Response to Joann Taylor

Write a response to the article Working in a healthcare facility, we have been seeing a decline in patients seeking treatment or putting off routine physicals due to the increase in deductibles and co-payments. Our statistics have declined in the last couple years with the recession and subsequent increase in payments that must be made by the patient. however, as they put off routine visits, the acquity is higher when the patients do come in as the earlier visit could have prevented the occurrence As Emergency room co-payments have increased upwards of $100, patients also try to use Urgent care visits that tend to have lower co-payments. This means some patients with problems that need actual emergency room attention, show up at urgent care areas for their treatment.

As a consumer in my organization, we do have a choice between insurances. What is best for the consumer is dependent on their health and well-being. Cheaper premiums come with higher deductibles and ou-of-pocket expenses, which is fine if you rarely use your insurance. For those that are on routine medications and have visits to the doctor on a more regular vist, paying a little more for better coverage is the best way to go. As with all things, cheaper is not always better. My facility has two options and one only has a $20/month premium, however, all the payments for out-of-pocket up to a large amount will be paid before any insurance coverage exists. $20/month for coverage is great if you never plan on really using the insurance. The other option has a higher premium but meets the out-of-pocket with deductibles and co-payments on a less scale, not more than 20% per visit.