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Issue link: https://digital.miamilivingmagazine.com/i/761418
LESSONS LEARNED First of all, from wherever you come, be aware that if you do not have a private insurance to cover your medical needs and any expenses generated by a disease or symptoms that deserve a medical visit or admission to a hospital, you have to pay cash! Also, emergency visits are not free. IS HEALTH A HUMAN RIGHT? Through the so-called "Obama Care" system, you are entitled to medical attention in the emergency room, regardless of whether you have the money to pay for it. However, if you do not pay, there are consequences. Is this what we call fundamental human rights? In the United States, not paying a hospital service is grounds for prosecution. You will not be prosecuted abroad nor will you be denied entry to the United States, but be aware that for years to come, people close to you will likely be harassed, searching for the person to take to court. If you do pay your medical bills, be aware that even medical institutions do make errors. I suggest that you carefully review all charges to ensure that no errors were made. Requesting a refund for a billing error can be an exhausting effort and lead to nowhere. It is worth mentioning that in the U.S., the doctors who receive you in the Emergency Room are so-called PAs (Physician Assistants) and often know much less about your health than you. CASH OR INSURANCE? If you plan to visit the United States, make sure your health is covered with insurance before depar ture. The administrations of the hospitals are not flexible. They have to implement the rules of pay for you to be checked or treated. If af ter a visit, the doctor suggests to admit you, you will have to pay a deposit that can jeopardize your financial situation. On the contrar y, if you are covered by your insurance, you can face any hospital administration without fear. You just have to implement the rules imposed by your insurance and wait to be refunded. GUIDELINES FOR EVERY CASE If you are feeling sick and require medical assistance, I suggest that you educate yourself on Emergency Room procedures in advance. They are defined and outlined here, which can be extremely helpful for you and your loved ones: https://www.justlanded.com/english/United-States/ USA-Guide/Health/Hospitals These guidelines will outline administrative procedures and the basic rules physicians need to take. Don't accept easy, quick check-ups, such as the one I received at Mount Sinai. Remember, your health matters most! ML