Just thought, in light of this latest medical change that I’d talk about my health care team. Yep, I actually have a team of pretty cool people keeping an eye on me. I didn’t plan it this way, but there are many health care professionals going to bat for this warped brain and body.
My Dr. was born in Nigeria, and he is the best health care professional I have ever run into. He’s thorough, smart, caring and knowledgeable. He actually checks everything, and looks into avenues and why I have been previously diagnosed as a, b, or c. He runs tests, and keeps track of all the results over a period of time. I can email or call with a question, and he makes sure to get back to me asap. He looks at all my medications, and pulls me off of things instantly when I react to them. He also is very aware of my alcoholism and drug addiction, and will not prescribe something to me blindly without concern for my well-being. (By the way he also has an iPad. 
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His nursing staff just rock, we end up talking and laughing a bit, but they are helping me keep an eye on my diabetes and general health concerns. They have great suggestions, and ideas that have improved my life in so many ways. They care about me, and look after me, showing me how to take care of my body especially as it changes.
My diabetic educators include a registered dietician as well as a diabetic nurse educator. They make sure that I understand what exactly is happening when I test my blood sugar, take any medication, or need to change my medications in any way. They counsel me on exercise, diet, and the care and maintenance of my body.
My physical trainers, both through SilverSneakers, and the local YMCA have been kept informed of my medical condition, and have given me an exercise program that is tailored for me and my disabilities.
I have a 24 hour nursing staff available to me over the phone and internet to answer any questions, as well as contact my Dr. if I have any problems. They also triple check my medications for interactions, as well as monitor how I am using them.
I have an online pharmacy staff and pharmacy who send me 3/4 of my medications at no cost to me. It’s covered under my insurance.
Now, in case you are wondering, how is all of this getting paid for?
It’s part of a medicare supplement plan that I pay quite a bit of money for. However, I have done the math on this.
Even with the copays, monthly premium, and other considerations, I am still saving money. Yet I am getting the care I desperately need at this time. Yet my medical bills over the past three years have accumulated into the thousands, before this new insurance. I figure, in the long run, it is much cheaper to maintain and improve my physical health, than to pay for an amputation, dialysis or other serious procedure.
Do I deserve all of this help? No. I don’t think so. However, here’s the real math. This type of care runs into 1/3 of my monthly income. I get a disability check, that never increases. My life, quality of life really, has not improved up until this point even though I have been on disability for a few years now.
I figure that in the long run, I’d rather pay for health care, than cable tv, internet, or even this website. I am worth it.
a.k.
AnonymousKnitter 
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