Health insurance coverage is always important in Tampa, FL, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more so. Those who are social distancing, washing their hands, disinfecting surfaces and wearing masks have a significantly lower infection rate than those who don’t take the precautions. However, since the virus is highly transmissible—that is, it spreads easily—it’s important to ensure that you have appropriate health coverage.
The costs you could face if you get COVID-19
For some people, COVID-19 is a mild or moderate illness, while others exhibit no symptoms at all. However, if you’re one of the many who require hospitalization, you could be looking at bills that average $35,000 to $45,000, depending on your age group. For someone with no insurance at all, you might be liable for as much as $73,000 or more. That staggering sum is more than most Americans make in an entire year.
When it’s all said and done, experts predict that COVID-19 treatment could cost taxpayers over $546 billion. What’s worse is that with the widespread unemployment figures thanks to the shutdown, more people than ever are without health insurance.
Why is COVID-19 treatment so expensive?
For those with mild to moderate infections, COVID-19 can usually be waited out at home. The symptoms include a dry cough, fatigue, fever over 104 degrees Fahrenheit and other, less common symptoms. Some patients describe it as a “bad flu,” while others say it’s the sickest they’ve ever been. Still, hospitalization is not usually necessary unless the patient is having difficulty breathing or shows signs of other severe complications. In that case, they’ll need to be taken to the ICU and possibly put on a ventilator.
Unfortunately, the virus doesn’t just attack the respiratory system. The coronavirus comes with severe complications, including but not limited to “acute kidney injury (AKI), elevated liver enzymes and cardiac injury including cardiomyopathy, pericarditis, pericardial effusion, arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.” Needless to say, the more complicated your case, the more likely it is that you’ll need more care in the ICU.
What to do if you don’t have health insurance
If you are one of the millions of Americans without health insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tampa, FL, there are a few things you can do. First, you can talk to an insurance agent about low-cost health coverage that could get you through the next year, or until you find employment with a better plan. If you qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, consider signing up as soon as possible.
If health care insurance in Tampa, FL is out of reach due to your current financial situation, the best thing you can do is continue to shelter in place and be vigilant about wearing masks, washing your hands and sanitizing surfaces. Try to eat a healthy diet and get lots of exercise, which will boost your immune system, and stay updated on best practices to stay healthy.
For car, life, home and boat insurance, talk to the agents at Affordable Car Insurance Tampa today.
