$20,000 is what the State of Minnesota requires for auto insurance companies to cover for health related costs for each accident. I was rear-ended and immediately felt some whiplash pain. I visited a chiropractor the next day and have seen her thrice per week ever since the injury. I procured some medication for the pain, got x-rayed, and visited a message therapist once per week. After one month, I was finally feeling better.
Well, my auto insurance company is objected to my aggressive treatment. They refuse to pay the bills, some of which I paid out of my pocket, until I receive an Independent Medical Exam (IME). They will pay for a medical doctor to conduct the IME and because they are paying for the exam, the doctor has incentive to rule in their favor. I will probably be informed that I don’t qualify for any more treatment. I spoke with a lawyer and he said that IME’s only rule in favor of the patient about 30% of the time. I could hire him to appeal a negative ruling but it would cost money.
I have to choose between health and money. I fear being stuck with the medical bill and pain. I cannot afford any charges. The accident has already cost a lot of time but money is a bigger concern right now. I cancelled all the future messages and a meeting with a neurologist. The chiropractor said that she would “eat” to cost if the insurance company refused to pay the bill. Lily is an independent practitioner so she is being very magnanimous. I will barter my skills to pay for services because I wouldn’t feel comfortable having her lose funds. Sadly, the massage was just as helpful as acupuncture. I don't have health care insurance to cover any of the bills.
The lawyer stated that Travelers and State Farm are more supportive of their clients. I shall switch to one of those companies as soon as my health issues are resolved. I refuse to stay with a company that does not honor its pledge to customers. Meanwhile, I am really scared about the exam. At the very least, they should pay for all the bills to the point of the exam.
Insurance Companies = Mafia
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Showing posts with label auto accident. Show all posts
Showing posts with label auto accident. Show all posts
Friday, March 29, 2013
Saturday, March 23, 2013
BLEAK HOUSE
The past several years have been an extremely difficult period in my life. My terrible journey was published on March 12th. As you know, I deal with low-grade anxiety every day. The anxiety makes me fret. Worry interrupts my concentration, causes nervous eating, insomnia, and low self-esteem. The worst-case scenario leads to panic attack, nausea, and irritable bowel syndrome, yuck.
I have learned how to keep most of the symptoms of anxiety at bay by employing organization to reduce stress. Accomplishing a task or two each day improves my mood. I like to be occupied but not too busy. I need some quiet time to recharge myself. I can become overwhelmed by too much of anything such as noise, smells, vibrations, or visual stimulation. Bright sunshine or intense lights can cause me discomfort. Despite having a high IQ (which is situational), I fall slightly into the autistic spectrum with a touch of Aspburgers just to make life interesting.
During that horrible week I was besieged by all my problems. My anxiety peaked along with physical pain from the auto accident. The combination sent me spinning towards depression. Depression plus anxiety is pure hell. You feel anxious about being miserable and too down in the dumps to reduce the angst that causes the blues. It’s a horrid situation. Thankfully, I realized it after I wrote the blog entry and was able to pull myself away from the pit of despair.
I am feeling much better now. No, my challenges have not vanished but I refuse to permit them to vex me. The only thing that I can control is my reaction. I choose not to fall into that sink-hole again. Each day is a battle but I shall survive. I sought out friends to share my woes. They offered sympathy and well wishes. I have to concentrate on the people who do like me and forget about those who are ambivalent or negative (my family).
If you are ever feeling sad or negative, seek help. You deserve to be happy and positive. I met with a kind counselor on a regular basis and developed methods to cope with the emotional roller coaster of life. There are many free or low cost mental health resources available, just research them in your community. Find an experienced, licensed, and professional therapist and explore behavioral methods to thwart the agony. Don’t worry; be happy or at least neutral.
Zozo’s breathing is still a concern. I'll write more about that at another time.
Keep on Truckin’.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
I have learned how to keep most of the symptoms of anxiety at bay by employing organization to reduce stress. Accomplishing a task or two each day improves my mood. I like to be occupied but not too busy. I need some quiet time to recharge myself. I can become overwhelmed by too much of anything such as noise, smells, vibrations, or visual stimulation. Bright sunshine or intense lights can cause me discomfort. Despite having a high IQ (which is situational), I fall slightly into the autistic spectrum with a touch of Aspburgers just to make life interesting.
