Despite these trying economic times, several Miami-area doctors are reaching out to uninsured patients, offering to drastically reduce and, in some cases, offer free care to those most affected by the crisis. Nilza Kallos, a radiologist at the Breast Health Center and Diagnostic Ultrasound in Miami, is offering free mammogram screenings for women who lost their jobs and health insurance. Bernd Wollschlaeger, president of the Dade County Medical Association, and Richard Rubenstein, a dermatologist in Tamarac, both have been willing to offer lower rates for uninsured patients.
"If you donate your time, it comes back to help you," Wollschlaeger said.
Kallos believes that, especially in times like these, all doctors should be volunteering different services. While her and other doctors, like Broward County Medical Association president Tony Prieto, also are facing tough times with reduced clientèle, she says that at least she's in a position to help out others.
"The worst thing is when I hear a woman say, 'Oh, I lost my job and my insurance. I'll skip my mammograms this year,'" Kallos said. "Well, this could cost her a life."
Prieto agrees, and says that most patients shouldn't be reluctant to make a necessary doctor's visit due to costs.
"Patients who have lost their insurance should know that most doctors are willing to work with their patients, set up payment plans and give cash discounts so that the patients can still have access to care," he said.
To learn more about these charitable efforts:
- read this Miami Herald article