Medical Plans: Michigan Works to Increase Doctor Access

We know the value of preventive care, and how these small costs today can save you medical bill costs in the future.

But in many places, getting to a doctor is easier said than done. Many parts of the country are woefully under-served by doctors and other medical professionals. In some places patients may wait months to get an appointment. In others, the nearest doctor may be several hours drive away.

In Michigan, a state where the need for doctors who see Medicare patients and the under-insured is high, officials are taking important steps to increase medical care access for residents.

The Detroit Free Press has the details on the situation in a state where almost half of all licensed doctors plan to retire in the next decade.

The consequences of inadequate health care are well known to residents like Earl Williams., a 53-year-old who lost his health insurance when he lost his job. From the report:

“Earl Williams paid a dear price for trying to save money by stretching one month of prescription drugs into two.

His left eyelid drooped and then swelled shut. His left arm and leg got so wobbly he could “hardly walk, or hardly stand up.”

Despite this and other problems with blood pressure and prostate cancer, Williams said he had to stop seeing a neurologist. Skipping his medication and much needed visits could lead to emergency, which can be a strain on anyone and result in massive medical bills – even for folks with a job and insurance.

To bridge these gaps, Michigan is offering a host of incentives for doctors and potential doctors. The program includes:

  • Grants and medical school loan repayment to doctors working in shortage areas
  • Federal funding to improve health care facilities
  • Better coordination to assign uninsured patients to a single doctor
  • Programs to match students with training and jobs in shortage areas

However, many of these programs take time – and money – to take effect. Until they do, many people like Earl Williams may continue to struggle getting access to health care.