Health Care?

I spent most of my day dealing with the health care of my family.

Besides we were playing phone tag with our pediatrician about our 5yo (he's fine), I had my annual physical. I get there...surprised that I apparently scheduled a pap smear (I didn't)..then find out that my insurance might not cover the appointment since my ob/gyn listed my annual gyno exam in June as a regular physical. But that got taken care of and I was given a clean bill of health.

After I get home, I decide to finally call the insurance company to ask about several incorrect billings. First I am told that my doctor's office apparently sending the bills in incorrectly...but they don't actually correct the error unless the patient complains...then you have to go through a ridiculous process. I also ask about some lab fees...despite the literature we were given about our plan that simply states 100% of lab fees are covered...really they are only covered if sent to a specific lab. And, here's the best part, it is MY responsibility to tell my doctor to send it to this specific lab. So...there will be a strong letter sent about that. It should not be the patient's responsibility to tell them where to send lab work...especially since we were never told such a thing. So my hub calls the doctor and they say its the insurance companies errors. Blah.

So then, while I was in the mood. I look at our annual change period information on our current insurance (something I ignored until my hub mentioned that so many people at work were complaining about the changes...what changes?). Basically, my hub's work is changing insurance companies so we have to reverify our existence and select new plans. After spending hours trying to figure out if our current drs were covered and trying to factor in the care the pediatrician just recommended for our middle boy....done and done.

Here's the bottom line...we take the time to read the claims, bills, literature and I don't pay unless I know what I'm paying for. But so many people don't...there are billing errors, coverage and lack of coverage they don't know about...but people just pay for it or go see the doctor expecting to get low-cost care. Health care should not be complicated...I should feel comfortable heading to the dr to the care my family and I need.

Yuck!

A Weighty Battle

Ever since I had my boys, I have kept some weight on. I actual lost all the baby weight at one point (like for a day)...but not really. And now...its official that I should probably lose at least 5lbs, if not 8-10. Overall, my clothes fit well, I feel good, I exercise, I eat relatively well...but I have to admit that number is important...and I don't like that number right now. I also tried on bathing suits last week...that was bad. And when I look at photos, I think...yes, I need to lose a couple. (And then there's the shrinking brother who can't keep weight on).

Yes, I teach fitness classes but I actually work out far less than I used to. I really only work out while I am working...which over the summer is only twice a week. And I often use a good work out as an excuse for an extra treat. So...that is goal #1...more and more balanced exercise.

Overall, I eat well. Lots of fruits and veggies...lots of water...a good balance of proteins. But I love junk food...especially sweets. Did I mention my daughter is taking a baking class and brings home treats to sample everyday! So goal #2 is to cut out most of the treats (but allow some reasonable bites once in awhile). Summer is a good time for this since I hesitate to turn the oven on. But grapes and baby carrots really don't substitute for chips and cookies well enough...but I am trying.

And finally...more rest and relaxation. Turn off the TV and go to bed. Don't worry about the mess and play with the kids. Maybe even go on a date with that man that lives here...what's his name again?

So back to Sparkspeople to track my nutrition and activity. I even took some measurements (I was ordering a suit online). We'll see.

Fitness Friday!!!

Drink more water!

We all should drink 64oz of hydrating liquids each day (caffeine and alcohol don't count). Water is the best choice.

You should drink more if you exercise to the point of sweating (weigh yourself before and after you exercise and drink the difference (if you lost 1lb during exercise, drink 16oz of water)).

Now that the lovely summer humidity is starting, make sure you and your kids drink even more. We like to have re-useable water bottles for each kid and make sure they drink throughout the day.

Taking back our healthcare!

Watching one of my favorite shows....Frontline, Sick Around the World...last night. Like the movie Sicko, it investigated healthcare systems around the world and compared them to the US. I think it was summed up best this way...."We have to take the profit out of healthcare." Since healthcare became a major business in the US, healthcare quality, availability, and affordability has suffered dearly. The other countries' officials and doctors were amazed that Americans go bankrupt over healthcare costs...very few, if any, countries have such an issue.

Another shockingly true statement made: "Healthcare is a human right." Isn't it true that taking care of our society physically and mentally a right of each citizen? Doesn't the government and business want everyone to be healthy and happy? Won't we be a more productive and safe society that way?

I have to laugh when I heard about the many countries that offer free mental health services including spa treatments, Eastern medical practices, and even paid vacation time. We don't even give basic care to everyone...I'd go for free dental and vision care for all.

In our family, it was a requirement that one of us have a job with full health benefits. So we have 'comprehensive' health insurance with dental and vision. So, I can go to the dr when I need to. But I have a $20 co-pay. And my prescriptions cost between $15-60. These co-pays have quadrupled in the past 8 years. I would not hesitate to bring my child to the ER and I don't skip my annual physical. But I do wait to go to the dr for anything minor and I ask my dr for the minimum prescriptions (I take regular medications). And we have insurance. What about those people who don't have anything? Can they afford a $100 dr visit to check out their kid's ears?

