Do you avoid necessary medical tests and check-ups?

1. 63

   cat on a soapboxposted 12 years ago

   Do you avoid necessary medical tests and check-ups?
   
   Does the high expense or poor insurance coverage keep you from seeking care?

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2. 83

   peachpurpleposted 12 years ago

   yes, I don't have any health insurance coverage only life. So, when I am sick, i prefer to ask consultation from internet and pharmacy. As for health checkups, i do it only 5 years once because it is expensive to do it yearly and i can't claim the medical fee from anyone either.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you for yur honest answer. Even with health insurance (self-employed) costs can be astronomical w/ very high deductibles. One must be patient and attuned to his/her body and really choose wisely before undergoing expensive tests and procedures.

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3. 59

   duffsmomposted 12 years ago

   Sometimes the cost is prohibitive. Right now we have good insurance but what keeps me from doing many of the medical tests is a phobia for all things medical.  I used to get my mammogram on time yearly, had the colonoscopy when needed - but these past two years I have become very reticent to have things done...I just hate the medical environment.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Sadly, your feelings are quite common. The long wait for the doctor then the bum's rush once you're seen is very unsatisfying. Concerns are often unaddressed because of time constraints, and the doctors seem overworked and grumpy. Then it costs $$$ !

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4. 84

   Abby Campbellposted 12 years ago

   I buy my family's medical insurance. Though it is still nearly $500 per month, it is only a fraction of what it would cost through my husband's employer which is around $1,500 per month. I have Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and it is one of their new "Saver" plans where each of my family members can go to their primary care up to 4 times per year for a $25 co-payment. However, all preventative care (including normal tests and vaccines) is 100% covered. Therefore, we take advantage of this, especially with the high cost of our insurance.
   
   With that being said, I wanted to mention another alternative for those who don't have medical coverage. First, CVS stores have MinuteClinics where they don't require medical insurance. However, they do take medical insurance if you have it as well as Medicaid and Medicare. The cost is very economical. They do physicals, many lab tests, and sick visits. Here is a link that will show you their services, prices, and locations: http://www.minuteclinic.com/services/ . Secondly, most states have free medical clinics. Depending on your area will depend on how busy they are, so you may want to call them to find out their procedures (whether they take appointments or walk-ins, as well as what type of services they provide). Finally, check with your county or state on subsidized health insurance which is usually with a large medical insurance company like Blue Cross Blue Shield. If you qualify (which is usually based on your salary), you may receive health insurance for free or for a minimal cost. In North Carolina (where I live), qualifiers just pay $3 per doctor visit.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you for the helpful tips. I use the CVS Minute Clinic for immunizations, and non-emergency things like congestion, sore throat, rash, etc.

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5. 76

   JimTxMillerposted 12 years ago

   Of course the cost of medical care and lack of insurance coverage keeps me and millions of others away from doctors, and we may well be better off for it.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I've always felt that the purpose of routine tests and doctor visits is more of a CYA policy for the medical profession. Doctors are afraid of getting sued for missing something.

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6. 71

   lburmasterposted 12 years ago

   No. It is extremely necessary that I keep with my health. It's not just me and my husband anymore

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      As we get older, good health is one of our greatest assets. Developing good habits of sleep, diet, and exercise go a long way.

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7. 96

   Gcrhoads64posted 12 years ago

   I don't have health insurance, so I haven't kept any of my followup medical screenings.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      The high cost of medical tests can be prohibitive. It's important to always ask what is absolutely necessary. Clinics and cash discounts can help when needed.

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8. 60

   Lor's Storiesposted 12 years ago

   I'd love to avoid them but right now I'm up to my ears in tests.
   I put things off depending on the importance of the test.
   If I have a doctors appointment or a blood test, I cancel the blood test and go to the doctors.
   
   I try to put off anything not really bothering me right now.
   My blood will always be there for the taking but my doctor often runs away too soon.

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   1. 63

      cat on a soapboxposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      It's good strategy to ask what is REALLY needed. Blood tests can be a routine request, but then again, they give the doctor a complete look at your metabolic function.

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