Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Fla., Barbara Peters Smith column
While politicians and corporations slice and dice patient populations to separate the profitable from the money-losers -- which, by the way, is the exact opposite of the "shared risk" concept on which insurance is supposed to be based -- we are all reduced to the role of solo negotiators, trying to read the fine print and tea leaves to discern where our best interests lie. If you don't have a graduate-level degree in health care economics, it's tough stuff to understand. But this is America, so it's time to show initiative and accept personal responsibility for your health and welfare.
If you are eligible for Medicare, this year's enrollment period runs until
As last week's story about a stalemate between
Medicare Advantage -- as opposed to the combo of traditional Medicare Part B and a supplemental insurance policy -- can make sense if you expect to remain in tiptop shape and want to gamble that saving money now won't cost you later. (For details, see
The same is true for the low-premium, high-deductible policies filtering back into the general health care marketplace. Just know that it's pretty much still true that you get what you pay for, and if you're not adequately insured, you'll need to be really lucky.
Daunted yet? You do need to make these choices yourself, but you don't have to suffer alone. Medicare enrollees can call 800-963-5337 or visit floridashine.org to find guidance from trained volunteers. And -- even though the number of insurance exchange navigators has been sliced dramatically in these prickly times -- help is still available for Obamacare consumers: Call 877-813-9115, or visit coveringflorida.org.
Energy Express in town
The irrepressibly enthusiastic wellness coach
If you enjoy Preston's mix of lifestyle cheerleading and highly personal takes on everything from public health to soulfulness, you'll have two chances to meet and greet her. She will join
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