Neuro Update...and Blessings

Jake went two years (not necessarily recommended by the Neuro department) between his checkups.

Last we saw Dr. Pollack was June of 2012. At that time, everything looked good (there was some minor changes in scans, but it was so slight they weren't sure if it was just a slight different angle in the MRIs that were compared. The orders were to be scanned again in one year... however, much changed in that year. For one, Dr. Pollack, whom we adored, left KU Medical Center. And, two, we made a big move ourselves to Glenwood Springs. The transition put the "annual" checkup on the back burner.

It wasn't until a few months ago, Jake had me feel a growth in his neck. He knew it was either new, or growing, because he hadn't felt it before. Well, this put me on a mission. It was time to stop putting the scans off any longer. The internal struggle we dealt with was the cost. As amazing Glenwood Springs is, the medical costs are extreme. The valley we live in has the most expensive medical costs in Colorado. It even competes with the nation in medical costs. (Price of living in a very desirable area, I suppose.)

As my wheels began turning, I reached out to my boss. I just happen to work for a medical billing company, which is part owners with the radiology department here in Glenwood. I went to her with one question... Do we stay here and get scanned, or do we drive and hour or two for cheaper scans and be seen here in town. She took my question and rolled with it.... she helped me calculate the cost between other locations and Valley View Hospital. She also said, if we can get the radiologist charges in first (before the actual MRI charges) she would be able to write them off. What??? Not at all what I was thinking about, but WOW! What a blessing!!! So we calculated and sure enough we got all 6 of our MRI reading charges in first and she was able to write off a good portion of our max out of pocket. This means we still have the technical portion to pay for, which will still be a lot after 6 MRIs,  but it will mean one bill. Not two, professional and technical, just ONE! Amazing!!

As much as I struggle with my job... the days are long, and it's rarely fast paced, I am so blessed to have had the chance to work for such a great company and great boss. It's one of the reasons we have found ourselves Colorado homeowners, too! (It's crazy to really think about what we paid for a townhome here...)

Back to Jake... turns out, Glenwood has a phenomenal Neurosurgeon too. They paid big bucks to get him here (they figure with the outdoor activity most of the area participates in, a great neurosurgeon is so important). Dr. Miller gave Jake a good checkup, and is keeping him on annual scans. It's so hard to remember the days it was 3 month checkups....then 6 month. We have technically been on annual for about 4 years now!!! Dr. Miller still refers to Jake as an "interesting" man.... as his MRIs are filled with tumors, just not problematic tumors. What a relief! What a blessing!