National
Notes
Americans Concerned
About Chronic Ailments
 Most
Americans believe that individuals with chronic health conditions are not
getting adequate medical treatment and that Washington should take action
soon to improve their care.
According to a recent survey released by the Partnership for Solutions:
-
72% of Americans believe it is difficult for people with chronic conditions
to get necessary treatment from health care providers;
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74% believe it is difficult for them to obtain prescription drugs;
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89% believe it is difficult for them to find health insurance;
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78% believe it is difficult for them to get help from their own families.
Among those who live with chronic conditions:
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10% said that in the last year they were not able to see a primary care
physician when they felt it was necessary;
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11% said they had not been able to see a specialist;
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22% of those who reported having insurance said it does not cover all the
care they need;
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45% said the cost of their care is a financial burden;
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17% said they received contradictory information from health professionals.
In general, about 9 out of 10 Americans are in favor of government-funded
long-term care insurance, tax breaks for people who purchase private long-term
care insurance, tax breaks for caregivers, and a Medicare prescription
drug benefit.
The Partnership for Solutions is an initiative to raise awareness of
the challenges faced by adults and children with chronic conditions.
Source: PRNewswire 2-26-2001
|
MARCH
5, 2001
