Can you honestly believe the incredible difference in home
health care as opposed to nursing home care? Is it even possible to imagine
that it is only $93 a day for part time home health visits rather than the $523
a day for nursing home care for the elderly population (Cowles, 2003,
p.194)? Chapter 5 made my stomach stink
when I read how terribly difficult it is to be an elderly person (85+) in today’s
society with the growing cost of health care, medicines, medical facility, etc.
Our book even quotes it as “the medicalization of social problems” (Cowles,
2003, p. 194). Medicaid and Medicare are seen as the lifesaver to most people
that don’t understand the fine print but in all reality, this so called
insurance policy is nothing more than a way for the government to gain their
extra money off the less fortunate. Chapter 5 really made me upset to realize
that people have worked so hard for so long and their benefit is this incredibly
expensive medical support system.
I do now
realize that it must be such a hard job to be a home health nurse or care for
someone that is disabled but in their own home. It always makes me want to help
my family members more that need addition help because I now realize the
expense health care workers come with. The NASW (National Association of Social
Workers) must make so many people very proud. They work “to achieve an
appropriate continuum of care, assuring the clients of ongoing services to meet
their needs” (Cowles, 2003, p. 212). Learning
about different social workers in the home, hospitals, mental health
facilities, etc. has made me incredibly proud of the heart that these said
people have and their dedication to their job despite the government’s lack of
support, funding, & understanding.
Cowles, L. A. Fort (2003). Social Work in Home Health Care/Home Care. Social work
in the health field: a care
perspective (2nd ed., pp. 187-230). New York: Haworth Social Work Practice
Press
Yes, it is a sad thing that even though the government offers the medicate, Medicare, and other healthcare discount, only a little percentage is used. Not all people who need care are eligible for those kind of things. However, the good thing is the percentage for care is getting higher.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree it is sad and does make you sick to your stomach to imagine the cost of becoming old. It is suppose to be the relaxing years of our lives, but yet we use all of our money on medicines, doctor appointments and care. I think it is great when families engage in helping while their love one is no longer able to do, but it does come with a ton of extra requirements most know nothing about.
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