Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Let's Talk Understanding

As a caregiver for my 65 five year old mother life can be challenging. There are times when I am capable of handling all the responsibilities that come with caring for her and there are times when I need outside help and a little understanding.

I dropped my mother off to Elder Care Services today. I followed my normal routine;however, mother was drowsy today due to medicines I had given her and perhaps the weather. Once I dropped her off at Elder Care she was there for about an  hour then one of the staff members called to ask me to come pick my mother up. 
I felt frustrated because it was as though she wanted me to drop everything and come and get my mom right then. I had just arrived at work. The staff member failed to understand my position, and I don't think I did a very good job of understanding hers either which resulted in a gridlock in communication.

What is understanding the position of another? It is seeing a situation from the point of view of someone else. This can be risky behavior because it can force you to see your own faults and shortcomings. A facility which offers care and services often times has to give more than mere physical support, and today emotional support was lacking at Elder Day Care. I found this to be extremely disappointing because I regarded this facility as one that was dedicated to not only the clients needs, but the families needs as well. Yet, after my experience today I have come to the realization that we are all self-absorbed individuals.

We can become so consumed with ourselves that we fail the realize that our fellow brother or sister may be in need of assistance. This assistance can come in the form of a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a smile. Whatever the case may be understanding unites people whereas the lack of can divide.  Understanding creates harmony and not discord among people with varying points of views. There would be less wars and conflicts if we can begin to understand one another. It's not hard to be compassionate nor is it difficult to accept the differences of others. May we begin to understand one another to build a better world.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Health Care


It’s the cold and flu season and unfortunately I found myself under the weather. When this happens there are certain activities I try to avoid. One of those activities would be going to see a doctor. After all , their primary concern is treating the problem or the symptoms as to what brings a patient into their office in the first place.  The reason for my recent doctor’s was because I was losing my voice. It’s funny how some of us don’t take action on something until it affects us directly, and my voice has a direct link to my occupation.  So, I had to determine what was causing my voice to leave me, off to the doctor I went. WhenI arrived in the office the atmosphere is calm and I feel at peace, but talking with the office assistant is horrible. First, I have to share that I am paying out of pocket for my visit-which ultimately means I don’t have insurance. Next, I am told, in an uncertain manner, that I have an outstanding balance and can’t be seen until I pay it.  I am unaware of a bill seeing as I had insurance at the time of the doctor’s visit.  but was ignorant as to how my coverage worked. I  shake my head because I fail to understand my personal health coverage. 

Although my visit with the physician went well, I wasn't satisfied with the experience. I was frustrated regarding my  ignorance to the health care system. Why do I owe money when my health insurance should have covered a routine visit? I finally decided to take action for my role in what I have created, but I am realizing there are times in life when you have to pay attention to details and if you fail to do so it can cause frustration which can lead to trouble. I am grateful I had the ability to pay for the outstanding balance; however, I am infuriated about my failure to comprehend a system supposedly in existence to help me. All of my frustration turned to mush. literally when the doctor who treated me call me personally to tell me about some samples that would help treat my the acute laryngitis. I realized that it's not the The healthcare system. It is  the appropriat people within the system. I was beginning to fell as if health care was simplyt a money making entity just like any other business. I realized with one phone call that there are still compassionate people who are concerned with the well being of others. As a health care consumer I still need to educate myself on the health care industry in order to make appropriate health care plans.

The idea of being overwhelmed stresses me out and it’s enough to send me to see a doctor. Yet, if I can remain do what's necessary to maintain my health; I can maintain my wealth and create and design a life around those things I hold most valuable.  I must remain committed to knowing what healthcare actions and policies will affect me. Being alive  is a learning process. Since it can be challenging grasping an understanding of your individual health coverage, it becomes imperative to ask lots of questions.  Although you have health insurance, this doesn’t mean it will pay for all your health care needs in some cases in may only cover a part of them. A lesson well learned; be knowledgeable of what your insurance covers , and create a plan targeted for potential health care needs.