Ignoring Your Health Costs #FinanceFriday

Ignoring your health will cost you
Ignoring your health will cost you

This is one of the hardest posts I will ever share on my blog because it is about my moments of failure. Failure, the very sound of that word alone haunts me, but it’s the most accurate word I can use to describe how I’ve treated myself and neglected my own healthcare. Six words that I want you to remember are: ignoring your health will cost you.

My kids were only 4 years old when I first noticed that I had a problem with my tooth. Initially, I went to the dentist and had my cavity filled, then days later I knew something was wrong. After visiting the dentist twice, paying for childcare, and still not finding an adequate resolution. I decided I didn’t want to go back so I did not. Yes, I just put off following up after calling my dentist about the discomfort. Then I searched on Pinterest for cavity remedies, only to stop eating on one side of my mouth altogether. The natural remedies did not fix my issue. Five years later, I finally got to the point where I could no longer ignore it. In fact, by ignoring my health I ended up paying much more than I would have if I were more attentive and took time to address the root of the problem.

Moms’ how many times have you decided to ignore your bodies signs of trouble without properly going the distance to fix what was wrong?

It’s time for us moms to put our money where our hearts are and invest in services that will keep is well, active, and healthy.

Have You Ever Justified Your Failure to Act?

Financially, not addressing something health-related can really cost you. My recent dental visits have cost me over $2000 out of pocket. One root canal, cavities refilled, and a big invoice later, I’ve learned my lesson. Therefore, I’m spreading the message that you shouldn’t wait for a problem to get worse before you address it. Instead, spend your money on routine doctor visits and follow ups as your physician recommends so costly expenses don’t bite your pockets later. After this experience, I quickly learned that being too busy to take care of myself is not an acceptable excuse. Furthermore, I have to show my daughters how to treat themselves when they become adults and have their own families. The good news is it’s never too late to start treating yourself better. In fact, in the end, it will really pay off.

“Moms who spend time taking care of themselves have greater peace of mind.”

The Preventive Care Mom Checklist

Did you know that many healthcare plans are required to cover a certain amount of preventative care options at no extra cost. This usually includes shots, routine check-ups, and common screening tests such as:

  • Anemia screening on a routine basis
  • Urinary tract or other infection screening
  • Folic acid supplements for expecting moms
  • Breast cancer genetic test counseling (BRCA)
  • Breast cancer mammography screenings
  • Cervical cancer screening
  • Pap test / Pap smear
  • STD screenings
  • Diabetes screening
  • Domestic and interpersonal violence screening and counseling for all women
  • Urinary incontinence screening
  • Well-woman visits

Women’s Health Infographic

Overall, the key is to spend money on preventative care while you still have control. Don’t wait until problems have ballooned and are outside of your reach.

Remember: Ignoring Your Health Can Cost You

Healthy living is about

Presentation, action, and financial responsibility.

What’s one financial lesson that comes to mind when you think about your health and your wealth? What’s one action you plan to take instead of ignoring your health?


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