Don’t Scrimp On Health Care During Challenging Times
Stress about the economic crisis seems to be getting worse by the day, but doctors at Baylor College of Medicine warn that now is not the time to put your heart health on the back burner.
Dr. Christie Ballantyne, chief of the section of atherosclerosis and vascular medicine at BCM and the director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at the Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, says it is not a good idea to cut out a doctor’s visit or medication to try to save money.
Communicate concerns
Since stress increases blood pressure and heart strain and could cause other poor health habits, eliminating a doctor’s visit could potentially increase risk for major damage ““ and in the long run could cost even more.
"The most important thing right now is to communicate all concerns to your doctor," said Ballantyne. "That includes cost concerns."
Rather than assuming you can’t afford something, talk to your provider and see what payment options can be worked out. For costly prescriptions, there could be a generic alternative or a combination of drugs that is offered at a lower cost. Another option might be to buy pills of twice the needed dosage and then cut each pill in two, rather than cutting the normal dosage in half to prolong the prescription.
"These tips won’t work for everybody. That’s why a doctor’s advice is needed," he said. "You won’t know about what can be done to help you until you ask."
Nutrition important for heart health
Molly Gee, a nutritionist at BCM, said good heart health should be a part of everyone’s economic plan.
"You really can’t afford to become sick right now, and part of this is self responsibility," said Gee.
For those in good health, the easiest way to prevent future problems is to watch your diet. It’s possible to reduce calories and save money, even when eating out. Consider splitting a meal or putting half the meal in a "to-go" box for later.
"Ask for the to-go box along with the entrée, so you can put half of the food aside immediately," said Gee. "This helps with portion control and keeps some money in your wallet."
—
On the Net: