Hearing is an aspect of health many Gila Valley residents take for granted. But considering the lack of noise ordinances in Safford and the prevalence of mine work throughout the valley, it’s something we should all pay attention to. With prolonged exposure to 82 to 90 dB, we’re all at risk of hearing damage.
While doctors can’t reverse hearing loss, they can treat temporary symptoms by removing earwax blockages, treating ear infections, and draining fluid. They can also prevent damage from getting worse. But the cost of a hearing exam and procedures can get out of hand- and they are rarely covered by insurance.
And for those lucky enough to have insurance, high premiums, copays, and deductibles are an issue. An article published by the Arizona Department of Insurance & Financial Institutions reveals the Arizona ACA marketplace may see rate increases of 2.5% to 55.3%.
But there are solutions. Various strategies can make audiologymore affordable, including payment plans. They spread your payments over time, making them easier to manage, and many of them are interest-free for a limited time.
Factors The Fuel Hearing Loss in Gila Valley
Gila Valley residents risk hearing loss due to the following factors:
• Lack of a Noise Ordinance: Safford offers a vibrant music scene. While a noise ordinance was proposed, it was shot down by local bar owners. Changes to the law are being considered, but it’s likely the city will remain noisier than most, potentially damaging the hearing of club-goers and nearby neighbors.
• Mine Work: Gila Valley has an extensive mining history,with 641 documented mines. Mining work is among the highest-risk jobs for permanent hearing loss, with noise levels often exceeding 100dB and sometimes exceeding140dB.
• Other Common Causes of Hearing Loss: While Gila Valley is a rural community, that doesn’t mean it’s free of noise. Other causes of hearing loss can be occupational, coming from tractors and heavy machinery, or recreational, related to firearms, hunting, ATVs, and chainsaws.
The Cost of Ear Care in Gila Valley
There are various reasons you may require audiology services in Gila Valley, and they are not all related to hearing loss. Here are some common procedures and their typical costs.
• Ear Wax Removal: $50-$150
• Hearing Tests: $150-$200
• Hearing Aid Fittings: $400-$700
• Hearing Aids: $1000-$7000
• Tympanoplasty: $8,000 – $25,000
• Stapedectomy: $10,000 – $25,000 per ear
• Permanent Hearing Implant: $43,758- $46,943
Ear care can be even more expensive for Gila Valley residents due to a shortage of doctors and a need to travel to other cities for specialty care. Costs can add up when you consider possible accommodations, lost work time, and repeat visits.
A Medical Payment Plan Offers a Solution
Affording audiology care can be tough, but payment plans canhelp. They allow you to pay medical bills over time, in small amounts, instead of all at once. Spreading payments out makes them more affordable and eliminates the need to wait until you gather funds, while small problems turn into big ones.
Payment plans differ from credit cards and personal loans because many of them are interest-free, at least for a limited time. They are available to anyone, based on the following factors:
• Some have limitations regarding income and credit scores
• They must be accepted by your provider and cover your treatment
• They are available to people with insurance and can be used to cover co-pays and deductibles
What To Ask Before You Sign Up for a Medical Payment Plan
There are various payment plans available, but which is right for you? Here are some factors to consider when finding the best option.
• Interest and Fees: It is best to find a payment plan with low or no interest rates and minimal fees, including APRs and late or early payment fees.
• Monthly Payment Amounts: Ensure the monthly payment is affordable. A flexible plan will allow you to adjust payments if your income changes.
• Length of the Agreement: Both shorter and longer agreements have benefits. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
• Impact on Credit: Some credit checks may impact your credit. Find out what processes are involved to protect your financial health.
• Customer Service: Ensure there are sales reps you can call if there is an issue with your payments. Find out how easy it is to reach them.
Be aware of payment plans that offer contracts with extensive fine print, high interest rates, or pressure you to sign immediately.
How To Get Started with Your Payment Plan
Here are some simple steps to take to get started with your payment plan:
1. When you receive a bill, ask the clinic or hospital if they work with any payment plans
2. Call or visit the company website to learn about their policies, plans, and monthly payments
3. The website should offer a convenient application process. Some may not even require a credit check, while others include a soft or hard credit check as part of the process.
4. If approved, you should receive a bill within a few weeks, so you know what to pay when. Many services accept auto-payments for your convenience.
Other Ways to Save on HealthCare Costs
While payment plans can help spread payments over time, there are other things you can do to make audiology more affordable. Here are some tips:
• Seek Out Affordable Low-Cost Clinics: There are various clinics that offer low-cost services in Gila Valley. Canyonlands Healthcare is the primary network for sliding-scale clinics in the area.
• Shop the ACA Marketplace: Although marketplace rates have climbed, they may offer affordable options for some families.
• Enroll in Medicare Advantage: Gila Valley residents 65+ and over can enroll in one of 7 low-premium plans that include prescription coverage.
• Preventative Care: Preferably, health issues won’t arise in the first place. You can avoid expensive care needs with diet, exercise, and regular screenings and checkups.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): These accounts allow you to deposit money tax-free, which can be used for eligible medical expenses. The money you save on taxes can reduce medical bills by 20% to 30%.
Gila Valley families shouldn’t have to decide between their health and their budget. Medical payment plans allow you to spread payments over time when you can’t afford a lump sum. Hopefully, they can contribute to a healthier community on our farms and mines, and in churches, schools, and small businesses.
