Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Robbing Peter to pay Paul?

I'm weighing in support for subsidizing chiropractic services. $12.25 a pop seems relatively cheap when compared to payment for other services that would be utilized if those in need cannot afford a chiropractor without the subsidy. The relief from pain and suffering should not be discounted but it seems that the almighty dollar is the issue.

Many years ago, after a car accident, I suffered back pain and migraines for a couple of years. At the government's expense I was referred and funded for specialists, physiotherapy and prescription medication. I lost months of work time. On the advice of a friend, and I was at the end of my rope, I saw a chiropractor. Within a couple of months of treatment all was well. I was lucky that I could afford the treatment as it was not then covered.

If the rationale for cancellation of chiropractic subsidies is that other health services are not covered, and the Minister mentions optometrists and massage therapists, then he should consider looking at funding them as well. I would think that good eye care is as important as any other aspect of our physical being.

So one more time folks - if you have to hold the line on spending during budget recovery put some of the mega projects on hold.

2 comments:

  1. Totally agree, Mistres. But, it looks like the government is going to announce a new school in Willowgrove tomorrow....and, where will the money come from for this one? It looks like they're already into a spending spree before next year's election....

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  2. "Many years ago, after a car accident, I suffered back pain and migraines for a couple of years. At the government's expense I was referred and funded for specialists, physiotherapy and prescription medication. I lost months of work time. On the advice of a friend, and I was at the end of my rope, I saw a chiropractor. Within a couple of months of treatment all was well. I was lucky that I could afford the treatment as it was not then covered. "

    That's what insurance should be doing, covering medical expenses, including chiropracters. If SGI doesn't cover those expenses, then the problem is with SGI, not the chiropractor subsidy.

    The same goes for Medicare coverage -- if we could legally purchase private medical insurance, we could potentially have chiropractic support if given a debilitating injury.

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