons-30 to 100/week,I was able to see several neurologists until I found the one I have now-one of the top ten in the country...the one who referred me to my neurosurgeon-one of the top 10 in the country...the one who saved my mind...and my life by respecting my brain.
The sad reality is...if I had been uninsured,I would probably still be on drugs to control my seizures with little hope of going beyond that...especially if I lived in a surrounding area....and would have only been able to stick to generic drugs,as the newer ones are too expensive...and might have had to miss follow-up visits...$150-250 a pop for the uninsured(they would have probably made a deal,though)
This is a prime example of capitalism at it's very worst....a government that persecutes those who don't fall into their financial circle.Those with a shred of decency have a tough time accepting this...but many do because of the persecution if they don't.
No real reason for posting this...other than the fact that you guys are my only outlet...and for that I will be eternally grateful.
Peace.

[sandnsea]

1. Most uninsured would only get ER care

No there would be no follow-up and I haven't noticed too many specialists negotiating their fees lately. Most say cash on the barrelhead.

Which is why I'm grateful for my subsidized insurance even if I can't see one of the top ten doctors in the country. I mean ten doctors can't treat the entire country anyway. Somebody is going to have to go to doctor #101.

[Rosa Luxemburg]

2. I agree we should be talking about this every day

we need to push for a health care system like the one in the UK.

[midnight]

3. What an experience you have been through. So happy for you

that you are able to get the treatment you need. We currently have a very neglectful system that punishes people who are ill. It was one of the hallmarks of nazi germany.

[postulater]

4. So who ranks doctors and on what grounds?

Is it based on their fees? the volume of patients seen? the $ value of drugs prescribed?

Or is it more like the All-Star team? Voted in by peers and stuffed ballpark ballot boxes.

I know a couple of the "best doctors in town" that I wouldn't send anyone to after seeing some of their horrible failures.