Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The Internet bringing connection

The Internet may be a catalyst for bringing patients and healthcare providers together. For many years now patients have been using the Internet to connect with each other to talk about treatments, rate doctors, etc in a way to build connection because they don’t feel connected to their healthcare providers. Angry and frustrated doctors fed up with the healthcare system may lead the way in building the bridge between doctors and patients. Patients are already using the web to empower themselves so it’s about time that the slow-moving medical system get with the program and make it better. This will lead to better treatment and better doctor-patient experiences.

In other health news…
Parents of children with autism are pressing for autism insurance coverage. According to the Autism Society of America, the lifetime expenses for caring for a child with autism can reach as high as $5 million. Currently House Bill 83 is being considered in Virginia’s General Assembly. It would cap insurance at $36,000 per child per year. Other states have capped at $50,000. Pennsylvania and South Carolina currently have autism insurance mandates. Opponents to the mandates say that the mandates could increase insurance premiums. Many parents feel paying higher rates is worth it.

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