Yikes, what’s happened with the economy? Even the model above is raising his hand in protest. Goods and Services are more expensive since the COVD-19 pandemic. Increased costs began with global supply chain issues and shortages, but inflation (and greed) seem to have fixed onto prices everywhere. 45% of Americans rate the economy today as “poor” and many think it’s getting worse (1), despite a robust job market and economic metrics.
In the face of challenging economic pressures, how can most of us budget on important complimentary care like Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine?
First, to face the hard fact- if you feel ill, everything is colored by your feeling ill. Taking care of your health is the most fundamental thing you must do for yourself and those who count on you. My friend Dr. Sadiq Sheraze, D.C. says, “What if we were educated to believe our human body and experience were as valuable as a Ferrari?” How would we act if we considered our own bodies as equal in value?
The great news is most major insurance plans already cover excellent complimentary care. If you’re not maximizing your Health Insurance benefits, you’re not maximizing your money. I’m one of the few Licensed Acupuncturists in Santa Rosa that accepts insurance policies, and it’s radically easy for me (or you) to check your benefits online. You can contact me here right now to do so.
Setting aside $10-50 per paycheck for personal health expenses is a good move. You can establish a Health Savings Account (HSA), which provides you with a non-taxable account to pay for a myriad of health care. Common insurance copayments are $15, so that’s very workable. And also asking your provider for a flexible rate plan or discount is always an option.
In considering the question of the Ferrari, our lives are much more valuable than any material object. The preciousness and awe of human life must be tended to, and in that way, budgeting for your wellbeing is one of the most important line items to prioritize.
Image: Christina Kung, Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0
References:
(1) Editorial Board, “Voters are Right; Inflation is a Bear”. Press Democrat, April 5, 2024.
Ramsey Solutions, “What is an HSA?”. Accessed 4/9/22. https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/what-is-an-hsa