4 Words Foundation, Inc.

While most of us know this is happening it still comes as a shock when your first medical procedure/screening/test comes around. Whether you have been healthy with no medical issues or are currently going through some medical challenges; that first call from the hospital or other facility telling you what your financial responsibility will be for your appointment can cause a great deal of anxiety.  For those without insurance it is usually an even bigger concern.

The fact of the matter is that some individuals will actually cancel the screening or test because they cannot afford it.  The holidays are over, the bills are now due from the charges made to their credit cards and other accounts.  

As a Human Resource Manager I understand how medical insurance works.  All medical plans are not created equal.  Some individuals are extremely lucky; their plan may have no deductible/coinsurance.  Other individuals may have plans with moderate to very high deductibles.  These must be met (and paid for by the individual) before their plans begin to pay for services.  All-in-all, those with medical insurance are lucky to have it.  Unfortunately there are many individuals who do not have coverage at all.  Maybe they just don't think they need it, or for most, they just can't afford it.  

This past week I personnally experienced that feeling.  While I knew how my insurance plan worked and what my deductible is, I didn't expect a procedure I was scheduled for to cost that much.  I'm lucky and always put away a little extra each pay period to cover unexpected costs, however most people do not.  That feeling helped remind me how those individuals who reach out to our Foundation feel when they call and ask for help.

Sometimes things like this put why we decided to establish 4 Words Foundation, Inc. into perspective.  A little help goes a long way for those in need.  Sometimes the requests are for a very small amount, other times requests are for much larger amounts.  We try to do whatever we can.

Your health is the most important item on your list to take care of.  While it might seem selfish to think this way, it is really important to those around you.  Those who love you and want you to be part of their lives for a long time.  

Remember - there are ways to get through the potential financial responsibilites you may face while taking care of your health. Just speak with the Financial departments of the hospital/facility.  If you don't ask, you won't know what avenues are available to you. Our community of medical providers are here for you and want you to be healthy - and so do we!

2020 is going to be a great year - start it off with getting your annual health check-up and screenings.  Do it for yourself - Do it for your family.