Dec 2, 2008 6:28 pm US/Eastern
4 Your Money: Elective Surgery At Year's End
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
In 2008, healthcare costs rose 6 percent over the previous year, next year they are expected to rise another 6.4 percent. Some analysts say in the next six years, healthcare costs could very well double.
Having met their heath insurance deductible for the year, many people are now scheduling elective surgeries to maximize their 2008 benefits.
One of the most popular elective surgeries is permanent birth control. At 44-years old Nayma Cardona says she has one daughter, Jonaylie Lopez, and she and her husband have decided they don't anymore children.
"I asked my doctor if my procedure was covered by insurance," Cardona told
CBS4's Cynthia Demos.
She found an elective surgery for permanent birth control covered by her insurance. Cardona said since she met her deductible this year, and with health costs going up next year, she decided to go through with the procedure.
"I pay my co-payment, $30 and that's it," said Cardona.
Cadona's doctor, Dr. Zulma Berrios, said the procedure is quick and simple. When completed tissue will grow around a micro-insert and block the tubes.
Other elective surgical procedures that are popular at year's end include vasectomies, reconstructive procedures, some cosmetic and dental procedures. Rhinoplasty is also popular.
Cardona said she's glad she went ahead with the procedure; she loves her daughter but doesn't want anymore children.
Berrios said anyone considering an elective surgery at the end of the year should check with their doctor to make sure that it will be covered by their insurance.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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