There is a myth people “in the gap” are non-working people. I see these women in my clinic — they are our waitresses, housekeepers, medical assistants and childcare providers. They work more than one part-time job and cannot obtain or afford traditional health insurance.
Early detection is key to improving health and reducing medical costs. Having a urinary tract infection treated in a medical office is more affordable than an Emergency Department visit. The average cost to treat a UTI in an office is $110.00, compared to $750.00 in an ER.
As a Nurse Practitioner in Sandpoint I see the results of delay in diagnosis. I see the increased cost when chasing a problem which could have been dealt with proactively. It’s always less expensive and less traumatic to screen and give patients preventive care. A vote in favor of Proposition 2 will help the medical providers give appropriate, timely and cost effective care.
Cynthia Dalsing, ARNP
Sandpoint
