Editor,
I’d like to tell you about a recent medical experience. A loved one had a medical crisis. I was worried about ER charges, so I quickly researched the nearest, in-network urgent care facility. I knew urgent care charges an office visit co-pay, while ER charges are unpredictable. The urgent care facility referred us to the ER. We declined an ambulance, knowing it would cost thousands. I again checked that the nearest hospital ER was in-network before driving there.
At the ER, the person checking in ahead of us explained she had not been on her diabetes medication for a year because she could not afford it.
After the ER doctor’s examination, my loved one was admitted to the hospital and stayed several days. We were lucky: The hospital stay was covered by her employer insurance plan. However, we were billed $1,000 because the ER doctor was not in-network.
Look at the medical billing anxiety that drove my decisions. Look at the huge bill we got, even with meticulous care to avoid that problem.
We pay huge medical premiums, and our deductible is thousands of dollars. I am not concerned about the “cost” of CalCare. I protest the inhuman conditions Californians live in, and the oppressive system that makes us fearful to ask for medical help.
Dustin Chase
San Mateo
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(3) comments
If you think it's bad now wait until our state government that can't run a DMV, build a bridge or repair a dam takes over our health care. Better to fix what we have.
Mr. Chase – isn’t this “universal” CA health care a form of golden handcuffs for current residents? After all, once people move out of CA, they’ve lost their entire “investment” and are on their own, potentially reaping no, or minimal, “rewards.” On the other hand, people who require more health care will remain in CA to be subsidized by the relatively healthy. Orr people from other states that require more health care will move to CA, receive their “universal” health care and then potentially return to their “real” homes. Of course, this is assuming health care facilities or doctors remain in the state. Chances are if their reimbursement rates are not comparable to other states, they will eventually leave.
Dustin, thank you for your input.
I have been an advocate for "Single Payer Healthcare" ever since SB840 was passed and vetoed by Arnie another CONSERVATIVE profit minded individual who does not care about others. Most of them live in fear for themselves and not others.
I feel it's insane as someone on Medicare who pays more for a supplement to cover the 20% that Medicare doesn't.
I have never had a problem with choosing my Doctors or care.
Please support AB1400.
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