During that horrible week I was besieged by all my problems. My anxiety peaked along with physical pain from the auto accident. The combination sent me spinning towards depression. Depression plus anxiety is pure hell. You feel anxious about being miserable and too down in the dumps to reduce the angst that causes the blues. It’s a horrid situation. Thankfully, I realized it after I wrote the blog entry and was able to pull myself away from the pit of despair.
I am feeling much better now. No, my challenges have not vanished but I refuse to permit them to vex me. The only thing that I can control is my reaction. I choose not to fall into that sink-hole again. Each day is a battle but I shall survive. I sought out friends to share my woes. They offered sympathy and well wishes. I have to concentrate on the people who do like me and forget about those who are ambivalent or negative (my family).
If you are ever feeling sad or negative, seek help. You deserve to be happy and positive. I met with a kind counselor on a regular basis and developed methods to cope with the emotional roller coaster of life. There are many free or low cost mental health resources available, just research them in your community. Find an experienced, licensed, and professional therapist and explore behavioral methods to thwart the agony. Don’t worry; be happy or at least neutral.
Zozo’s breathing is still a concern. I'll write more about that at another time.
Keep on Truckin’.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Sunday, March 17, 2013
AUTO BODY OOPS
My premiere accident occurred only a few weeks after I purchased my first auto. It had taken me a couple years to save enough money to partially finance a used vehicle and procure a loan. I was so happy for the independence after riding the bus and relying upon lifts from friends. I’d had my license since the age of sixteen but didn’t buy a car for over a decade. I was so happy to locate a nice used car. The stoplight had turned amber and I was seeking to clear the intersection when the other driver decided to zoom ahead. The right front corner of my car was smashed. It took a lot of time to physically and emotionally heal from the trauma. I know that I was partially to blame for making the turn.
My second accident happened a couple years later on the highway. The car behind me hit an icy patch and crashed into my wee Toyota Tercel. The back end of my car was crumpled. I was thrown against the door and knocked out. I had incredible pain after that mishap. The car should have been totaled because it never healed properly. I really should have sued due to my injuries.
About eight years ago I was rear ended by an inattentive driver on the highway. He was in his 20s and his mother called me and left a threatening message. She stated that her brother was an insurance inspector and would check me out for fraud. I really should have reported her and sued but I didn’t. My Dodge Spirit wasn’t hurt badly but I had a mild case of whiplash.
Auto accidents are a physical and emotional pain and logistical nightmare. I am already busy and now I have to deal with phone calls, medical appointments, and paperwork. I know that I am not at fault for being rear-ended but I still have to coordinate the logistics. My anxiety has increased significantly and I practice relaxation techniques to drive during inclimate weather. I’d prefer to travel by bus to work but it’s close to two-hours travel time each direction and that probably isn’t good for my back either.
After the accident I shuffled over to my neighbor’s houses. We usually take turns clearing a path on each other’s sidewalks for the myriad walkers in the neighborhood. I informed them of the auto accident and asked if they would be so kind as to shovel for me until I felt better. They were benevolent to oblige. I will find a way to repay them in-kind. I don’t have money to hire a neighbor kid to shovel for me.
It isn’t about pride; it’s concerning self-sufficiency. I ought to be able to take care of myself and help others. I have a responsibility to assist and its uncomfortable to receive. I already have to use the food shelf and heat-share due to being poor. I keep seeking a full-time job. Numerous interviews and no employment offer. I have cut out all but bare bones necessity expenses. My savings are dwindling and I will be in mortgage default soon. Adding another stress is unsustainable. I want to scream and cry, “Why?” What the heck have I done to be thrown into this pit? This camel’s back is hurt and nearly broken.
Contributions are greatly appreciated. Please send your donation to: http://www.gofundme.com/i4ix0? Thank you ever so much!!
Poor pitiful me.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
My second accident happened a couple years later on the highway. The car behind me hit an icy patch and crashed into my wee Toyota Tercel. The back end of my car was crumpled. I was thrown against the door and knocked out. I had incredible pain after that mishap. The car should have been totaled because it never healed properly. I really should have sued due to my injuries.
