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Socio-Economic Needs in the Hospital- A Personal Perspective
Introduction
The last time we got to the hospital, we were going to get treatment for my cousin who had a middle ear infection which was pretty bad. Luckily for us, Dr. Philips was there and she's absolutely a wonderful and caring doctors. I don't know what we would have done without here- she's helped us so much!
Looking back at the experience and contemplating this subject of socioeconomic problems after our last visit to the hospital, I realize not too many people realize this, but this subject has critical importance to millions of people worldwide. It is of course contingent on where you're from, as in certain countries the healthcare and welfare systems are functioning properly and fulfilling their purposes to the best degree possible, while at the same time there are entire countries that lack appropriate systems, causing extreme socio-economic problems.
When we mention socio-economic problems relating to hospital visiting, we generally talk about not having a health insurance. The sad reality of today is that there are so many people without a decent health insurance, and when they are in need of proper medical care, they cannot get the proper medical services and treatments due to their lack of money. This may seem absurd of false but in reality this is very common and millions today still don't have health insurance. This leads them to fend for themselves when it comes to medical treatments they need.
What happened to us
The first and best example I have to provide regarding this matter is that of my seventeen year old cousin with her ear infection. The socio-economic problems in her case were quite apparent. She, who came in due to a very painful middle ear infection, also suffered greatly because she couldn't open her mouth fully. Her infection was so severe that the doctor stated that she had to go to an ENT specialist. Clearly, specialists cost money, and the amount one has to pay for them is obviously greater than that one has to pay for regular hospital services.
My cousin subsequently didn't want to go to the ENT specialist. The reason for her hesitance is that she doesn't have a health insurance. This means that she'll have to pay very large sums of money in order to go see that specialist. This is probably a sum she simply cannot afford. I wanted to help her so much, but there was nothing I can do for her!
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