During these inflationary times, everyone is looking for a bargain, a sale, a percent off sign. But is there such a thing when it comes to healthcare?
Absolutely! Now you don’t want to set your sites on a bargain basement surgeon or unorthodox medical treatments. But there remains a lot less drastic opportunities to save and still receive topnotch care and products. For example, did you know that doctors will often order generic equivalents of brand name medications. When visiting your doctor, ask him or her about reordering your meds. Your family physician, local hospitals and community service organizations connected with your illness or condition are all excellent resources when it comes to finding more economical services.
Look in discount stores and warehouses for bargains to fill your medicine cabinets or sick room. You can find everything from bed sheets to cotton balls. Save on gas and travel time by checking out newspaper ads and mailers and, of course, clip those coupons. Check online for promotional or introductory offers.
When it comes to home healthcare nonmedical or medical, all agencies dip from the same pool when it comes to the hiring of caregivers. They all use the same requirements, the same screening practices and reference checks. Oftentimes the very same caregivers work for any number of agencies.
So I ask you, why pay more? Why not receive the help you need from experienced people who are truly interested in your care and well-being rather than the bottom line. So check around. Ask questions. When you find the most economical choice the real shopping will start.
You must iron out all of the details to make a match with your caregiver. For example: Does he/she speak my language? Are they able to meet my dietary needs when preparing my meals? Are they able to assist with any physical challenges of my daily living? Much more than the money, the most important thing is the quality of care — the perfect match.
Kristin Pitts, owner of Limelight Healthcare, is an experienced healthcare administrator for Los Angeles County. She can be reached at 661-476-5859.