getting results from the insurance company

One of my most important suggestions when working with any insurance company over the phone, especially your prescription coverage insurance, when it appears as if you are getting the run around from whomever you are speaking to immediately stop the conversation with them and ask to speak to their supervisor. They will usually tell you the supervisors are in a meeting, not there, on mars, whatever. Don't stop there. Remain polite, but firm with the person you are talking to. Tell them you will stay on the phone until the superviror returns from the meeting, mars etc. Keep notes as to whom you are speaking with, date, time of day, etc. Be very clear about what your problem with the insurnace is and that you will not give up until there is a solution for you. If you do not have a fax machine, have the number of a fax at a company nearby (like kinkos), so the person you are talking to can fax verification of any solution (if you think this extra step is necessary for confirmation of the supervisor's assisting you). Do not give up nor accept any ridiculous explanation i.e. your doctor's office never called nor faxed us the information needed. (and you know they did because you just spoke with them and the pharmacist). Ask the manager or supervisor for a number to reach them, should there be any need for follow up. You may want to verify any resolution by calling on your cell the other party, while you stillhave the supervisor on thephone with you.

initial physician selection

If you are in the position and have the time, now that the internet makes searching so easy, find out about the person who is going to be working with you. Having a great family doctor is the first step. They will go to bat for you in a pinch. When your family physician needs you to be flexible i.e. He or she has an emergency with another patient waiting in a room, just when they are about to step in the room to see you, let he or she take care of the emergency and then see you. Your physician will help you if you ever need the same treatment.
I now know to ask any doctor who will be performing a procedure on you, how many have they done the procedure and the outcome percentages, their educational background etc.
You want someone who has done the procedure quite often. And you want to schedule the procedure on a Tues. in the morning. Wednesday and Thursday are ok too, but not in the afternoon if you can avoid this. Everyone is tired. And you may not want to be the first procedure of the day. Myrz

Today

I have taken a break from everything, but this laptop. I have limited access to a laptop, so today I am working on this first blog. Avoid getting disabled in the first place, this means don't live in a body that is vulnerable... which at this stage is impossible...and stay away from physicians in training or have major issues. And being poor is suffocating. But being without health insurance would put you on the street faster than Dorothy clicking those famous slippers.

First tip

First: make sure you have eaten a healthy meal before you have any contact with those in health care or insurance because you have to be centered.