The current economic situation is forcing families to make some difficult choices. Some of these choices involve health care for their family members. In a recent survey cited in the The Wall Street Journal, "22% of 686 consumers said that economy-related woes were causing them to go to the doctor less often. About 11% said they've scaled back on prescription drugs to save money."

Although it seems prudent to save money by putting off annual physicals or well baby exams, it can be detrimental to long-term health and cause higher healthcare costs. Particularly for family members struggling with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, trying to save money by cutting back can create new problems. National health experts say that patients' care cutbacks could lead to more medical problems and higher spending down the road. As more people forgo screenings or put off treatment, minor medical problems can become serious complications. Once hospitalization is required, the expenses will become significant and will have staggering long-term financial impacts.

Physicians can assist patients in finding cost-effective medical alternatives. There may be new generic drugs that would be helpful and may be less expensive. Sound Family Medicine offers "Simple Care," a program for people with no insurance that provides discounted rates for office visits depending on the length of the visit. Also, there is a website called http://www.needymeds.org and one called http://www.rxhelpforwa.org/ where drug companies offer prescription medications at reduced rates. There is a link to these sites on http://soundfamilymedicine.com/resources-green/health_links.htm.

SFM offers an easy reference tool entitled "How Often Do I Need to See the Doctor." This resource contains the basic vaccines, exams and screening tests recommended for babies, kids and adults. Especially during times of stress, the best advice is to try to get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet with lots of vegetables and exercise regularly.

Exercise doesn't have to cost money, your doctor can provide some examples, but it can be a brisk walk through the neighborhood, running up and down the stairs in your home, push-ups, jumping rope or doing squats on a dining room chair. Any combination of things that gets your heart pumping is good for your physical and mental health.

Reference: The Wall Street Journal, Monday, September 22, 2008, "Consumers Cut Back on Health-Care Spending." Vanessa Fuhrmans.