Why is it that people here in the Quad Cities, or across the country for that matter, feel so dissatisfied with their healthcare – enough to make reform of the health system a national priority and source of social anxiety unlike anything we’ve experienced in the last thirty years?
We think the answer may be disturbingly simple:
People feel they are powerless in the political debate and don’t know their options to make informed healthcare decisions for themselves or their families.
Considering the high unemployment rate, rising insurance premiums and higher deductibles, health care costs are often at the very heart of family budgetary stress. We know patients are putting off surgeries, forgoing life-saving screenings, and hoping the next illness won’t create a financial crisis at home.
What can you do?
There are ways you can ensure you or your family receives the healthcare you deserve: Be curious. Get informed. And play an active role in your health and healthcare decisions. There are ways to see a doctor you need; undergo a surgery or procedure that is cost-effective; and not lose time away from work or life.
Not sure how to do that?
That’s what Patient Power is all about. Our articles, investigations and case studies are intended to encourage you to be curious and ask the questions you need to have answered the next time you’re meeting with a healthcare provider. Patients have the power, it’s time to flex the muscles.
Your interest will get the attention of your doctors and healthcare professionals.
It’s certainly got ours.
You may also find these articles to be of some value:
- Finding Dr. Right – how to find the right specialist at the right time.
- Beating the Healthcare Squeeze
- Eight Ways to Reduce your 2010 Healthcare Bills
