Dooley Noted: 9/25/2014
Four years back, I took a salaried job with benefits.
I was paid less in order to cover the expense of provided healthcare. If you have benefits, then you are, too.
I felt obligated to go to the doctor, just to keep me from being ticked off for not using something for which I paid.
I went three times that year.
Each visit involved a one-hour minimum wait after my appointment was slated. I’d wait again in the treatment room, just for the doctor to take a lousy, brief history and barely touch me, let alone listen to me.
I’d leave with an unfilled prescription and this thought: “I want my $20 copay back.”
After each doctor’s visit, I went to an acupuncturist for my signs and symptoms.
Each time I paid $100 cash.
Each time, I left feeling like I would have paid double for that level of care and attention.
The acupuncturist wasn’t covered by my benefits. But I actually benefitted greatly.
If you chose a job for good benefits, make sure you actually benefit.
If you have benefits out of obligation or fear something will happen, consider what you could be doing to decrease the chances you’ll need to use benefits.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley