Today was my yearly eye appointment. I switched eye doctors this year, so Randy and I would share the same doctor and could coordinate our appointments. I got a thorough eye exam today and ordered a new pair of glasses (no line progressive scratch resistant bifocals). Fortunately, I have vision insurance. The bill was slightly less than $400 with my insurance, $850 without. Does that seem extreme to anyone? I liked the staff and know they used the best and newest equipment on me. I selected a very basic, no brand name pair of frames. I value my eyesight and am glad to be able to afford this quality care. . . but really? A fancy set of frames could have pushed it to $1000!
And don't even get me started on the cost of dental care. I also have dental insurance. Last year our dentist sent Randy to a specialist for a difficult root canal ($1500) and then he had to have a crown put on ($500 give or take). This week the entire tooth, minus some shreds came out. This was an important back tooth that "had to be saved". We are fortunate to have an HSA account for the amount not covered by insurance. What does the average person do about these kinds of costs? I know we could go to Wal-Mart for glasses and save a little. And many people give up on saving their teeth and just get dentures. But why do people have to make those kinds of choices? I am just a little overwhelmed right now at the high cost of living. On our way to the appointment today, we stopped for lunch. I commented that gas prices were going up. As we passed a gas station, the price of a gallon of petro was $3.33. After lunch (60 minutes later) the price was $3.49.
I guess I could rant and rave more, but what good would it do? It just makes me wonder where will it stop, and how are average people going to live?
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