Americans just tell you it’s a slight headache. In reality their back is so screwed up it’s going to require surgery but they can’t afford that and complaining about actual pain is strictly forbidden in American men.
So we take 200 400 800 1600 Motrin, with some bourbon, and ignore it as best as we can.
This is my mother for the last year or so because of rotoscoliosis, a bulging disc, and arthritis in her shoulders.
She can’t really get any form of treatment because the only insurance she can afford is a high-deductable plan, which means she would have to pretty much pay for the entire treatment out of pocket.
Would flying to Europe and getting healthcare there be cheaper? Look into it.
The good thing about the HDHPs is the availability to have an HSA.
HSA money is collected pre-tax. Balances over a certain amount can be invested. But the good thing about it is that it’s yours to keep. Not like an FSA that disappears at the end of a year.
So she could save up for the deductible for her surgery for her debilitating chronic pain over the course of several years. After she pays thousands in premiums and her employer pays thousands more. Like a good American.
I’m sure we’ll get there next election!
(Says half of America every 4 years)
