Charles B. Inlander, a consumer advocate and health-care consultant based in Fogelsville, Pennsylvania. He was the founding president of the nonprofit People’s Medical Society, a consumer-advocacy organization credited with key improvements in the quality of US health care, and is the author or coauthor of more than 20 consumer-health books.
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a growing shortage of doctors and nurses across America. The problem was particularly…
When the Affordable Care Act (ACA or “Obamacare”) was enacted in 2010, one of its major provisions was requiring hospitals…
Long-care insurance isn’t new, but there are recent developments everyone should know about whether you have this type of coverage or not. Read on…
Don’t assume that every test or procedure your doctor orders will be covered by your health insurance plan. Here’s when you need preauthorization…
Once we hit our 60s, 70s and beyond, our medical needs are often quite different from what they were when we were in middle age or early adulthood.
For caregivers who must take charge at a patient’s doctor appointment, the “rules” aren’t always clear. What you need to know…
Health care is vital for everyone, so it’s important to voice your concerns during this political season. Here are the best ways to be heard…
When you doctor says you have a health problem that your health or disability insurer insists isn’t “real,” it’s time to fight back. How to win…
Doctors can be good resources for referrals to medical specialists, but they are not always be objective. What to watch out for…
A trip abroad can be a vacation of a lifetime. But if you get sick or injured, the bills can be huge. Here’s the insurance that will protect you…
If you have a question for your doctor, are you sure that your phone call or email will get a response? Here’s how to ensure that you do hear back…
Until recently, the cost of hospital care was largely a mystery until you or your insurer got billed. Now, you can find out sooner. Here’s how…
When receiving medical care, you don’t expect to get a bill from a facility you didn't visit. But hospitals are doing just that. How to avoid paying…
Over your lifetime, you’ll get medical care from dozens of providers. Here’s how to keep track of all these important records…
We count on health insurance to help pay for our prescription drugs. But the new “step therapy” program can create obstacles. How to fight back…
Don’t assume “no” is the final word. Here’s how you can fight back and win your claim.
News reports on medical studies often leave people more confused than informed. Here’s how to get to the truth…
Should you be impressed when a health-care provider touts an “accreditation” and seal of approval? Here’s what all those “credentials” really mean.
Urgent care centers are springing up across the US. Here’s when you should—and should not—use one of these centers.
Health insurance companies can retain your medical records under certain circumstances. Here’s what they can do with your private health info.
