[ ARC forum 2 ]
Written by Jim at 21 Sep 2002 21:58:53: Re: A question about BXO
As an answer to: Re: A question about BXO written by Sam De Costa at 21 Sep 2002 20:58:21:
An article in this morning's local newspaper reported of an increase in premiums for the medical insurance coverage of county employees will rise up to 41% over last year's costs. When we look at what pharmaceutical treatments really cost, it's quite clear that there's some price gouging occuring.
I was astounded recently when I learned of the true cost of a little tube of medicine prescribed by my dermatologist. Of course, most people would consider only the $5.00 copay to be their cost, wouldn't they?
In a conversation with a friend of mine who does medical billing for physicians, I learned that many doctors are hard pressed to eke out a profit for the enormous amount of time spent in running their businesses (that doesn't count with the specialists BTW). Often, up to two hours per day is spent just in filling out reports such that the insurance companies will pay for the procedures. I would suggest that it is not only the pharmaceutical companies, but, in addition, the insurance companies which are attempting to control society. Take careful note that the insurance companies don't believe in losses. They simply pass on the costs to their customers without shame. I'd not be surprised to learn that there is a huge conspiracy between the drug companies and the insurance companies to add to the tremendous profits of each. That coupled with unscrupulous specialists who advise cutting as a remedy for every ailment do indeed create an epidemic of enormous proportions.
This is all the more reason that young men such as we see visiting here, take charge of their situations and solve them at no cost. Those seeking surgical relief are just adding fuel to the fire of rising costs, and there could easily come a day when no one can afford medical care for fractures and other serious and real medical problems.