I just want to live in a society that I feel like cares about me and everyone equally. A universal healthcare system is essential to our society's survival.

Quickies...

*I did see some of the SAG's last night...in between looking all over for a pacifier so the 2yo would go to sleep. I'm happy The Office and 30 Rock got some recognition. I've never seen the Soprano's so I don't know what is so great about them. Of course...Old Country did well...but I have no plans on seeing it. Julie Christie seemed a bit disoriented last night...still in character? I think of her as Lara.

*I haven't commented on it yet but Heath Ledger's death really bothers me. Perhaps its because he is younger than me or that he is a dad. But I was almost in tears during the Daniel Day Lewis' tribute to him as well as the photo montage.

*Found out today I need to redo a root canal and crown from 10 years ago...doesn't that sound like fun!

*Thinking about a Sam's Club membership...any thoughts?

*Watched the documentary Hairworld yesterday. Its like the Olympics of hair styling. If you didn't know it, you might think it was the sequel to Waiting for Guffman (one of the characters is just like Parker Posey's). But really...it was fascinating.

*Saw the Brazilian music group Desafinado at the library. They are awesome! Something about Portuguese is so beautiful.

*Listened to one of my favorite NPR shows yesterday too...Says You. I just love that show! Oh course, Prairie Home Companion is a favorite as well...but I don't always catch it.

*Got our tickets for the 3D Hannah Montana concert at the Beverly. There are $15 (which is more than a movie but far less than a concert). My husband and I have to draw straws to see which is forced to go. FYI, Go Diego Go Live! is coming to the Assembly Hall Feb 25-26th.

Quickies from the Sickie

*I really want my computer back. We sent it in to get it fixed (motherboard problem..whatever that is...maybe there will replace the missing keys the 2yo took off). So, I have use of my hubby's computer...when he is home. Its been forever...ok, about 2 weeks.

*I am already tired of election coverage. Ok, I watched the last Democratic debate...by chance really. But my husband wanted to watch the tv all night for the NH primary. This is ridiculous. The actual presidential election is in November! Then there's the 'emotional' breakdown of Hillary. If that is what we are calling emotional...then I am hysterical most of the time. Was it fake? Did it win NH for her? Did women eat it up? Who will ever know...who will even care in a couple weeks. I've heard everyone's speech... Honestly, from what Anderson Cooper says...my favorite CNN host (ok, I like to look at him more than anything else), there is no clear candidate on either side. And I really like a little bit of each of them (I really ignore the Republicans, sorry). I wish they would pretend like they get a long and were a team (which after Feb they will). Looks like Edwards may be our next VP.

*All I want is to watch some mindless TV before bed...too bad. Couldn't they at least run some reruns? At least Jon Stewart is back!

*I have been feeling terrible lately. First of all...I am NOT pregnant...I don't want any emails telling me I am or family rumors going around. But I sure feel like it. Actually my hormones are crazy right now because I have finally begun to wean the little milkaholic. I have been pregnant and nursing for 5 years now. To finally stop is a big change...and my body is not adjusting well. The dr can give me more artificial hormones to help...no, thanks. I will just ride it out...

*Went to the library today...it was lovely. Very quiet and relaxing. The kids still wanted to walk all over (the little one looking for Clifford). We sat, read, and played for over an hour. Then we watched the digger clean out the old library.

*I am now Sudoku-addicted. But I can't do it with a lot of noise around so I do one set after the kids are tucked in. Then I make myself put it away.

*Happy 80th Birthday to my Grandma today...she's sitting in Vegas at the slot machines. You go girl!

New Year's Resolutions

So many people vow to get in shape for the New Year...and the Fitness Center in Champaign and Monticello is offering a great deal to help you achieve that goal.

For 1 day only...join the FC for $1!
New Year's Day from 11am-4pm sign up for just $1!

They are also starting a Lost It at the Club weight loss and fitness program in January. We'll help you lose those holiday pounds.

Obviously, we love the FC (I work there and have worked out there for years). It is a great family-orientated gym with free, on-site childcare! Lots of classes, cardio machines, weights, personal trainers, special programs...and more.

Check it out. Stop in and take a tour or stay for a class. Just think...the gym is the only place to take a shower without anyone bothering you.

Joining a gym can be expensive but if you look for the right time to join, it can be great. Many gyms offer special deals in January...watch out for them. It is an investment in your health and well-being and will save you money in medical costs in the future.


**If you don't want to join a gym but need something to get your going...check out Discovery Health's National Body Challenge or Sparks People. These are both free programs to help you integrate exercise and healthy eating into your life.