About eight years ago I was rear ended by an inattentive driver on the highway. He was in his 20s and his mother called me and left a threatening message. She stated that her brother was an insurance inspector and would check me out for fraud. I really should have reported her and sued but I didn’t. My Dodge Spirit wasn’t hurt badly but I had a mild case of whiplash.
Auto accidents are a physical and emotional pain and logistical nightmare. I am already busy and now I have to deal with phone calls, medical appointments, and paperwork. I know that I am not at fault for being rear-ended but I still have to coordinate the logistics. My anxiety has increased significantly and I practice relaxation techniques to drive during inclimate weather. I’d prefer to travel by bus to work but it’s close to two-hours travel time each direction and that probably isn’t good for my back either.
After the accident I shuffled over to my neighbor’s houses. We usually take turns clearing a path on each other’s sidewalks for the myriad walkers in the neighborhood. I informed them of the auto accident and asked if they would be so kind as to shovel for me until I felt better. They were benevolent to oblige. I will find a way to repay them in-kind. I don’t have money to hire a neighbor kid to shovel for me.
It isn’t about pride; it’s concerning self-sufficiency. I ought to be able to take care of myself and help others. I have a responsibility to assist and its uncomfortable to receive. I already have to use the food shelf and heat-share due to being poor. I keep seeking a full-time job. Numerous interviews and no employment offer. I have cut out all but bare bones necessity expenses. My savings are dwindling and I will be in mortgage default soon. Adding another stress is unsustainable. I want to scream and cry, “Why?” What the heck have I done to be thrown into this pit? This camel’s back is hurt and nearly broken.
Contributions are greatly appreciated. Please send your donation to: http://www.gofundme.com/i4ix0? Thank you ever so much!!
Poor pitiful me.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Thursday, March 14, 2013
CAR CATASTROPHE
Part Two of my odyssey to health, first entry was posted on March 10th.
Day 4 after the accident I went to work. Despite the lack of sleep, the morning was okay with pain at level 6 but after lunch it spiked up. I procured a couple prescriptions, muscle-relaxer during the daytime and pain killer to sleep at night. I visited a Community Clinic and the Medical Doctor prescribed Cyclobenzaprine and Tramadol. Went in for chiropractic treatment two which consisted of acupuncture and ultrasound. She was friendlier and less stressed than during our initial meeting. All was fine until the Chiropractic Doctor, Lily, said that I might have some disc damage. I must be x-rayed to illuminate my spine. Dang nab it all!
Ventured to a local pharmacy to procure the meds. Dutifully read the instructions before consuming the medication. Tramadol has a specific warning about St. John’s Wort. I consume St. John’s Wort during the winter months to help thwart Seasonal Affective Disorder. However, I will have to stop using it when I take Tramadol. It will take 24 hours to clear my system. The pharmacist advised taking the Cyclobenzaprine one pill dosage for the first night. I consumed the pill and it made me feel slightly nauseated but I did not throw up. I made it through the darkness without too much pain. It was good to sleep.
Day 5 and I awoke feeling better. Sore and stiff from the inflammation but better than the two previous days. Lily used a lot of needles on me so they must be stimulating the right nerves. It is uncomfortable and disconcerting to lie prone on my stomach for treatment. I had the day off to focus on job search. I spoke with the owner of the massage studio. She gave me a sales pitch to return since I really didn’t like the atmosphere of the space. Day 6 returned to work, had x-rays taken of my spine, and visited to the chiropractor.
The x-rays showed my mild case of spina bifita and that arthritis is already starting to form. There is scalloping along one side of my spine DISH, which she thinks is odd. It doesn’t hurt but why only on one side? One of my lower disks is starting to shift forward and out of alignment. I have to see a neurologist, which scares me. Acupuncture is helpful, my pain level is moderate but I am still very stiff and sore. Tramadol makes me extremely thirsty and constipated.
Day 7 went to a private studio for massage. It was gentle and did not cause pain but I really didn’t feel relaxed. I could smell cigarettes on the therapist. I need to locate a different venue. Day 8 snowfall. My nice neighbor shoveled my sidewalk. Lily has forbidden me from shoveling, my cats are lazy bums, and I can’t afford to hire anyone to clear away the fluffy stuff. It sucks to be poor and in pain. Stress increased by dealing with the process of repairing my car. If I use my insurance company, I have to pay the deductible and get reimbursed. If I use Jin’s company, they will take care of it all. I mentioned the name of Jin’s company and a friend of mine convinced me that it was in my best interest to use my own company to repair the car.
Rather depressed when the chiropractor said that it would take me at least six weeks to heal with a lot of ups and downs. I don’t have medical insurance since MCHA (Minnesota Comprehensive Medical Association) costs $750 for three months. I can’t afford that right now. I’ve already been flagged with a preexisting condition. I probably will never be able to obtain regular insurance, unless the 2014 healthcare law permits it. I’d rather spend my time cleaning the house than dealing with this crap. When you consider that I hate cleaning, I absolutely abhor dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident.
Riding the roller coaster.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Day 4 after the accident I went to work. Despite the lack of sleep, the morning was okay with pain at level 6 but after lunch it spiked up. I procured a couple prescriptions, muscle-relaxer during the daytime and pain killer to sleep at night. I visited a Community Clinic and the Medical Doctor prescribed Cyclobenzaprine and Tramadol. Went in for chiropractic treatment two which consisted of acupuncture and ultrasound. She was friendlier and less stressed than during our initial meeting. All was fine until the Chiropractic Doctor, Lily, said that I might have some disc damage. I must be x-rayed to illuminate my spine. Dang nab it all!
Ventured to a local pharmacy to procure the meds. Dutifully read the instructions before consuming the medication. Tramadol has a specific warning about St. John’s Wort. I consume St. John’s Wort during the winter months to help thwart Seasonal Affective Disorder. However, I will have to stop using it when I take Tramadol. It will take 24 hours to clear my system. The pharmacist advised taking the Cyclobenzaprine one pill dosage for the first night. I consumed the pill and it made me feel slightly nauseated but I did not throw up. I made it through the darkness without too much pain. It was good to sleep.
Day 5 and I awoke feeling better. Sore and stiff from the inflammation but better than the two previous days. Lily used a lot of needles on me so they must be stimulating the right nerves. It is uncomfortable and disconcerting to lie prone on my stomach for treatment. I had the day off to focus on job search. I spoke with the owner of the massage studio. She gave me a sales pitch to return since I really didn’t like the atmosphere of the space. Day 6 returned to work, had x-rays taken of my spine, and visited to the chiropractor.
The x-rays showed my mild case of spina bifita and that arthritis is already starting to form. There is scalloping along one side of my spine DISH, which she thinks is odd. It doesn’t hurt but why only on one side? One of my lower disks is starting to shift forward and out of alignment. I have to see a neurologist, which scares me. Acupuncture is helpful, my pain level is moderate but I am still very stiff and sore. Tramadol makes me extremely thirsty and constipated.
Day 7 went to a private studio for massage. It was gentle and did not cause pain but I really didn’t feel relaxed. I could smell cigarettes on the therapist. I need to locate a different venue. Day 8 snowfall. My nice neighbor shoveled my sidewalk. Lily has forbidden me from shoveling, my cats are lazy bums, and I can’t afford to hire anyone to clear away the fluffy stuff. It sucks to be poor and in pain. Stress increased by dealing with the process of repairing my car. If I use my insurance company, I have to pay the deductible and get reimbursed. If I use Jin’s company, they will take care of it all. I mentioned the name of Jin’s company and a friend of mine convinced me that it was in my best interest to use my own company to repair the car.
Rather depressed when the chiropractor said that it would take me at least six weeks to heal with a lot of ups and downs. I don’t have medical insurance since MCHA (Minnesota Comprehensive Medical Association) costs $750 for three months. I can’t afford that right now. I’ve already been flagged with a preexisting condition. I probably will never be able to obtain regular insurance, unless the 2014 healthcare law permits it. I’d rather spend my time cleaning the house than dealing with this crap. When you consider that I hate cleaning, I absolutely abhor dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident.
Riding the roller coaster.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)